I frequently drive from Newcastle to Sussex and back. A1 - A14 - M11 - Dartford Crossing and then coming off the M25 at Sevenoaks is my preferred route both ways. Can be 6hrs on a good day (not including stops). 8-10 on a bad. That's setting off at around 6 or 7am.
Close to the ground you've got:
Trent House
Bar Loco (probably where I'll be)
Newcastle Arms
Rosies and Strawberry will be packed, so wouldn't bother there tbh.
Couple minutes walk further out:
Mean Eyed Cat
Tilleys
Wobbly Duck
Town Mouse
Depends what you're into really, and how far you're...
Lewes are away to KSK Beveren (Belgium) tonight in the Fenix Trophy tournament. Should be able to watch the live stream on YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/@fenixtrophytv7984/streams