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Keeping Lewes special

Friends of Lewes is the civic society of the historic town of Lewes.  A Council for British Archaeology 1965 paper included Lewes in a list of 51 historic towns which are “so splendid and precious that ultimate responsibility for them should be a national concern”. Friends of Lewes aims to keep Lewes special.  We have played a major part in ensuring that this is the case.

In 2024 The Telegraph gathered together a group of travel experts to rank towns across the country based on a number of factors, from shopfront aesthetics and historic architecture to traffic levels, litter volume and the number of viewpoints. Each town was then given a score out of 50. Top of the ranking was Lewes. Our town got an overall score of 46 thanks to our medieval history, quirky cobbled streets, panoramic views of the South Downs and the beautiful eleventh-century Priory Park. 

Who are Friends of Lewes

Friends of Lewes is a registered charity with over 400 members. Our goal is to conserve and enhance the key aspects of the town – its history, distinctive buildings and the natural environment.

We aim to work with others to ensure that, when changes to buildings or streetscape are proposed, the unique heritage of our town is treated with care and respect.  We seek to influence other bodies and agencies for the benefit of those living and working in our town. Read more…

What we do for Lewes

Our activities have played a major part in ensuring that Lewes retains its special character despite constant pressure to develop the town.  We consider all planning applications affecting Lewes.  We also undertake or support or help to fund projects to conserve and enhance the character of the town.  We organise meetings and talks on matters of interest relating to Lewes throughout the year.  Events are listed in the Diary.  We write and sponsor publications about the town.

Our activities centre on both the Built Environment, and the Natural Environment.

 Please Join Us

If you share our ideals and values, we invite you to become a member, whether you live or work in Lewes or just enjoy visiting our town. You may also like to help on one of our volunteer committees.