Southover Grange, Grade II* listed Tudor mansion in Southover, England
Southover Grange is a two-story Tudor mansion in Lewes built with sturdy stone walls that have survived centuries of change. Inside, oak-paneled rooms, ornamental fireplaces, and wooden staircases reveal the craftsmanship of the period and the layers of use the building has experienced.
William Newton built this house in 1572, salvaging stone from the ruins of Lewes Priory for its construction. He obtained permission from Thomas Sackville, the first Earl of Dorset, to undertake this project.
The house functions as Lewes Register Office, where couples exchange vows and families celebrate official milestones in an historic setting. The building's continued use for ceremonies connects generations of visitors to this site's long presence in local life.
The surrounding gardens offer outdoor space and host various events throughout the year, from theater to seasonal celebrations. The building serves an active official function, so visits should be planned in advance to ensure access.
The celebrated diarist John Evelyn spent his childhood years here under the care of William Newton's grandmother. This period left its mark on his early development and is documented in his personal writings.
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