Publications
The street plan of Lewes and the Burghal Hidage, by Michael Holmes, published 2010 in Sussex Archæological Collections (vol. 148, article, pp.71-78) accessible at: W.S.R.O. [Lib 18613] & The Keep [LIB/500366] & S.A.S. library View Online
Abstract:The striking rectangular pattern of the central Lewes streets is considered in its historical context. The absence of evidence for Roman settlement of the town and its first recorded appearance in the Burghal Hidage suggest an early Saxon origin. Detailed measurements of the layout of features of the town lead to a comparison with Hidage towns such as Wareham and Cricklade which were deliberately laid out as fortified settlements in the mid to late ninth century. It is concluded that Lewes fits this pattern. Based on this and recent discoveries, an estimate of the probable position of the Burgh Ditch is made.