Sport & Leisure

From riverside cycle paths, spectacular paragliding sites and hikes across the South Downs National Park, we have a variety of activities, 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.

If you need any help planning an activity, please visit one of our Tourist Information Centres based in Seaford and Lewes Town where our staff will be happy to advise you.

The Battle of Lewes Walk

Follow in the footsteps of barons and kings with a walk through the historical sites of the Battle of Lewes taking in Lewes Castle and The Cluniac Priory. Held on 14 May 1264, the Battle of Lewes  resulted in the defeat of the king and is seen as an important event in the fight for democracy.

Lewes Town Partnership Cycling Route Map

Lewes is surrounded by a wonderful network of country lanes and off-road routes, leading to dozens of interesting places to visit, eat and drink. The Lewes Town Partnership has put together a handy map to guide you along the way to finding these routes.

You can pick up a copy from the Lewes Tourist Information Centre.

Follow in the Footsteps of a Local artist

A spectacular circular walk through the landscape near Seaford which inspired Eric Slater. A keen walker, Slater developed an intimate knowledge of the countryside and loved to observe the cliffs, sea and sky. You can also pick up a copy of the trail at the Seaford Tourist information Centre.

A Walk to the Sea

Here in the Lewes District we have some beautiful coastline, much of it accessible from the South Downs National Park. From Seaford Head you can walk across the downs, past the coastguard cottages onto the beach or head inland to Seaford beach for a less demanding promenade. If you fancy something more challenging, you can always take a day trip to Brighton on foot, crossing the downs to reach our neighbouring city.

The South Downs Way

The 100 mile (160 Km) long South Downs Way National Trail stretches from Winchester to Eastbourne, and follows the old routes and droveways along the chalk escarpment and ridges of the South Downs. Much of the trail passes through the Lewes District, giving unparalleled views of our beautiful and varied landscape, from rolling green hills, ancient woodlands, and breathtaking seascape.

Visit a Vineyard

Situated just 5 miles outside Lewes town is one of the most beautiful vineyards in the UK. Situated in The South Downs National Park, Breaky Bottom is an isolated farmstead set in a beautiful secluded valley. Here you will find six acres of vines and a flock of 40 ewes graze the surrounding steep banks.  If you call ahead you can arrange a visit to Breaky Bottom Vineyard which is situated in a fold in the South Downs National Park. This is a four mile walk taking in the sights of Telescombe Tye along bridleways. The route is accessible by the Brighton & Hove bus route no. 27

The Living Coast by Bike

The Living Coast is a UNESCO World Biosphere that encompasses the chalk block of the South Downs, stretching from the River Adur in the west to the River Ouse in the East, and with the city of Brighton & Hove at its heart. It’s a place where people and nature come together in a world class environment of Downs, Towns and Coast. Its mission is to connect people and nature to inspire a positive future, today. You can explore much of The Living Coast by bike.

Egrets Way

Starting at Newhaven’s Riverside Park, the Egrets Way follows the course of the River Ouse north to Lewes passing close to the villages of Piddinghoe and Southease. At Lewes it loops inland to link up with the villages of Kingston, on to Swanborough and Iford and then to Rodmell where it joins up again with the Ouse.  With a distance of around 7 miles the route takes the walker or cyclist on a journey through landscapes that are as archaeologically fascinating as they are naturally captivating.  Ancient villages, sites of special scientific interest, pubs, medieval waterways, working farms…….and a host of wildlife, not forgetting the little Egret, namesake of the routeway.

Mount Caburn

Mount Caburn, the site of an iron age hill fort and area of special scientific interest, enjoys spectacular views across the South Downs and the Ouse Valley. It's a popular walking destination, and can be easily approached from either Lewes or the village of Glynde. It's also a favourite launching spot for paragliders: book a lesson or a tandem flight with a local flying school and soar free as a bird across the landscape.

Fancy a dip?

If you're in need of a swim, or your daily fix at the gym, Wave Leisure have centres in Lewes, Peacehaven, Newhaven and Seaford. They also run a series of summer clubs and activities across the summer.

If you're in the market for al fresco swimming in a safe environment, you can find Pells Pool, the oldest freshwater open air swimming pool in the country, tucked away in a tranquil spot in the heart of Lewes Town. As well as having plenty of room to splash about, there’s a dedicated lane for serious swimmers, private changing facilities, and a paddling pool for the little ones.  While you dry off, enjoy a picnic and ice cream on the tree lined lawn or sun terrace.