A Stroll Through Time: Discovering Lewes

Lewes, a quaint town nestled in the heart of East Sussex, is a treasure trove of history waiting to be uncovered. As a former professor of European history, I was particularly drawn to the self-guided walking tour of Lewes, which promised an intimate exploration of the town’s rich past. Armed with my trusty headphones and the VoiceMap app, my wife and I embarked on a journey that would take us through centuries of history, from medieval times to the present day.

The Echoes of the Past

Our tour began at the historic Lewes Priory Park, a site that once housed a grand Cluniac priory. As we wandered through the ruins, the audio guide painted a vivid picture of monastic life in the Middle Ages. The Priory, founded in 1077, was once one of the wealthiest monasteries in England before its dissolution under Henry VIII. The remnants of its grandeur still whisper stories of devotion and power, and I found myself lost in thought, imagining the monks who once walked these grounds.

Continuing our journey, we made a detour to Anne of Cleves House. This charming Tudor house, gifted to Anne of Cleves as part of her annulment settlement from Henry VIII, stands as a testament to the turbulent times of the Tudor dynasty. The audio guide provided fascinating insights into Anne’s life and the political machinations of the era. It was a delight to explore the house’s nooks and crannies, each corner echoing with tales of the past.

Gardens and Sculptures

Our next stop was the Southover Grange Gardens, a serene oasis in the heart of Lewes. As we strolled through the beautifully manicured gardens, the audio guide recounted the curious tale of Rodin’s sculpture, “The Kiss,” which was once controversially covered up. The gardens themselves are a testament to the town’s commitment to preserving its historical and cultural heritage, offering a peaceful respite amidst the historical exploration.

The tour then led us to Westgate Street, a charming thoroughfare lined with historic buildings. Here, the audio guide shared stories of the street’s past, from its medieval origins to its role in the town’s development. It was fascinating to see how the architecture evolved over the centuries, each building telling its own story of Lewes’ growth and change.

Castles and Churches

As we followed the path along Castle Lane, the imposing silhouette of Lewes Castle came into view. Built shortly after the Norman Conquest, the castle stands as a symbol of the town’s strategic importance throughout history. The audio guide provided a detailed account of the castle’s construction and its role in the Battle of Lewes in 1264, a pivotal moment in English history. Standing atop the castle’s keep, we were rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, a reminder of the town’s enduring legacy.

Our final stop was the TRINITY Church, St John sub Castro, a site steeped in history and spirituality. The church, with its unique architecture and ancient graveyard, offered a poignant conclusion to our historical journey. The audio guide shared stories of the church’s past, from its Saxon origins to its role in the community today.

As we concluded our tour at the Pells Recreation Ground, I reflected on the wealth of history we had uncovered in just a few short hours. Lewes, with its rich tapestry of stories and sites, had offered us a glimpse into the past, a journey that was both enlightening and deeply satisfying. For those with a passion for history and a love of exploration, the Lewes Walking Tour is an experience not to be missed.