Lewes Castle & Museum

26/06/2026

We're delighted to be taking part in the Government's Great British Summer Savings scheme! 🌞

This summer, you can enjoy over 10% off admission to Lewes Castle, making it the perfect time to explore over 1,000 years of history, climb the castle keep for spectacular views, and discover our fascinating museum.

Plan your visit, save on your tickets, and make the most of your summer adventures.

Book now: https://sussexpast.co.uk/our-historic-sites/lewes-castle-museum/

24/06/2026

Thinking of a visit this week?🏰

There are plenty of reasons to visit us, especially when the weather warms up. Feel the breeze at the top in the Keep Garden, take in the views from the ancient stone walls, and treat yourself to an ice cream whilst you’re here🍦

If you don’t fancy the climb or just want to take it slower, you can still enjoy the Museum of Sussex Archaeology with a museum-only ticket for just £6.00 – a great way to cool off and explore the collections at your own pace🌿

Follow the link below to learn more and book your tickets today:
https://sussexpast.co.uk/our-historic-sites/lewes-castle-museum/

21/06/2026

We are CLOSED today for a private function.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

Our sister-site, Anne of Cleves House Museum, is open as normal from 10am - 4pm, so why not take a trip into the past and learn all about Tudor history?📜

18/06/2026

Celebrating and sharing the heritage of Sussex since 1846 🏰

On this day 180 years ago, The Sussex Archaeological Society was founded here in Lewes, a town already shaped by centuries of history, and a landscape still defined by one of its most striking landmarks.

Our castle rises above the county town as it has for nearly a millennium - a Norman stronghold, a civic landmark, and a constant presence in the story of Sussex itself📖

From its founding in 1846 to the present day, the Society has worked to protect and share places like this, not as monuments frozen in time, but as living connections to the people and events that shaped Sussex.

With thanks to all who continue that work today. For Sussex, and for its story ✨

Photo of the setting up of fireworks, here at Lewes Castle on the Society's 50th Anniversary in 1896.

Celebrating and sharing the heritage of Sussex since 1846 This year marks a remarkable milestone for The Sussex Archaeological Society as we celebrate our 180th anniversary. Founded on 18 June 1846 in Lewes, the Society was born from a growing enthusiasm for Sussex’s history and archaeology. The d...

17/06/2026

CUSTOMER NOTICE:
We will be closed on Sunday 21st June due to a private function. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

16/06/2026

Happy Sussex Day!🌿

Today, we’re celebrating the history, landscapes, and communities that make Sussex so special✨

For nearly 1,000 years, our castle has stood watch over the county town, witnessing centuries of Sussex history unfold. From its Norman beginnings to the present day, it remains one of Sussex’s most iconic landmarks🏰

As a Society, we've been celebrating Sussex every day since 1846.

“All folks as come to Sussex
Must follow Sussex ways –
And when they’ve larned to know us well,
There’s no place else they’ll wish to dwell
In all their blessed days –
There ant no place like Sussex,
Until ye goos above,
For Sussex will be Sussex,
And Sussex won’t be druv.”

— W. Victor Cook, 1914

Here's to Sussex, today and every day🕰️

14/06/2026

What can archaeology tell us about life at Lewes Castle?🔎

Surprisingly few excavations have taken place within the castle, but discoveries made in and around the keep have revealed fascinating insights into its medieval past. Excavations uncovered the remains of a 12th-century hall and kitchen, later joined by a new hall and a probable chapel in the 13th century🏰

Archaeologists also found evidence of everyday life, including cooking pots, fine French jugs, and food remains from cattle, sheep, pigs, deer, rabbits, fish and oysters. Among the most intriguing finds were 48 iron arrowheads, some of which may be linked to the Battle of Lewes in 1264, when royalist forces held the castle🏹

More recent restoration work has revealed additional traces of the castle's defences, including remains of a guard tower and part of its staircase.

Every discovery helps uncover another chapter in the story here! Visit us to learn more about our history and visit our museum of archaeology to discover some fascinating finds - follow the link below to book your tickets today:
https://sussexpast.co.uk/attraction/lewes-castle/

[Image: Medieval feasting from the Luttrell Psalter, British Library]

13/06/2026

Sunshine is finally on the way!🌞

After a wet and gloomy week, this weekend is forecast to be warm and sunny, the perfect weather for a visit to our glorious castle. Come and enjoy the views, the history, and a little sunshine from the top of the keep🏰

Follow the link below to book your tickets now:
https://sussexpast.co.uk/attraction/lewes-castle/

11/06/2026

There’s something special about visiting us in the rain - the scent of rain-soaked stone, damp earth and fresh greenery fills the castle grounds, while the misty skies add a touch of drama to the landscape that has surrounded the castle for centuries☔

Inside the museum, you can stay warm and discover stories from Sussex’s past through fascinating artefacts, exhibitions and displays📜

Follow the link below to book your tickets now:
https://sussexpast.co.uk/attraction/lewes-castle/

08/06/2026

Join us for an exclusive after-hours guided tour as we celebrate the Society’s 180th anniversary✨

Enjoy a complimentary glass of bubbly on arrival from 5.00pm before the tour begins at 5.30pm. Led by expert guides, this special evening offers a unique opportunity to explore the Castle and discover the stories behind both the site and the Society🥂

🎟️£15 per person, 30 places only

Advance booking is essential. To reserve your place, email [email protected] - payment will be taken on the day.

Please note that the tour includes uneven surfaces and steps and may not be suitable for all accessibility requirements.

Follow the link below to learn more:
https://sussexpast.co.uk/event/lewes-castle-evening/