Lewes Castle and Barbican House Museum
With a National Art Pass you get
Lewes Castle is one of the oldest Norman fortresses in England, with incredible panoramic views of Sussex from the top of the keep.
With its captivating collections, interactive exhibits, and beautiful grounds, this Lewes landmark is a must-see for visitors with an interest in medieval history or those who simply want to enjoy the stunning views.
Norman fortress
Dating back to the late 11th century Lewes Castle was built after the Battle of Hasting by William de Warenne, a supporter of William the Conqueror, serving to control the strategic gap in the South Downs.
Barbican House Museum
Adjoined to the castle is the Barbican House Museum, which showcases Sussex's archaeological and cultural heritage. Explore artefacts spanning millennia, from delicate prehistoric flints to Roman pottery and Saxon weaponry. The museum also houses a fascinating tapestry created to mark the 750th anniversary of the Battle of Lewes on 1264. Designed by Tom Walker, it took 60 local embroiderers 30 months to complete.
Model town
The museum boasts a delightful model of Lewes, providing a miniature glimpse into the town's layout, with a short film further complementing the experience. Throughout the year, the Lewes Castle and Barbican House Museum hosts talks and workshops, perfect for families looking for a fun and educational outing, and in the summer months you can also find outdoor theatre and cinema events in the grounds.
Looking for more to discover in Lewes. The castle is just a 5 minute walk from Charleston in Lewes where you can find out the Bloomsbury Group and their link to the area.
Visitor information
Address
169 High Street, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 1YE
01273 486290
Opening times
1 Nov – 28 Feb
Daily, 10am – 3.45pm
1 Mar – 31 Oct
Daily, 10am - 5.30pm Last admission 30 minutes before closing Opens at 11am on Sun, Mon and Bank holidays Closed Mon in Jan, 25-26 Dec and 1 Jan
Visitor information
Museums nearby
The more you see, the more we do.
The National Art Pass lets you enjoy free entry to hundreds of museums, galleries and historic places across the UK, while raising money to support them.