Enjoy an enchanting insight into medieval life by stepping through the doors of a genuine 15th-century house that was owned by Anne of Cleves (1515-1557), German princess and fourth wife of Henry VIII. Though she never visited, nor lived in this house, it was granted to Anne as a part of her divorce settlement from King Henry.
Upon entry, you are free to explore the well-preserved parlour, bedroom, kitchen, hall and garden. There is ample information displayed around the museum that gives insight into contemporary craft, cooking, dress, living practices and more. There is even an area where children are welcome to try on Tudor period-style outfits in the original bedroom of the house.
History of the House
The property was carefully restored by Walter Godfrey in the 20th Century and stands as an outstanding example of timber-framed 15th-century architecture. Built in the Wealden Hall style, contemporaneously popular in Sussex and Kent.
The house was improved in the 16th century with the addition of a chimney in the bedroom and the removal of the wall which originally separated the bed chamber into two rooms. In this period, bedrooms were not solely for sleeping but were also used as private reception rooms.
In the 19th century, the house was divided into a number of individual areas, housing multiple tenants. This was prior to Godfrey’s restoration of the house, which has allowed it to serve as a museum of Tudor history.
Everywhere you look there are little gems that bring the place to life, stories and tales including one about a curious mouse that runs up and down the bed frame every night. Indulge yourself in immersive descriptions of Tudor life, photographs of original historic clothing, and even some original recipes for medlar and crab apple jelly.
The kitchen contains various replicas of 15th and 16th-century cooking equipment including pots, a mortar and pestle, a trug, costrels and more. The kitchen was added during the 16th-century extension; in the original house, it would have been in a separate building in order to minimise the risk of fires spreading.
Interestingly, the house was mostly self-sufficient as residents grew to produce in the gardens and kept livestock for all of their cooking. Though the grounds are now modest, originally, the property included stables, a malthouse, outbuildings and an orchard.
Planning Your Visit to Anne of Cleves House in Lewes
Experience history where it happened! Book tickets in advance here, or at the door, at £6.60 for adults, £6.00 for seniors, and £3.90 for children or students.
You can find the Anne of Cleves House at 52 Southover High Street, Lewes, BN7 1JA. There is paid parking just outside, the train station is a ten-minute walk away, and buses stop at the King’s Head which is a two-minute walk.
The house contains multiple levels connected by stairs of uneven heights due to the historical nature of the building. Therefore those with access needs should call ahead to enquire.
