insideSUSSEX Magazine Issue 20 - October 2016 | Page 84

TOWNSPOTLIGHT Lewes Bonfire Things to Do Lewes Castle & The Museum of Sussex Archaeology History buffs adore Lewes Castle, and with its 1,000-year history, that’s hardly a surprise! Climb to the top of this perfectly preserved Norman castle for the most breathtaking panoramic views across Sussex. As a bonus, within the adjoining Barbican House you’ll find the Museum of Sussex Archaeology. This fabulous museum houses collections from the local area dating back to the Stone Age. Visitors can even watch a film that tells the story of Lewes from prehistoric times right up to the Victorian era. Glyndebourne House Founded in 1934 by John Christie and his opera singer wife, Audrey Mildmay, Glyndebourne is committed to presenting opera of the highest quality, commissioning new work, developing new talent, and reaching new audiences. A day out at Glyndebourne includes exploring the grounds, visiting the archive and gallery, and having a picnic on the lawn. Southover Grange Gardens With free entry every day (except Christmas Day) from 8.30am until dusk, these beautiful gardens are a delight to behold. Southover Grange itself dates from the 16th century, and is actually built from stones taken from the rubble of the nearby priory. The gardens are famous for their trees, including a mulberry that has been standing for centuries. Besides these magnificent trees there are wonderful statues and plants to admire too. A café serves delicious afternoon teas. Anne of Cleves House Within the ancient walls of Anne of Cleves House, it is possible to explore just how the Tudors would have lived, worked and even relaxed in their own homes. The house itself is lovely, and includes an authentically furnished kitchen and a garden that is planted with traditional plants from the period. To make your visit even more memorable there is a café and tea garden for visitors to enjoy a rest among the pretty surroundings. Monk's House Lewes Leisure Centre There is something to be said for a leisurely swim or a good workout. They are both ideal for letting worries slide away and allowing the brain (and body) time to reset, which is exactly what you can do at Lewes Leisure Centre. Facilities include a gym, a 25-metre pool, flume, children’s pool, sauna, sunbed and outdoor athletics track - there is even a soft play area for the little ones. Dining Out Le Magasin Le Magasin is open for breakfast and lunch seven days a week, and on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, mouthwatering dinners are available too. Located right in the heart of Lewes’ Cliffe High Street, this is a local dining experience that should not be missed. An ever-changing specials board that includes a variety of vegetarian options complements the considered menu. Food available includes baked duck egg with chorizo and black pudding; fillet of sea bass with crushed potato cake, provencal tomato, gremolata and balsamic; and smoked pigeon salad. Erawan Thai Bistro This Thai bistro and takeaway is all about authenticity. Every flavour you try here is innovative and modern, yet has that unmistakeable Thai combination of sweet, spicy, salty and sour. Dishes include fried marinated tofu with Thai herbs and peanut sauce, and panang curry - a rich curry with a choice of meat slow cooked in coconut milk with lemongrass and lime leaves. Bill’s Bill’s restaurants have gone on to critical acclaim across the South East, but Lewes is where it all began back in 2001. Here you can have a relaxed and tasty breakfast, lunch, dinner (or anything in between) and there is a fabulous children’s menu too. Why not try the watermelon, paprika and sesame crusted feta cheese; the rarebit macaroni cheese; or Bill’s fish pie made with cod, salmon, smoked haddock, prawns, peas, roasted baby onions, mustard and cheddar mash. 84 Limetree Kitchen Limetree Kitchen specialises in modern European cuisine with a creativ e twist. Using only the finest locally sourced and seasonal produce wherever possible, the chefs delight in bringing the customers some of the best quality food in Sussex. Limetree Kitchen serves a lunch menu five days a week (Wednesday to Sunday), including gourmet burgers and craft beers every Sunday (the famous 'Sunday Sliders'), and an evening menu Wednesday to Saturday. Pelham House Hotel This stylish, sophisticated dining experience is one that is ideal for a special celebration or occasion. Food served in the magnificent restaurant includes roast tomato and blue cheese tart tatin with poached pear; roasted salt beef brisket with rosti potato, puy lentil, smoked confit garlic and a red wine jus; and chocolate fondant with salted caramel and honeycomb ice cream. Annual Events Lewes Bonfire // Nov Lewes Bonfire Night, or The Lewes Bonfire Night Celebrations, is one of the biggest celebrated November 5th events in the world and is held every year. There is a fabulous festival centred around the bonfire, which will this year be held on a Thursday. Octoberfeast // Oct A celebration of the culinary achievements and produce from and around the Lewes area. From street food feasts to beer festivals and pop-up restaurants, there's something to tickle everyone's tastebuds. Top Spot Monk’s House is part of the National Trust, and is certainly worth a visit. This is where Virginia Woolf once lived, and as you wander through the hallways and rooms of this pretty cottage it does invoke a feeling of wonder and awe. There are often special events running here including readings of Woolf’s work, and screen printing. Did You Know? In 1901, a memorial was erected to pardon the seventeen Protestant martyrs who were burned at the stage in Lewes during the Marian Persecutions from 1555 to 1557.