Lewes Little Theatre

Tucked away in Lewes itself, this independent theatre punches well above its weight. It's a proper community operation - the kind of place where locals actually run the shows and audiences know half the cast. The building's intimate, maybe 150 seats or so, which means you're genuinely close to the action. No distant stage whispers here.

You'll find a rotating programme of amateur productions, from classic comedies to the occasional contemporary piece. The standard varies - sometimes you'll catch something genuinely accomplished, other times it's charmingly amateur in the best possible way. It's not West End polish, but that's rather the point. There's a real energy to it.

This works best if you're staying locally and fancy a proper evening out without the formality of a major venue. Families with older kids will enjoy it more than younger ones - the programmes tend toward adult humour and drama. It's also ideal if you're the type who actually cares about supporting local arts rather than just ticking off tourist attractions.

If you're camping at any of the nearby sites - The Secret Campsite, Chalky Downs, or Three Ponds Holiday Park are all within five miles - you could easily make an evening of it in Lewes town centre. The theatre sits right in the heart of things, so you can grab dinner beforehand and browse the independent shops. Worth checking their website for current shows and booking ahead; they do sell out.