Our pick of Autumn activities in and around Lewes
Tucked neatly into the South Downs, the town of Lewes was founded in the 6th century. It is thought that the word Lewes was derived from the Saxon word “hluews”, meaning slopes or hills. If you have ever walked up the high street, you will know the name is quite fitting.
The neighbouring rolling hills are exquisitely offset by the medieval streets, lined with independent galleries, antique shops, and cosy cafes to name just a few.
Take a look at our recommendations for the five best things to do in Lewes this Autumn.
Glyndebourne
Where better than to start with the fabulous 600-year-old Grade II listed English country house, which has been the venue for the annual Glyndebourne Festival Opera since 1934.
The music loving landowner John Christie began to host opera evenings in the inter-war years, which eventually led to a theatre being built on the grounds of the medieval house. The theatre was enhanced in 1992, making it a modern performance venue seating 1,200.
The Glyndebourne Festival is now internationally renowned, with six productions per season. The summer Festival runs from May to August, and backstage tours are available from November to March.
Glyndebourne is not only famed for its outstanding performances but its special 80-minute interval. This gives spectators plenty of time to relax and enjoy a picnic on the lawns.
More information here: glyndebourne.com
Lewes Castle
Lewes Castle is a hidden gem in the centre of Lewes town. This motte-and-bailey castle is from the Norman era, being built within three years of the Battle of Hastings (1066). For most of the Medieval period, the castle was controlled by the Earls of Surrey, descendants of the nobleman William de Warenne who fought at the battle.
The castle is unusual, being built on not one but two mounds. It has been reinforced throughout the years, and you can climb the chalk blocks to this day (it is steep, you have been warned!). However, your efforts will be worthwhile, as you are rewarded with stunning views of Lewes, the South Downs, and the bright chalk cliff at Cliffe Hill.
The foot of the Castle proudly displays its barbican, or outer defence wall, which is considered one of the best of its kind surviving in England.
Check it out here: sussexpast.co.uk
Charleston
Just East of Lewes you can find Charleston, a farmhouse, garden, and art gallery. Artist couple Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant chose this large farmhouse in the village of Firle as their country home in 1916. Over the next 50 years, the house would be a meeting place for the Bloomsbury group, a collective of forward-thinking writers, artists and intellectuals including the renowned Virginia Woolf and T. S. Eliot.
Bell and Grant were two of the leading English painters in the first half of the 20th century, which is reiterated in the walls, and unique fittings and furniture of Charleston. The art collection found here contains paintings by Delacroix, Picasso, Renoir, and Derain to name a few. There are also short-term exhibits by well-known contemporary artists hosted here.
During WWII Charleston was left unkempt, however, the walled garden has been restored to its former glory. It is definitely worth a visit to see it in full bloom. Don’t forget to stop off at The Threshing Barn café in the newly renovated 18th Century farm buildings for a bite to eat.
More information here: charleston.org.uk
Anne of Cleves House
This beautiful timber-framed medieval house was not actually lived in by Anne of Cleves but was part of the divorce settlement from King Henry VIII. The museum at the Wealden Hall house includes atmospheric furnished rooms so you can feel what living in the 1400’s would have been like.
The galleries demonstrate Sussex trades in times past such as iron-making, represented by a hammer from the forge in Etchingham. The Tudor garden is perfected with traditional species and plants found of the time. If you visit at the right time of year, you can witness magnificent swallows swooping in and out of their nests in the eaves of the house. There is also a café / tea room for you to enjoy a drink in the beautiful setting, as well as gorgeous homemade jams.
You can get combined tickets for Anne of Cleves House and Lewes Castle, making for a historic day out!
Check it out here: sussexpast.co.uk
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Exploring the South Downs
Lewes sits directly within the South Downs, and proudly displays its chalk hills. The South Downs National Park is the newest of the UK’s 15 National Parks, being officially designated on 31st March 2010. It is home to a number of globally important habitats, including the incredibly rare lowland heath, and is home to a number of rare species, including the Adonis blue butterfly that thrives in chalk grassland.
The best way to explore the South Downs is definitely on foot, bike, or horseback. Walks from Lewes can take you to Southease, downriver on the Ouse, crossing the scenic Blackcap Hill on the way. This is just one of the many routes you can spend hours exploring.
The Grain Store is situated just outside of Lewes within the South Downs National Park. Turn left out of our gates and you will find yourself on a bridleway leading up to the South Downs Way trail. We love being situated in the South Downs, and are lucky enough to see incredible wildlife from our back door.
One of the best things about the South Downs, is that they are there to enjoy all year round whatever the weather!
Discover more at southdowns.gov.uk
For more suggestions of things to do in and around Lewes, take a look at our Plan Your Visit page. We also provide tips and recommendations of our favourite things in our Welcome Pack. Whether you are a history buff, a cultural connoisseur, or budding explorer, there is something for everyone in Lewes.
Your South Downs staycation awaits
Set in the heart of the National Park, The Grain Store Lewes is an ideal base from which to explore the South Downs. To secure your booking or if you’d like any further information about The Grain Store and things to do in the area, contact our team: