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A mini guide to
Lewes and the Seven Sisters: tips and FAQs
Local know-how and common questions
Local know-how
Tips for visiting
Combined ticket in Lewes
The Sussex Archaeological Society sells a combined ticket for Lewes Castle and Anne of Cleves House, cheaper than buying both separately.
Book Monk's House
Pre-booking is essential, even for National Trust members. The house is closed for the season and reopens on 26 March 2027.
Stay back from the cliffs
The chalk cliffs are fragile and can fall without warning. At Birling Gap the beach is reached by a staircase of 50 steps.
Parking at Birling Gap
The National Trust car park is pay and display (free for members and Blue Badge holders); coach parking is no longer available.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where is Lewes and the Seven Sisters?
Lewes and the Seven Sisters is in The South Downs, England. Lewes Castle and Anne of Cleves House, the Bloomsbury houses, Alfriston and the white cliffs from Cuckmere Haven to Beachy Head. Nearby stops and stations include Lewes, Southease, Coaster 12, 12X and 13X.
How long do I need in Lewes and the Seven Sisters?
A day for Lewes; another for the Cuckmere valley and the cliffs. Allow longer if you plan to eat out or visit several attractions.
What are the highlights?
Highlights include Lewes Castle, Anne of Cleves House, Lewes Priory. See the Things to do page for more.
How do I get there?
Nearby: Lewes (Southern trains); Southease (Southern trains); Coaster 12, 12X and 13X (Brighton & Hove buses). The Getting there page links to the official timetables and journey planners.
Where can I eat and drink?
We list 11 places to eat and drink in and around Lewes and the Seven Sisters, with filters to help you choose.
Where should I stay?
We list 3 hotels and other places to stay nearby. Check availability and prices with each property.
Is Lewes and the Seven Sisters accessible?
Accessibility varies by street, building and venue. Check each attraction or operator’s access information before you travel.
While you are here
Things to see in Lewes and the Seven Sisters
A few of the sights in the area. The Things to do page lists them all, with directions and official links.
Anne of Cleves House
Timber-framed 15th-century house given to Anne of Cleves after her marriage to Henry VIII ended; Tudor kitchen and garden.
Lewes Priory
Ruins of the Priory of St Pancras, founded in the 11th century by William de Warenne and dissolved in 1537, with a herb garden.
Southover Grange Gardens
Public gardens of a house built in 1572, in the centre of Lewes; they host events from theatre to beer festivals.
Photo credits
- Beachy Head: Ian Stannard from Southsea, England, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Anne of Cleves House: Charlesdrakew, Public domain, source
- Lewes Priory: JohnArmagh, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
- Southover Grange Gardens: Antiquary, CC BY-SA 4.0, source
- Midhurst and Petworth: Martyn Pattison, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under the licences shown. All photo credits
Keep exploring The South Downs