What is recorded here

Lewes Castle stands as one of England's first post-Hastings fortresses, built by William de Warenne between 1067 and 1070 with two unusual mottes instead of one. King Henry III fled its safety to fight Simon de Montfort in 1264, lost, and surrendered power while Prince Edward charged the barons' lines. Centuries later, a rebel mob broke in during the 1381 Peasants Revolt, stole wine, and destroyed documents before the stones faded into ruin. The Sussex Archaeological Society now preserves the barbican and keep, where zig-zag steps still climb toward a roof view that once watched for enemy smoke.

The National Heritage List for England records Lewes Castle as a scheduled monument. The saved point comes from the centre supplied by the official record. Listing does not by itself mean that the public may enter the place.

Lewes Castle was built by William de Warenne, 1st Earl of Surrey, in the late 12th century, following the Norman Conquest. It is important as a key medieval fortress and as the site of the 1264 Battle of Lewes, a significant event in the Second Barons' War.

The historic-place record does not grant public access. Check current conditions and ownership before entering land or a building.