48 Hours in Lewes District

No two days are ever the same in Lewes!

If you’re staying overnight in the district of Lewes, you'll have plenty of time to experience some of the best countryside, attractions, eateries and events our area has to offer. We know you’ll want to limit the time travelling to and fro, so we’ve come up with two-day itineraries to help you split your days sensibly and make the most of your stay.

Plumpton, Ditchling & Barcombe

DAY ONE

Visit Plumpton Races

Established in the 19th Century, Plumpton Racecourse is now one of the country’s leading national hunt racecourses. They run 16 race days a year and family-friendly events which include an Easter festival. If you’re looking for a real treat for a family member, they offer special packages with fine dining and private balcony for viewing the races.

Where to Stay: Heath Farm Plumpton

Heath Farm is situated in the beautiful surrounds of the South Downs National Park. On their small, working, family-run farm there are three luxury self-catering cottages to let. The cottages share the land with free-range chickens and a flock of Beulah Speckleface sheep. The farm, which covers 35 acres, is bounded by the tiny Longford stream and is a great starting point for several walks offering stunning views.

Where to Eat: The Half Moon 

Boasting one of the biggest beer gardens in the area, the Half Moon is a two hundred-year-old, traditional country pub offering everything from a la carte to a kids menu. If you like a spot of al fresco dining or simply supping a local pint with a view of the Sussex countryside, this place is the perfect spot.

DAY TWO 

A Day by the River

Situated on the west bank of the River Ouse, The Anchor Inn is the perfect place to spend a summer’s day. You can hire a boat for a leisurely paddle up the river to Fish Ladder Falls, and once you’ve worked up a thirst, enjoy a cool pint in their beer garden or a meal cooked with seasonal produce. Places like this are where summer memories are made: ice cream, paddle boats, wildlife and a cool drink in the shade.  If you fancy a picnic by the river, the beauty spot of Barcombe Mills is just a few miles from the Anchor Inn.

Visit a Country Museum

Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft is an award winning contemporary museum which holds a permanent collection of works of artists and makers who were drawn to the village, as well as hosting special exhibitions, worshops and events. They also have a small cafe and gift shop.

Where to Eat: The Bull

Gourmet British food, inventive fusion dishes and lighter veggie fare, all cooked to order at The Bull at Ditchling. On Sundays, there’s a wide choice of traditional roasts with all the trimmings. You’ll always find a grazing board menu of dishes to share, and a dedicated menu for children
Eat in their cosy snug or soak up the views of the South Downs from the large garden.

Lewes Town

DAY ONE

A Spot of Shopping

Lewes Town is full of quirky, independent shops, so you’re sure to find some unique finds or antique treasures. From flea markets to design-led lifestyle stores, a day shopping here is a real treat. To pick up a comprehensive list of our independent shops visit the Tourist Information Centre in Lewes Town.

Where to Stay: Felix House

This bright and friendly b & b is situated in a quiet tree-lined residential road close to the centre of Lewes town. Felix House is just a 10-minute walk to the top of the High Street and a 10-minute walk to get up on to the beautiful South Downs. Perfect for couples wanting to visit historic Lewes and its rural surrounds.

A Night at the Movies

If you like a good film, you'll love the Depot cinema. A three screen, independent cinema, bar and restaurant showing a mix of blockbusters and art-house films. The Depot cinema also run special events and film seasons, so it’s worth keeping an eye on their web page for listings.

DAY TWO

A Historical Meander

Lewes is steeped in history and visits to our Norman Castle, the St Pancras Priory ruins, and Ann of Cleves House are a must. All three sites are near to each other and offer a fascinating insight into the history of the town. If you get a little thirsty on the way round you could always pop into The Rights of Man pub to enjoy a tipple of your choice in the rooftop garden, with stunning views of the castle. Just across the road at the White Hart Hotel, you will see a plaque dedicated to the town's most famous former resident Tom Paine who inspired the American Declaration of Independence, frequently visited the Inn. He also formed the ‘Headstrong club’, a debating society which met regularly in the hotel. Further up the High Street, you can also see Bull House where Paine lived while he was writing his revolutionary works.

Where to stop for lunch: The Swan Inn

There's nothing better than a good pub lunch, and the Sunday lunches at the Swan are hearty and reasonably priced. Offering a range of meat and vegetarian options, this Harvey's pub has a great atmosphere and a large beer garden. This is a popular spot and booking ahead is advised.

A Gentle Afternoon

Complete your visit to Lewes Town with a gentle ramble, coffee or swim. Lewes Town is situated close to the South Downs National Park and is a gateway to several country walks from each end of the town. It's the perfect starting point for walks over the South Downs and along the banks of the River Ouse. For a detailed guide to country walks, pick up one of the free "Lewes Walks - Town & Downs" maps from the Tourist Information Centre.

If you are short of time and want to take in some natural beauty, you could visit the Lewes Railway Land Nature Reserve which is situated a few minutes walk from Lewes railway station alongside the River Ouse. This 25-acre nature reserve boasts four different water habitats and an abundance of wildlife. Perfect for a relaxing stroll before you start your journey home.

If it's a hot day, you may want to take a refreshing dip at Pell's Pool, the UK's oldest freshwater, outdoor pool. Have a swim or simply lounge on their grass lawn with a cup of coffee, it's like heaven on earth when the weather's fine.

Seaford

Set against the backdrop of some of the most stunning coastline in the country, Seaford offers a tradional British seaside experience. In town, you can enjoy friendly and delicious tea rooms, coffee shops, bistros and independent shops. 

DAY ONE

A Day at the Beach

The beach at Seaford is peppered with brightly coloured beach huts and is full of unspoilt British charm. Ideal for taking a dip in the sea, a level stroll, cycling or simply relaxing in the sun. Here you can hire beach huts, have access to convenient public toilets and free parking! 

The water quality in Seaford Bay is regularly checked by the Environment Agency and the results are published weekly. In recent years Seaford Bay has regularly had water recorded in the cleanest categories. Seaford is classified as a rural beach and there is no lifeguard present. 

Where to eat: Frankie's Beach Cafe

In Seaford, there are plenty of lovely places to eat close to the seafront. A town favourite is Frankie's Beach Cafe, Situated on the beachfront, they serve hot drinks for cold days and ice lollies during the summer months. A really friendly bunch, they set out deckchairs for you to enjoy the magnificent view, and have created a sandpit for the little ones complete with buckets and spades.

Grayson Perry's Favourite Museum 

Situated on the seafront the Seaford Local History Museum is housed in the Martello Tower (no 74). The museum is a great day out for all ages and members of the family with displays including shops, tableaux and a fascinating collection of material from past times to the present day.

Where to Stay: Malvern House or The Buckle

A pleasant B & B that has been offering great hospitality for over 20 years. Malvern House welcome guests of all ages and many guests comment on the fantastic breakfast.

If you are looking for a romantic getaway, The Buckle offers child-free accommodation with views along the stunning coastline. 
Food is freshly prepared using only the finest and locally sourced ingredients. Drinks and light refreshments are available from the in-house bar, including local cider, beer and gin. 

A Fish Supper

The Grumpy Chef in Broad Street serves locally caught, ethical, sustainable and seasonal fish only, and is renowned for excellent service. 

DAY TWO

Take in a Stunning View

A visit to Seaford isn't complete without a trip to Seaford Head. Just a short walk from the car park at South Hill Barn takes you to a breathtaking line of chalk cliffs. Take in the magnificent views of the Seven Sisters Cliffs and the Cuckmere Valley on this beautiful walk that meanders down to the sea. 

Rockpooling in Hope Gap

Please note, the steps at Hope Gap are currently closed.  If you have little ones with you, there's nothing better on a beach holiday than a spot of rock pooling. Pack your nets and buckets and take your picnic along the public footpath down to Hope Gap. The kids will love looking for crabs, shrimps, limpets, minnows and other small creatures. It's what holiday memories are made of and it's totally free.

Time for an Ice Cream

You can't beat a good ice-cream when you're at the seaside. If you head back into Seaford Town you will find Holy Cow, a local artisan parlour creating mouthwateringly good homemade ice cream. Handmade on the premises they offer classics like strawberry, rum and raisin as well as salted caramel and maple syrup. If you are looking for dairy-free/vegan ice cream they make a delicate and velvety rose along with a rich chocolate ice cream and mango and fresh raspberry sorbets. 

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