Lewes, in Sussex, England, is a small town known for its rich history, stunning views and its lively culture. It boasts a beautiful countryside, with plenty of rolling hills, chalk streams and ancient woods. The High Street has kept its traditional shops and small businesses, mixed with trendy restaurants, bars and independent stores. Lewes also hosts a wide array of cultural and entertainment offerings, such as theatres, galleries and live music venues.
1. Lewes parks and places for a walk on a first date
Lewes offers plenty of beautiful parks and places for a first date walk. Immediately outside the town centre is Lewes Castle, an 11th century fortress situated on top of Mount Harry, from which you can take in sweeping views of the town and the surrounding countryside. If you’d prefer a more relaxed stroll, Anne of Cleves House offers tranquil gardens and a pleasant riverside walk. Glynde Place is a country estate with a lake and a variety of scenic walks. For a longer walk, the South Downs National Park offers miles of trails and breathtaking views.
2. Places for a coffee date in Lewes
Lewes has its fair share of charming cafes where you and your date can eave a cozy conversation. The Depot is a great option, tucked away in the courtyard of Lewes Castle, offering a tranquil setting over tea and cake. The London Inn is a historic pub full of character, serving light snacks and drinks accompanied by live music. The Cliffe is a great cafe on Cliffe High Street with an extensive menu and a pleasant courtyard. For more of a non-traditional coffee date, you can take a tour of the Lewes-based Billington’s Chocolate Factory and enjoy a few samples of their delicious products at the end.
3. Lewes galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Lewes is full of interesting attractions which invite exploration. The Lewes Museum offers a glimpse into Lewes’ 500-year history, with displays of local artwork and artefacts. The Towner Art Gallery and Barbican House Museums are also worth visiting for their best collections of modern paintings and sculptures. The Lewes Arms hosts a variety of art exhibitions and live events, from short films to plays and comedy.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Lewes
Lewes has a vibrant live music and entertainment scene which you can enjoy on a first date. The Lewes Arms hosts regular live music events, from acoustic gigs to larger events featuring local and international acts. The All Saints Centre is another great venue, featuring everything from plays and operas to spoken word and jazz. The Royal Oak is renowned for its traditional folk music nights, and the Pig in Paradise offers a great selection of blues and jazz.
5. Lewes pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Lewes has plenty of traditional pubs, trendy bars and delicious eateries to offer a first date drink or food. The Spread Eagle is an iconic pub with a great selection of ales and real ales. The Snowdrop Inn, a charming 16th century pub, serves up traditional English dishes in an idyllic setting, whilst the Bull Inn offers a range of bar snacks, beers and wines. The Black Horse is a gastropub with an excellent selection of locally-sourced dishes, and The Cliffe is a great cafe offering a wide range of speciality coffees, teas and cakes.
6. Other date ideas to try in Lewes
Lewes offers plenty of other date ideas to try. The Depot Cinema shows independent, foreign and retrospective films, and hosts live events such as karaoke and comedy nights. The River Ouse runs through the town and you can hire a canoe or paddleboat for an hour or two. The South Downs Way is a great place for mountain biking or a guided tour. The Elephant and Castle offers an array of outdoor activities such as archery and axe throwing. A guided ghost tour of the town is also a great option for a unique and spooky experience. Or why not head to the beach at Seaford or Newhaven, just a few miles away, and enjoy a romantic sunset stroll.
