The picturesque county town of East Sussex has been named by The Times newspaper as one of the prettiest places in the UK to do your festive shopping and extols the virtues of the plethora of its independent shops.
The Times said: “Like it or not, Christmas is on the horizon, and the best way to combat any shopping-related stress is to start early.
“We’ve found towns yet to be taken over by big-name chains in some of the prettiest corners of the UK, so you can pair your quest to find one-off gifts with a welcome staycation.
“The big-brand shops of Brighton may be just down the road, but your pounds are better spent in the independent shops of Lewes. It’s already known as an arty weekend escape and a gateway to the South Downs, but the shopping is excellent too.
Specific shops mentioned as stand-out outlets included womenswear retailer Along Came She as well as vintage clothing shop Rehab and botanical gift shop Elsewhere From Victoria.
