Discover Lewes: A Historic Market Town in the South Downs National Park
Based in the heart of the South Downs National Park, Lewes is well known for its bonfire celebrations as well as its traditions of radicalism and creativity. East Sussex’s county town enjoys a splendid location just under 10 miles from Brighton and nearly 70 from London, making it popular with commuters. There’s a gorgeous old centre, and plenty of period homes to be found across town, from Victorian and Georgian to Edwardian, among the tiny twittens (alleyways) and medieval streets.

The Rich History of Lewes: From Saxon Origins to Radical Traditions
Lewes was probably founded in the sixth century as a Saxon village; its name is likely to come from a Saxon word. By medieval times it was a fair-sized market town, gaining a charter in 1148. The Normans built a castle here, with Franciscan friars arriving in the 1400s.
Lewes’s history as a hotbed of radicalism dates back to 1772, when one Thomas Paine argued for better conditions for excise officers, which got him sacked. (He went to America, inspiring the American and French revolutions, when his protest was rebuked.)
Lewes grew rapidly in the early nineteenth century and the railway arrived here in 1846. The area became a borough in 1881.
Lewes Local Amenities: Markets, Shopping, and Dining
Lewes’s local markets are popular, offering everything from handmade goods to fresh produce. There’s also a nice combination of indie boutiques and High-Street favourites for when you’re in need of a spot of retail therapy. You’ll also find some late-opening bars, although Brighton is on the doorstep if you’re after a big night out.


Free Time in Lewes: Bonfire Celebrations, Arts, and Outdoor Activities
There’s a huge amount of things to do in vibrant Lewes, from the local beaches to the nearby South Downs National Park. The Star Brewery Gallery hosts exhibitions from local and non-local artists, there are various music venues if you love live gigs, and the Lewes Bonfire Night is legendary, with a brilliant atmosphere. If soaking up local history is more your thing, head to medieval Lewes Castle. Meanwhile, the Depot cinema screens independent and foreign movies and has a café, courtyard and gallery. Plus there’s a decent range of restaurants and pubs where you can enjoy a meal out.
Lewes Transport Links: Fast Access to Brighton, London, and Gatwick
There are six services an hour to Brighton, which takes around 15 minutes, plus direct lines to Gatwick (35 minutes) and London Victoria (75 minutes). You can also reach Eastbourne and Hastings by train. The A27 is the main road through town, and you can drive to Brighton within half an hour. Buses connect Lewes with Brighton and Tunbridge Wells.

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A selection of our most recent properties for sale in Lewes
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Dyke Road, Brighton BN1 3GZ
For Sale1 Bedroom1 Bathroom1 Reception£320,000A beautifully presented one-bedroom apartment forming part of the sought-after Cawthorne House development, ideally positioned just moments from the vibrant Seven Dials. This stylish and spacious home stands out as one of the largest one-bedroom layouts in the building.Finished in a crisp white déc... -
Ovingdean Road, Ovingdean, Brighton
For Sale4 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms3 Receptions£975,000Set behind electric gates and nestled within beautifully established gardens, this splendid character cottage exudes charm and timeless appeal. Arranged over three levels, the property offers a wealth of period features and thoughtfully updated living spaces, making it a truly unique and picturesque... -
Southover High Street, Lewes BN7 1HT
For Sale2 Bedrooms1 Bathroom1 Reception£750,000Step into the charm of historic Lewes with this truly unique and beautifully presented two-bedroom detached character home, tucked away in one of the town’s most iconic and picturesque locations.East Lodge is a stunning converted former lodge house, nestled just off Southover High Street behind an...
A selection of our most recent properties to let in Lewes
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Mount Street, Lewes BN7 1HL
Let Agreed1 Bedroom1 Bathroom1 Reception£1,200 pcmOne-Bedroom House in the Heart of Lewes – Available End of May 2025Situated in a sought-after residential area, this delightful one-bedroom house on Mount Street offers comfortable living just moments from the historic town centre and Lewes mainline station.The property features a bright living ro... -
Downs Close, Lewes BN7 1DL
Let Agreed1 Bedroom1 Bathroom1 Reception£925 pcmA one double bedroom ground floor flat offering spacious living throughout and located in the favoured Walland’s area of Lewes.Accommodation comprises, entrance hallway with storage cupboard, spacious living/dining room with build in storage cupboards, good size kitchen with plenty of worktop and ... -
Eastbourne Road, Halland
Let Agreed5 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms3 Receptions£2,100 pcmSet in the picturesque village of Halland, this substantial five-bedroom detached bungalow offers generous and versatile accommodation ideal for family living. Surrounded by wrap-around gardens and set on a large plot, the property enjoys a peaceful, semi-rural setting while remaining conveniently c...
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