Pretty UK town which formed its own currency is the perfect countryside escape

Only a short distance from Brighton, Lewes in East Sussex, often known for making its own money, offers a picture pretty escape.

This historic town is often associated with the Lewes Pound, which was introduced in September 2008 in response to the challenges of climate change and peak oil. While the currency is unique and can be traded locally at approximately 100 shops, Lewes has much more to offer.

Historical attractions

Lewes has such an extensive history to explore. One particularly special location is the Round House. Purchased by Virginia Woolf in 1919 for a mere £300, the former windmill was set to be her and her husband's home, until they purchased another property nearby.

Another notable home, is Henry VIII's fourth wife's home. When the king divorced Anne of Cleves she was given this medieval home, however, she never lived there. Visitors can explore the well-preserved interiors including a Tudor kitchen and a bedroom complete with a four poster bed.

Coffee cup with Lewes Pound underneath

The house also has a garden, which is inspired by a traditional Tudor planting scheme and includes shrubs, herbs and fruit trees. General admission costs £6.60 per adult.

Looking over the medieval streets below is Lewes Castle and its accompanying museum. Boasting panoramic views, the castle and Barbican House Museum explore the archaeological history of Sussex. Admission costs £10 per adult.

The town is also home to the notable Bull House, the former home of radical thinker Thomas Paine - the revolutionary writer and intellectual inspiration behind the American Revolution. The house offers pre-booked tours on Thursdays, or general admission for £5 per adult from Friday to Sunday.

Also, make sure to look out for twittens — narrows paths or passages iconic to Sussex — when wondering the towns' independent shops and pubs.

Other attractions

If history isn't of interest, there are plenty of other attractions for visitors to explore. The Pells Pool is the oldest documented freshwater outdoor public swimming pool in the UK. The Pells is especially interesting as it is unheated and fed by a nearby spring. Sessions cost £3.70 per adult, per hour.

Another intriguing element of Lewes is Audioways — a free QR trail around the district telling a range of stories from local ghosts and wartime pig adoption to the fascinating history of the chalk and flint local to the area.

If with children, Blackberry Farm has go carts, swing boats, zip slides and tractor rides to create a fun-filled day out. The farm of course also has a variety of animals. On the other hand, Harvey's Brewery offers a great escape for adults visiting Lewes — it is the oldest independent brewery in Sussex.

Places to stay

One place to stay is the Hovel at Housedean, which was previously used as an animal shelter but was later converted into a self-catering holiday cottage. Located on a working farm in the South Downs National Park, the cottage is situated just outside Lewes and a few miles from Brighton.

Alternatively, if travelling as part of a bigger group, The Grain Store is a great option. This luxury holiday accommodation sleeps up to six guests and is committed to using, where possible, green sources of energy. Prices range from £365 to £625 per night, depending on the season.

Places to eat

In addition to having the first Bills restaurant location in the UK, Lewes also has a great choice of places to eat, whether that be for a small bite or greasy pub meal.

Situated in the heart of Lewes is Flint Owl Bakery. This unique and charming bakery uses no chemical additives, improvers or fats in its doughs. For visitors wanting to sit in and enjoy Flint Owl's baked goods, there is a courtyard garden, which is also dog friendly.

For gourmet British food, head to The Bull. This historical pub date back to the 16th century, cooks up famous pub classics as well as its own specials, showcasing local produce. Alternatively, there is The Grumpy Chef — a bistro/cafe restaurant serving locally caught, ethical, sustainable and seasonal fish.

For wine lovers, there is the Ridgeview Wine Estate, which produces some of the finest sparkling wine in the world. Their wine has been served by the Queen, Gordon Ramsey, and has recently been selected as the official supplier for Downing Street receptions. Tours cost £20 per person and must be booked in advance.

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