Scheduled MonumentsEnglandLewes Castle

Lewes Castle

England
List entry 1013268
Nation
England
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Historic England (NHLE)

Overview

History & significance

Lewes Castle is a Norman motte-and-bailey fortress constructed in the late eleventh century following the Norman Conquest of England. The castle occupies a commanding position above the town of Lewes in East Sussex and comprises two motte mounds connected by a substantial ditch, an unusual double-mound design that reflects the sophistication of its construction. The site was established by William de Warenne, a prominent Norman baron and close associate of William the Conqueror, and served as a significant administrative and defensive centre for the de Warenne family's extensive Sussex estates. The surviving earthworks and fragmentary stone structures, including parts of the curtain wall and gatehouse foundations, remain testament to the castle's strategic importance throughout the medieval period.

Lewes Castle is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1013268. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Lewes Castle?

Lewes Castle is a Norman motte-and-bailey fortress constructed in the late eleventh century following the Norman Conquest of England. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1013268.

Who is responsible for protecting Lewes Castle?

Lewes Castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Historic England (NHLE) — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in England. The official designation reference is 1013268.

What other scheduled monuments are near Lewes Castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Money Burgh, oval barrow 200m west of Deans Farm (6.5 km), Cross dyke on Telscombe Tye (7.2 km), Pedlersburgh: a bowl barrow on Telscombe Tye (7.7 km).

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