Lewes has a long and eventful history, and has always been widely recognised as an archaeologists treasure trove, thanks to the countless numbers of historical artefacts and relics that remain to be unearthed. Artefacts have been unveiled from the prehistoric era, and Lewes was also greatly influenced by the Roman invaders, which is plain to see.
Lewes has something of a rather tragic past in that it was the town in which the Marian Persecutions (which already claimed the lives of hundreds of innocent Protestants) came to a climax during the 16th century when no less than seventeen Protestant people were put to death for no other reason than their religion. As was the standard means of execution at the time, all seventeen of the victims were burnt alive and in commemoration of this dark chapter in the history of the town, every year on Guy Fawkes Night burning crosses are paraded through the town.
Thomas Paine, the Englishman who played a key role in the management of two revolutions (the French and American respectively) was born in the city of Lewes and his home has been converted into a museum and features many artefacts belonging to Paine. Of particular note are a number of original manuscripts penned by Paine, including his thoughts on the need for independence of the American colonists, as well as extremely sharp caricatures of the king at that time, King George V.
We hope you enjoy your stay in one of our cheap Lewes hotels, mid range or luxury Lewes hotels.
