My husband and I plan to spend a day in Lewes next June. I'd like to know if the ruins of the old castle and the ruins of the old abbey are within walking distance of the town center. I'm looking for a hotel or bnb to stay at, and we won't have a car. I'd also like to visit the Gundrada Chapel in the church of Saint John the Baptist, and I'm not sure if that church is centrally located, either. Thank you for any help or suggestions.
Posted by
Tunbridge Wells
6113 posts
I visit Lewes frequently as I live 30 miles away. The castle and the priory are both located in the town centre.
I haven’t heard of the church, but using Google Maps, it seems to be in the town centre.
Sorry I can’t help with accommodation as it’s a quick day trip for me.
Posted by
Indianapolis, IN
353 posts
For questions like this, I often refer to Google Maps and under Directions select the walking icon. Several times in my trip planning I have seen locations that looked very close, but the walking directions indicated otherwise due to impassable areas, intersecting highways, etc.
Posted by
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
4126 posts
Was there in September and was impressed. Here's my Trip Report https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/trip-reports/trip-report-the-south-of-england
Everywhere is walkable in Lewes but be warned it has some steep hills. The castle is right in the town centre and the Priory ruins are in a park downhill and 10 minutes away. I'm not familiar with that church.
We stayed at the Premiere Inn and it was fine. Plenty of restaurant choices nearby. We especially liked Bill's.
Posted by
Stratford upon Avon
470 posts
Linda
Don't take Google Maps as Gospel, they don't always show the shortest walking routes
Posted by
Lincolnshire, UK
1871 posts
I've been googling and ended up somewhat confused.... St John the Baptist Church is on Southover. However Google maps doesn't mark this but instead shows a Trinity Church. Pictures of both look to be of the same church and I assume they are one and the same! The Trinity website describes it as "a vibrant and outward-looking Anglican church meeting across 3 locations and 6 congregations throughout Lewes" .
It's about a 15 minute walk between the castle and priory ruins and you pass the church on the way.
I found this leaflet about the church which you may be interested in.
Posted by
OP
45 posts
Thank you to all who replied. Some very helpful comments. I feel reassured that we'll be able to walk around and see the sights we're interested in, although it sounds like some strenuous cardio might be in order to build up our wind before we go. I loved the comment that the hills of Lewes would give San Francisco a run for its money. We are really looking forward to this visit.
Posted by
Sebastopol, California, United States
85 posts
Just going to add my voice to the ""yes" Lewes voices. I was there a year ago December and loved it.
The castle ruins are a quick walk up from the train station. It dates back to soon after William the Conqueror so there's wonderful history and great views and there's plenty left of it to enjoy. I also loved wandering through the priory ruins, another easy walk to get there.
I stayed in the White Hart Inn, which fascinated me as well with its history. Walk the Downs if you have time.
I'll be back in Lewes in May. Can't wait.