Things to do in Sussex this Christmas and New Year – a family day out at Lewes Castle

Looking for family days out between Christmas and New Year in Sussex? Take a trip to Lewes Castle, one of the oldest Norman fortresses in the country, to explore the history and heritage of Sussex.

With the presents all unwrapped and Christmas leftovers almost gone, finding things to do with the family between Christmas and New Year can often be difficult. Many attractions are closed and countryside walks are not always accessible to people of all ages.

For a day out in the open air which can by all the family, why not try visiting Lewes Castle this Christmas and New Year?

The site is open from December 27 through to New Year’s Eve from 10am to 4pm. It closes on New Year’s Day and reopens on January 2.

Adult tickets are £10 and children aged five to 17 are £5.50. A family ticket for two adults and up to four children is just £26.

Those who chose to Gift Aid their admission will receive an annual pass, which grants free entry for 12 months. Full details on Gift Aid here.

Why visit Lewes Castle between Christmas and New Year?

Lewes Castle is located in the heart of the East Sussex county town of Lewes. It is reached easily by public transport, with bus stops and Lewes train station a short walk away.

Climb the steps to the top of this 1,000-year-old fortress for beautiful 360-degree views of the county town of Lewes, with the South Downs and sea beyond.

Discover how and why this castle was built by followers of William the Conqueror after the Battle of Hastings.

Then, try and spot the hidden mound which housed the town’s first Norman fortress more than 950 years ago.

There’s plenty of games and activities in the towers and the gun garden to keep people entertained for an hour or two.

And, if it starts to rain, you can discover more about the history and archaeology of Lewes and Sussex in the adjoining Museum of Sussex Archaeology.

The exhibits feature items covering thousands of years of Sussex history, as well as the temporary exhibition celebrating 175 years of The Sussex Archaeological Society.