Exploring Lewes: 8 Pubs, 10 Pints, and Stunning Views – A Perfect Pub Crawl
Travel > England > East Sussex > Lewes
17/07/2024
Lewes, East Sussex
Embarking on an unforgettable pub crawl through the historic town of Lewes, our group set out for a night of camaraderie, laughter, and pints. Starting straight out of the Lewes train station, we visited eight charming pubs in the following order: The Lansdown Arms, The Royal Oak, The Brewers Arms, Rights of Man, The Lewes Arms, Elephant & Castle, The Volunteer, and finally, The Dorset. Each stop offered a unique atmosphere and a chance to experience the local culture, from cozy historic inns to lively modern taverns.
On this boozy adventure were Ryan (me), Alex, James J (JJ), Toby, James D (JD), and Zack. Though I was the only one who made it all the way to the end, it’s a tale worth telling. JJ left after the first pub but rejoined us at pub six due to an errand. Alex, JD, and Zack tapped out at pub six, while Toby succumbed at pub seven. So, not to brag, but I was the lone survivor of this epic journey. Join me as I recount our Lewes pub crawl, with 10 pints and a trail of memories in our wake. From the initial excitement at The Lansdown Arms to the triumphant final pint at The Dorset, this adventure through Lewes showcases the best drinking spots and the vibrant spirit of this picturesque East Sussex town.
Pub 1: Kickoff at The Lansdown Arms
Our pub crawl adventure began at The Lansdown Arms, a cozy establishment right by Lewes train station. The atmosphere was vibrant, with eclectic decor and intriguing paintings adorning the walls. We soaked in the lively ambiance as the sun set, kicking off the night with a refreshing pint of Madri. The rule was simple: no repeat drinks for the rest of the night, ensuring a diverse and adventurous journey ahead.
Pub 2: Revelry at The Royal Oak
Next, we strolled over to The Royal Oak, where we were greeted by an awesome beer garden, perfect for basking in the beautiful sunshine. We enjoyed our pints of Amstel while soaking up the rays, making the most of the warm evening. The garden’s lively atmosphere set the tone for the rest of our crawl. Thanks to the man who took our photo!
Pub 3: Cheers at The Brewers Arms
The Brewers Arms was our third stop, and it did not disappoint. With a pool table in the back, Toby and I couldn’t resist getting a cheeky second beer, this time opting for Kronenbourg 1664. The bar served delicious thick chips that perfectly complemented our drinks. The staff’s great banter and flattering looks added to the fun, with Toby developing a mini crush on the particularly pretty bartender.
Pub 4: Merriment at Rights of Man
At Rights of Man, we were treated to a mix of history and hospitality. We met an older couple who regaled us with tales of Lewes’ historical significance. We enjoyed our pints of Birra Moretti with some pretzels, taking in the friendly and warm atmosphere. The staff here were especially charming, with another pretty bartender catching my eye.
Pub 5: Fun at The Lewes Arms
The Lewes Arms was a blur of laughter and good times. Unfortunately, the exact details of our drinks here escaped us, but the pub’s welcoming vibe and friendly patrons made it a memorable stop. We continued to enjoy the camaraderie and local flavor, chatting with both staff and fellow pub-goers.
Pub 6: Lively Times at Elephant & Castle
At Elephant & Castle, we opted for Lilley’s cider, savoring its crisp and refreshing taste (although it was warm). The pub was empty but we made more friends as the night wore on. JJ rejoined us here, adding to the merriment. The lively conversations and warm interactions kept the spirits high as we approached the later stages of our crawl.
Pub 7: Adventure at The Volunteer
The Volunteer brought a sense of adventure as we sipped on pints of Cruzcampo. The pub’s vibrant atmosphere and friendly patrons made it a standout spot on our crawl. Toby, unfortunately, had to bow out here, leaving me as the last man standing. We even struck up conversations with some random people on the streets, adding to the night’s excitement and charm.
Pub 8: Grand Finale at The Dorset
Our final destination was The Dorset, where we celebrated the end of our pub crawl with a few pints of Harveys, a local brew that perfectly capped off the night. The Dorset’s inviting ambiance and the delicious local beer provided a fitting conclusion to our journey. As the last survivor of the crawl, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment and joy.
Each pub on our Lewes adventure offered something unique, from delicious food and drinks to friendly locals and fascinating history. This pub crawl through Lewes was more than just a night out; it was a memorable journey filled with laughter, stories, and a true taste of the town’s vibrant spirit. Check out the special page below for my review of each pub in Lewes!