A weekend in Lewes, East Sussex

In order to fit in some bonding time before Christmas, Frank and I decided a little while ago to spend a weekend in a little town called Lewes in East Sussex.

We haven't been able to spend much time together over the past few months, snatching a lunch break here and there or else a quick coffee after work if we have time. Spending a whole weekend together was a (much-needed) luxury and I couldn't wait to get there. Unfortunately, the gods decided to inflict a stinking cold on me before I went. I was bitterly disappointed, convinced it would ruin our little holibobs. We decided to ensure that we didn't spend our time madly dashing around taking in the sights. London is a pretty hectic place to live, and I needed rest, so short pootles and good food was top of our priority list.

After checking into our hotel, we spent the evening sharing a bottle of wine and playing Banangrams in the hotel bar. I wasn't feeling very well, so it was nice not going out into the cold and instead sinking into comfy sofas to pass the time in quietude.





The next day we went for a little walk around the town. The weather was glorious (albeit cold) and I was nursing a chesty cough. We saw the local castle, and made our way onto the South Downs which were a mere 15 minute walk away.



The views were spectacular. I love chilly, bright days with electric blue skies and bright colours.









Breakfast in the hotel was quite an affair. Being the ever-hungry man, Frank opted for a Full English, but I tried bubble and squeak with a poached egg, mushroom and tomato. It was delicious.



On Sunday we went for a little wonder round the shops. Wickles was top of the agenda: a gorgeous independent shop housing all manner of goodies. I honestly could have taken out a mortgage to fund everything I wanted from that little treasure trove. We also found stacks of antique shops and enjoyed hunting through all the oddities.







Lunch was eaten at Bill's. It was recommended by some friends and did not disappoint. This bustling restaurant also sells vegetables, chutneys and other odds and sods.







True to style, Frank ordered a burger and some real ale which is exclusive to Bill's and brewed over the road by Harvey's brewery. I went for a leek and mushroom macaroni cheese with a breadcrumb topping. Delish.











Another highlight of the weekend (for Frank) was when he saw this on a restaurant table that we'd booked. He tried to get me to slip it into my handbag (typical scouser), but ended up settling for a photo instead.



And of course matching pyjama bottoms. A sigh of relief after a long couple of days and a well-earned rest.