Hotels in Lewes

Lewes Hotels

Lewes is a bustling market town set in the southern county of Sussex. Nestled in the rolling Sussex South Downs, Lewes boasts wide streets lined with redbrick townhouses that lead to white-stone churches and rocky castle ruins. Lewes maintains much of its old-world heritage, with outdoor markets being held regularly, where fresh locally-sourced produce lines up beside vintage clothing and curious trinkets. With a welcoming charm, and close proximity to the seaside, Lewes makes for a relaxing urban getaway.

Things to see

Begin your peaceful day in Lewes by paying a visit to its many historic landmarks. Begin at Lewes Castle, a medieval chalk-stone ruin that sits atop a green grassy bluff. Tour its captivating courtyards and climb its smooth stairs to the top of its towering turrets, where you’ll be rewarded with a crystal-clear view over Lewes’ red-roofed houses and out to the sloping South Downs. After, visit the nearby Anne Of Cleaves House - a timber-framed 15th century hall house - where the interior is playfully period-designed to transport you back to the Tudor times. As the afternoon rolls around, immerse yourself in Lewes’ contemporary culture. Explore the sprawling outdoor market, and hunt for a rare bargain, before taking in the contemporary local artwork often on display at the town hall. In the evening, ramble around Lewes’ many pubs and inns, which showcase regular toe-tapping live music.

Hotels in Lewes

Central Lewes hotels offer splendid 3-star accommodation, with large rooms set in huge white-washed buildings and historic red-walled inns. These hotels provide attentive service, soft beds and modern amenities - including complimentary WiFi and HD television - making for a convenient, comfortable and affordable stay. Hidden in the luxuriant forests of the surrounding South Downs, a handful of refined 4-star lodges and park hotels offer lavishly indulgent accommodation set amongst well-maintained flower-lined grounds. For cheaper accommodation with easy beach access, 2-star hotels and hostels in the greater Brighton area make for a brilliant budget holiday.

Where to stay

Central Lewes blends an old-fashioned town vibe and natural beauty with just the right touch of urban energy. Days can be spent ambling along the shimmering River Ouse, spotting the green flash of rare kingfishers, before retiring to the buzzing high street. For a romantic getaway in a tranquil village-setting, stay in nearby Rottingdean, which boasts vast stretches of pristine, uncrowded beachfront and perfectly preserved Tudor houses. If you’re seeking to inject some electrifying energy into your holiday, stay in the nearby beachfront city of Brighton, which thrums with quirky counterculture and neon-washed nightlife.

How to get to Lewes

Lewes Station provides hourly speedy services to London, and many regular services to the surrounding towns and cities, such as Brighton and Seaford. Catch a connecting train at London Victoria for destinations throughout the country. Alternatively, arriving by car is easy, and the pleasant country drive proffers from unforgettable views across the grassy hillocks and dense forests. Follow the M23 motorway south, and adjoin the A22 or A23, which will gently meander its way into central Lewes. Once there, the many buses makes getting around a breeze, but why not rent a bicycle and glide through the streets.