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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Priory Street, Lewes, BN7 1HH
For Sale4 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms1 Reception£700,000 Guide PricePrice Guide £700,000 - £750,000A beautifully presented four bedroom period home situated in the highly desirable Southover area of Lewes, close to the mainline railway station, Grange Gardens and the historic town centre.Arranged over three floors and offering approximately 1,310 sq ft of ... -
Winterbourne Close, Lewes, BN7 1JZ
For Sale3 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms1 Reception£500,000*** GUIDE PRICE £500,000 - £550,000 ***An extended and well-presented three double bedroom semi-detached home, positioned within a cul-de-sac in the popular Winterbourne area of Lewes and offering generous accommodation arranged over three floors.The ground floor has been opened up to crea... -
Valence Road, Lewes, BN7 1SL
For Sale3 Bedrooms1 Bathroom1 Reception£450,000*** GUIDE PRICE £450,000 - £500,000 ***A characterful three bedroom semi-detached home, tucked away within a quiet cul-de-sac and conveniently positioned for Lewes town centre, the mainline railway station and access to the surrounding South Downs.The ground floor accommodation includes an...
A selection of our most recent properties to let in Lewes
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Kingston Road, Lewes, BN7 3NB
Let Agreed3 Bedrooms1 Bathroom2 Receptions£2,250 pcmOakfield is delighted to offer this attractive semi-detached home, originally built as a nurseryman's cottage and tucked away within the peaceful cul-de-sac of Milldown, situated off the popular Kingston Road on the south-west outskirts of Lewes.Full of character, the property combines original feat... -
Deanland Road, Golden Cross, Hailsham, BN27 3RJ
To Let4 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms2 Receptions£2,500 pcm** 50% OFF FIRST MONTHS RENT ** - This impressive four-bedroom semi-detached home is one of just six newly built properties situated within a private road, offering spacious and versatile accommodation perfectly suited to modern family living.Upon entering, you are welcomed by a generous entrance ha... -
Golden Cross, Hailsham, BN27 3RJ
To Let4 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms2 Receptions£2,500 pcm** 50% OFF FIRST MONTHS RENT ** This impressive four-bedroom semi-detached home is one of just six newly built properties situated within a private road, offering spacious and versatile accommodation perfectly suited to modern family living.Upon entering, you are welcomed by a generous entrance hall...
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