Harvey's Brewery

Harvey's has been brewing in Lewes since 1790, and walking into their visitor centre feels like stepping into a place that actually gives a damn about beer. The brewery itself sits right in the town centre - you can't miss it - and they run tours that take you through the whole operation, from the copper to the bottling line. It's proper hands-on, not some corporate visitor experience.

The tour lasts about 90 minutes and you get to see where they're still using equipment from the 1950s alongside modern kit. At the end, you'll taste their ales - the Sussex Best Bitter is the one everyone goes on about, and fair play, it's excellent. They also sell their full range in the shop, including bottles you won't find in supermarkets.

This works brilliantly if you're camping at The Secret Campsite or Three Ponds Holiday Park nearby - both are within easy reach. Families with older kids will find it interesting enough, though it's really geared towards anyone who cares about how beer actually gets made rather than just drinking it. The town of Lewes itself is worth a wander before or after, and you're close to South Downs National Park if you want to walk it off.

Check their website for tour times and book ahead - they fill up. Not free, but the price is reasonable and you get a decent tasting included. Definitely worth the trip if you're staying in the area and you're not just after a quick souvenir.