Things to Do

Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, history or culture we have plenty of events, attractions and activities to keep you busy.

If you are looking for a break from city life, you could take a ramble across the South Downs, or hire a bike, stopping for a rest in one of our tea rooms or inns. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.

On a family adventure, we have lots of activities and attractions to keep the little ones occupied. Unlock the hidden secrets of Newhaven Fort, take a dip in the world’s oldest outdoor lido at Pells pool or visit one of our working farms and meet the animals or simply paddle in the sea with an ice-cream. Whatever the weather, we’ve got you covered with indoor or outdoor activities to keep the whole family in the holiday mood.

Did you know that the district of Lewes was once home to the Bloomsbury group, Tom Paine and the setting for the Battle of Lewes? Our area is steeped in history and culture with historic country houses, a Norman Castle and the former home of Virginia Woolf at Charleston. Not only can you visit these historic properties, they also hold events throughout the year so you can really make a day of it. With a world-class opera house at Glyndebourne, independent cinemas and a wealth of small art galleries and quirky museums; whatever your interests or budget, you’re sure to be inspired.

Take a look below at our suggested itineraries for 24 hours, 48 hours, or a week in Lewes District and take some inspiration from us.

Alternatively, have a browse at some of our highlighted attractions, or attractions by area and create your own unique visit. We’re sure you’ll find lots of wonderful things to see and do.

Inspiration

24 Hours in Lewes District

Take a look at our 24 hour itinerary to find the must-see places in the district and plan a perfect way to spend your day.
48 Hours in Lewes District

What to do with 48 hours in the district of Lewes
1 Week in Lewes District

What to do on a week's holiday in Lewes District
Lewes Castle & Barbican House Museum

"You can see Lewes lying like a box of toys under a great amphitheatre of chalky hills." So wrote William Morris, one of the many to comment on the idyllic setting of this historic town.
1. 1 Jan 000131 Dec 9999
2. 1 Jan 201931 Dec 2019
3. 1 Jan 202031 Dec 2020
Lewes Depot

Depot is an award-winning independent 3-screen cinema and café-restaurant. It is located adjacent to the railway station in the centre of Lewes, East Sussex, within the South Downs National Park.
1. 1 Jan 201931 Dec 2019
2. 1 Jan 000131 Dec 9999
3. 1 Jan 202031 Dec 2020
Seaford Community Cinema

Seaford Community Cinema is a volunteer run, not-for-profit organisation that relies on a team of volunteers and your ongoing support to maintain a diverse and exciting programme.
1. 1 Jan 201931 Dec 2019
2. 1 Jan 000131 Dec 9999
3. 1 Jan 202031 Dec 2020
Outdoors

From riverside walks, coastal routes and hikes across the South Downs National Park, we have a variety of terrains and views for you to enjoy. You can also explore the cultural landscape with specially themed history and art walks as well as taking in some of our local vineyards and eateries.
Chalk Gallery

A contemporary art gallery selling original art and one of the leading artist-run galleries in the UK.
1. 1 Jan 202031 Dec 2020
2. 1 Jan 000131 Dec 9999

Highlights