Michelham Weddings, Civil Ceremonies and Functions

Michelham Priory is a unique venue for weddings, civil ceremonies and other corporate and catering functions. Enjoy quality food and wine in the most relaxing of medieval environments; an island surrounded by the longest water-filled moat in England.

Michelham Priory, situated in the glorious Sussex countryside, is an historic property open to the public between March and October each year. However, we are delighted to be able to offer this impressive venue for wedding ceremonies and receptions, luncheons and corporate functions throughout the year.

The historic house, Elizabethan Great Barn and seven acres of gardens are on an island surrounded by a water-lily covered medieval moat. Access to the island is via a stone bridge, through an imposing fourteenth century gatehouse. The main house evolved from the domestic quarters of an Augustinian Priory founded in 1229, and ceased to function as a religious establishment in 1536 as part of Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries. The land has been farmed over many centuries and the harvest stored in the fine Great Barn built during the Elizabethan era. The Great Barn and its private Moat Terrace are now used for Michelham’s functions and events.

The buildings facing the barn were once used as stabling. Two sides of the courtyard now house our licensed restaurant and offices and the remaining side is a working forge and Michelham’s Rope Museum with artefacts from Hailsham, once the centre of an important rope industry.

The beautiful grounds surrounding the historic house, Great Barn and a romantic Moat Walk are a beautiful backdrop for your memorable day.