There is a unique feel to Lewes. Wander down its cobbled streets and you might find an art exhibition or a book reading in one of the town’s beautiful little stores. Browse the antiques stores with room after room of treasures; and the array of design-led shops where stunning artist-created objects line shelves alongside housewares, bodycare and textiles. Then find a cafe to settle in, have a cup of tea and compare purchases before heading off again to explore.

As our local town, we know and love Lewes, and have built wonderful relationships with so many artisanal creators who call it home. In our humble view, you could spend a week exploring its streets and quirks; and still stumble upon something surprising. But we want our guests to have time to rest and relax; and there are so many places to see in Sussex.

Here is our guide to what you can do in 24 hours in Lewes.

Breakfast before browsing

It will be a hard task but you must wander past many a beautiful storefront to get to The Flint Owl Bakery on the High Street. Absolutely nothing nasty goes near the doughs created by the team and the breads are all baked in small batches. Our breakfast tip is an almond croissant and cup of tea. If the weather is lovely, sit outside in the bakery’s courtyard garden but there are also seats inside where the aromas are so delicious that it will be hard to leave.

Treasure hunting

Wander down the High Street from the bakery towards the River Ouse, past the Harvey’s Brewery (which does superb tours) and onto Cliffe High Street where you will find a cluster of antique shops. They might look tiny from the outside but you can easily disappear inside and emerge hours later. Every surface is covered in trinkets, baskets, plates, cups, toys, clothes - anything you can imagine. Give yourself time to explore. If you don’t find something that makes your soul sing, you can always head back up the hill later in the day to visit Lewes Flea Market on Market Street. This grand building has suits of armour standing sentinel at the windows, guarding the treasures inside. Look out for what appears to be a submarine door.

Lunching in Lewes

It’s definitely time to refuel now; and Lewes has a beautiful mix of restaurants and cafes. A hidden favourite is Cafe du Jardin, which is tucked away behind Pastorale Antiques on Malling Street. It was a generous tip from Sussex author, Ellie Seymour, that led to its discovery for us and the menu has kept us going back. Steak frites is on the top of the list but we are also often tempted by the quiche or sweetcorn fritters.

Storm the castle

Feeling content and full, wander back past the antique shops and then up the High Street. Do take time to visit some of the independent shops that Lewes is so lucky to be home to. Freight, Closet & Botts and Nørd are among our favourites. We stock Freight’s Vetiver & Oakmoss Collection in The Grain Store and their selection of beautiful things in store is utterly inspiring.

At the top of the hill is Lewes Castle, looking down on a town that has changed beyond recognition since its first stones were laid down 950 years ago. Explore The Keep but also leave time for the adjoining Museum of Sussex Archaeology. In the summer, the castle gardens are filled with blooms so this is also a perfect spot for a picnic.

Dinner date

In a building that is a wonder of glass and light is Lewes’ cinema - the Depot. As well as showing films that are winning plaudits in Hollywood, this is a space where independent films are also celebrated. Depot hosts Homegrown each month, handpicking British independent creations that show the diversity and skill present across the industry. The cinema also hosts a Supper Club, which pairs a carefully selected film with a meal crafted to bring its location and themes to life. The Depot’s restaurant is a superb option but there are so many wonderful alternatives across the town.

Tiny but breathtakingly innovative is Dill on South Street. This restaurant champions local suppliers and creates seasonal plates that are served family-style. It has claimed a place in the Michelin Guide, and rightly so. If you are visiting Lewes in the latter half of the week, Elisa Furci has brought together her New York and Italian heritages at Caccia and Tails. You must try the Focaccia Genovese (and take one or two home as well).

After a busy but perfect day of eating and exploration, we know you will have a full stomach and a contented mind. You can now head back to The Grain Store Lewes for a rest and what we promise will be a beautiful night’s sleep.