Michelham Priory House & Gardens

22/12/2023

Our offices are now closed for the Christmas holiday season.❄️
Wishing everyone a joyful Christmas break!

13/12/2023

Last chance to visit before we close for the season🎄

Drop in this week to see the Priory decorated with fresh foliage from our stunning gardens, open Thursday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm.

Explore our wintery gardens, grab a bite to eat in the Bean Bike cafe, and maybe even do a spot of Christmas shopping in our gift shop 🎁

More about visiting here: https://sussexpast.co.uk/attraction/michelham-priory/

10/12/2023

Only three days left to get our Gift Annual Memberships to Sussex Archaeological Society before Christmas! 🎁

Whether they love exploring extraordinary historicalsites or want to learn more about the archaeology and heritage of Sussex, this 12 month pass will allow your
loved ones access to a range of special experiences!

Please note – Final order date for postage in time for Christmas is Wednesday 13th December, so make sure to check out our website now.

For more information, follow the link below:
https://sussexpast.co.uk/shop/

08/12/2023

Our Elizabethan barn is a perfect place for your events and celebrations in 2024! 🏰🥂

Transform your upcoming events into unforgettable moments by booking Michelham Priory's Elizabethan barn as your venue.

Available for private event hire, complete with the option of catering and a bar.

For inquiries and more information, contact [email protected] 🌟

Create memories in a venue that's as unique as your celebrations!

08/12/2023

Treat a loved one to a year of historical adventures this Christmas! 🎁
Looking for some fun days out with the family in 2024? With an Annual Family Membership to the Sussex Archaeological Society , everyone can come along to our free children's activity events during half-term and holidays!

Whether they love exploring extraordinary historical sites or want to learn more about the archaeology and heritage of Sussex, this 12 month pass will allow your loved ones access to a range of special experiences!

Please note – Final order date for postage in time for Christmas is Wednesday 13th December, so make sure to check out our website now!
For more information, follow the link below:
https://sussexpast.co.uk/shop/

06/12/2023

Twelfth Night Tudor Wassail!
Join us on the 20th January 2024 for a magical event of dancing, drumming, fire and feasting to bless the trees and wish them good health for the year ahead!🌳✨

Bring along a musical instrument, decorate yourself in foliage and feathers and join the torchlit procession to wake the apple trees from their slumber, scare away evil spirits and celebrate winter like the Tudors did. 🎭✨ Hot/cold refreshments at both the Family Wassail (3pm-5pm) and Adult-only Wassail (6pm-9pm), with alcohol served at the latter.

There is limited capacity for this event, and no tickets will be available on the door, so pre-book now for a night of Tudor enchantment! 🎟️

For more information about this event and buying tickets, follow the link below:
https://sussexpast.co.uk/event/wassail/

06/12/2023

Join us for an old traditional evening of dancing, drumming, fire, food & drink to bless the trees and wish them good health! 🔥🍏

Tickets are now on sale for our Twelfth Night Tudor Wassail on Saturday 20th January.

The event will be led by traditional experts, Martlet Productions, with entertainment from Gallyard Tudor Dancers, Blackpowder Morris, Brighton Folk Choir and Devilstick PEAT and more, who will help transport you back 500 years to when Wassailing was common across Sussex.

🎟️ Pre-booking is essential, book your tickets here: https://sussexpast.co.uk/event/wassail/

05/12/2023

We'd like to say a huge THANK YOU to the Friends of Michelham Priory for our new wheels 🤩

Our grounds are going to look fantastic thanks to this wonderful new lawnmower! 🌱

01/12/2023

Experience a magical Twelfth Night Tudor Wassail at Michelham Priory on 20th January 2024! 🕯️🍏 Join us for dancing, drumming, feasting, and a torchlit apple tree awakening. Dress in greenery, ring bells, and enjoy entertainment from Blackpowder Morris, Gallyard Tudor Dancers, Pentacle Drummers and more! 🎭✨

Hot and cold refreshments are available at both the Family Wassail (3pm to 5pm) and the Adult-only Wassail (6pm to 9pm). Alcohol will also be served at the Adult-only Wassailing event.🍺

There is limited capacity for this event, and no tickets will be available at the door, so pre-book your tickets through the link below for a night of Tudor enchantment!

For more information about this event and buying tickets, follow the link below:
https://sussexpast.co.uk/event/wassail/

30/11/2023

Treat a loved one to a year of historical adventures this Christmas! 🎁

Whether they love exploring extraordinary historical sites or want to learn more about the archaeology and heritage of Sussex, this 12 month pass will allow your loved ones access to a range of special experiences!

Please note – Final order date for postage in time for Christmas is Wednesday 13th December, so make sure to check out our website now!

For more information, follow the link below:
https://sussexpast.co.uk/shop/

29/11/2023

Golden leaves and sleepy trees 🍂 The winter is starting to set in here at Michelham Priory, with the trees changing colour from golden yellows to warm oranges and all of our gardens are settling down, ready for a long winter's rest!

28/11/2023

May your days be merry and bright!🎄✨

This past weekend of festive fun has brought us all into the Chistmas spirit, and we couldn't have done it without YOU!

Thank you to everyone who joined us at Michelham Priory over the weekend, it was amazing to see so many happy visitors and stallholders, we hope you all had a magical time!🌟

We'd also like to say a huge thank you to all of the organisers, staff and volunteers from both England's Medieval Festival and Sussex Past, everyone's hard work and dedication are truly appreciated. It was wonderful to see people coming together and creating such a magical event! 🏰

25/11/2023

DAY ONE - DONE ✅

And what a fantastic first day it was! We can't wait to do it all over again tomorrow! 🎄

👉 Find out more about coming along to the event at EnglandsMedievalChristmasFayre.com

25/11/2023

The day is finally here 🥳

We are absolutely thrilled to open our gates at 10am to welcome visitors to England's Medieval Christmas Fayre ❄️

Walk through the Gatehouse, and you’ll feel you’ve entered a medieval winter wonderland in full festive celebration with a range of jovial entertainment.

✨Some of the highlights included in general admission: ✨

🎼Live music from Hope Cove and Seaford Silver Band,
⚒ Blacksmith, wreath and candle-making demonstrations
🎪Children's entertainment with Devilstick PEAT
🎄Ceilidh dancing, family Christmas carol sing-along, minstrels and storytelling
🐺 Winter wolves, birds of prey and festive ponies
🪆 Christmas market full of artisan goods, jewellery, baked treats and more!

📣 IMPORTANT:
Walk-up tickets are available but parking is at Arlington Stadium, Eastbourne and a Park & Ride shuttle service is available to and from Michelham Priory, which is a short 5-10 minute journey. Head to the car park at Arlington Stadium FIRST, and then purchase your ticket on arrival to Michelham Priory.

A limited number of Blue Badge disability parking spaces are available at Michelham Priory, subject to availability and a valid Blue Badge must be presented upon arrival.

Also note, there is not ATM at Michelham Priory. Whilst some stallholders may have a card reader, some may not. Therefore we suggest bringing cash on the day to avoid any disappoint.

👉 To find out more about the event, click here: https://englandsmedievalchristmasfayre.com

24/11/2023

Just one more sleep until England’s Medieval Christmas Fayre at Michelham Priory!🎄

Come along for festive food and drink, birds of prey, medieval wolves, market traders, and much more. There will also be Christmas crafts, including gingerbread cookie decorating, reindeer food making, and letter writing to Santa!🎅 🦌

The weather forecast looks chilly and crisp - be sure to wrap up warm for your visit! ❄️🧣

Please note: There's no ATM at Michelham Priory, and whilst some stallholders accept cards, not all will. We recommend bringing cash to make the most of your medieval shopping and treats! 💰⚔️

Make sure to head over to our website TODAY to book your entry tickets and parking! Follow the link below:
https://sussexpast.co.uk/event/medievalchristmasfayre/

23/11/2023

Our beautiful grounds are being transformed into a winter wonderland, just two more sleeps until the big day 🤩

England's Medieval Festival have been busy setting up tents, Christmas wishing trees, fire pits, have-a-go activities, and earlier this week our fantastic team of staff and volunteers dressed our Tudor mansion with freshly cut festive foliage from our very own garden🎄

📅 Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th November

👉 Find out more about this unique Medieval Christmas Fayre at EnglandsMedievalChristmasFayre.com

22/11/2023

Bundle up in your coziest winter warmers and join us for a magical time at England's Medieval Christmas Fayre this weekend. 🧣 The weather is looking perfect, with festive winter sun all weekend 🎄

Gather 'round the Witches Circle for enchanting Yule stories or be captivated by tales from a timeless Father Christmas. 📖❄️

Book now at EnglandsMedievalChristmasFayre.com

22/11/2023

🪴Potted plants and pretty books!

Brought to you by the talented , we are happy to announce that we will now be selling these lovely plants alongside our newly relocated second-hand bookshop, all inside the Michelham Priory Café! 🌿☕️

Make sure to check out the gorgeous greenery during your next visit!

21/11/2023

✨ Step back in time this weekend at England's Medieval Christmas. Join us on Saturday and Sunday for an enchanting journey into the traditions of the past.

A range of demonstrations will be taking place across the site, with the opportunity to try your hand at:

🔥 Blacksmithing: Witness the artistry of skilled blacksmiths as they craft intricate pieces over a roaring fire

🕯️ Candlemaking: Watch the traditional craft of candlemaking

✒️ Calligraphy: Discover the art of calligraphy with quill and ink

🌿 Wreath Making: Learn all about making this traditional Christmas decoration

📅 Saturday 25th November, 10am to 6pm

📅 Sunday 26th November, 10am to 5pm

Bring your family and friends to this unique celebration of Christmas traditions from centuries past, run by England's Medieval Festival.

👉 Book online and save: EnglandsMedievalChristmasFayre.com

20/11/2023

🎪 Devilstick PEAT joins us for England’s Medieval Christmas Fayre, and here is what he has to say:

"I'm so excited about being at the very first England's Medieval Christmas Fayre at Michelham Priory in East Sussex!

This is going to be a really festive and unique event, and I am looking forward to being the favourite fool at the fayre, and having fun with everyone .

So don't delay, buy your tickets today (you'd be a fool not to)!’’

🎩 Devilstick Peat is an amazing and unique magician and Medieval Jester, making audiences smile and laugh at England’s Medieval Festival for more than 30 years.

Hilariously funny and incredibly talented, Peat has something to delight everyone and always makes your visit truly memorable.

👉 Find out more and book here: EnglandsMedievalChristmasFayre.com

19/11/2023

Autumn mornings at Michelham Priory 😍

📸 Taken by Head Gardener, James Neal.

18/11/2023

The countdown is on and in just a week's time, the grounds of Michelham Priory will be transformed into a medieval winter wonderland, for England's Medieval Christmas Fayre ❄️

We've got a host of fantastic stalls selling unique gifts to suit all, the perfect way to get your Christmas shopping done in style.

✨Some of the highlights included in general admission: ✨

🎼Live music from Hope Cove and Seaford Silver Band,
⚒ Blacksmith, wreath and candle-making demonstrations
🎪Children's entertainment with Devilstick PEAT
🎄Ceilidh dancing, family Christmas carol sing-along, minstrels and storytelling
🐺 Winter wolves, birds of prey and festive ponies
🪆 Christmas market full of artisan goods, jewellery, baked treats and more!

Along with England's Medieval Festival, we absolutely can't wait for this magical event 🤩

📅 Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th November

Don't forget, if you're a member of Sussex Archaeological Society (Sussex Past), you can get half-price tickets until Monday at 7pm (see email sent to members on 16th November).

Find out more and book your ticket now: https://englandsmedievalchristmasfayre.com/

16/11/2023

We are thrilled to extend a special offer to our valued Society Members — Half-price tickets for England's Medieval Christmas Fayre on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th November ✨😍

Taking into consideration feedback from some of our members regarding the admission cost, we are delighted to share this special concession, and we hope that you will all join us for this wonderful Christmas event. 🎄

As a registered charity without regular funding, we greatly rely on the support of our dedicated members. Your attendance at this event will not only enrich your experience of the beautiful Michelham Priory, but also contribute to our ongoing efforts during these challenging times, and support the local stallholders in attendance.

Members who have provided an email address will have received an email with details of how to claim the discount. If you’re unable to find it, please check your junk or spam folder. If you still cannot locate the email, please contact us at [email protected] with your full name, address and membership number (you can find this on the back of your membership card) as soon as possible.

This special offer is valid until 7pm on Monday (20th November), so don’t delay! 🎄

15/11/2023

❄️🐺❄️ 10 days to go until England’s Medieval Christmas Fayre, where you will see…

The Watermill ‘Winter’ Wolves - learn about training these amazing animals, or come by the stand for a chance of a fuss and photograph. They are great for a bit of winter warming hug for all ages.

Come and say hi to the wolves on Saturday 25th November and Sunday 26th November 2023 at Michelham Priory House & Gardens.

Advance bookings save at EnglandsMedievalChristmasFayre.com

14/11/2023

✨⭐️ COMPETITION TIME ⭐️✨ *Now closed*

The countdown is on, with just 12 days until the spectacular England’s Medieval Christmas Fayre comes to Michelham Priory and we’re kickstarting the countdown with a competition 🎉

The lucky winner will receive a free pair of tickets (two adults plus car parking) worth £45, to the Fayre on either Saturday 25th or Sunday 26th November 🎄

👉 If you’d like to be entered into a draw to win this fantastic prize, all you have to do is:

1️⃣ LIKE and SHARE this post – Make sure the post is set to ‘Public’
2️⃣ Like our page if you haven't already
3️⃣ Leave a comment in the box below telling us who you'll be bringing along if you win!

📆 Entries must be received by 4pm on Tuesday 21st November, and we’ll announce the lucky winner in the comments section below.

This event is run by the renowned England's Medieval Festival and promises to be a magical event with activities and fun for all ages. Additional tickets can be purchased if needed.

Find out more about the event here: https://englandsmedievalchristmasfayre.com/

🍀Good luck!

13/11/2023

Kickstart your festive season in a truly historic style by stepping back in time at the Medieval Christmas Fayre on Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th November 🎄

❄️ Wander around the enchanting Michelham Priory with a delicious mulled wine, explore an array of unique stalls offering handmade gifts, bespoke clothing, and delightful sweet treats, whilst the sound of Christmas carols fills the grounds.

Amongst the marketplace stallholders at the event are Mrs McGoo Scottish Tablet, Spikes & Vines Plant House, Bramble Drinks Company and Nesh She.

Experience the medieval charm of Michelham Priory and soak in the festive atmosphere at this one-of-a-kind Christmas event. ✨

👉Book tickets now at englandsmedievalchristmasfayre.com

12/11/2023

Get your creative side out at our festive family day on Saturday 25th November and Sunday 26th November 2023.

A range of Christmas craft activities are available inside the beautiful Michelham Priory buildings and marquees at England’s Medieval Christmas Fayre, including all the following for the Child’s Christmas Experience Day Ticket 🎟️

🍪 See who can make the most festive gingerbread
🧆 Make food for the reindeers, ready for their Christmas Eve visit
📝 Write Santa a letter with a quill and ink
🎄Make an ornament for your tree to remind you of your day out
🍚 Try some of the historical food that people would have eaten in medieval times
🏰 Listen to stories & Take a Selfie with Father Christmas
🔥 Marshmallows to Roast by the Fire!

Book your ticket early to save at englandsmedievalchristmasfayre.com

12/11/2023

11/11/2023

Lest we forget. 🌹

11/11/2023

Add a pop of winter colour to your garden 🌸

We've got a fresh stock of winter flowering plants and spring bulbs in the Dovecote Gift Shop 😍

Drop in this weekend, open Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

More about visiting: https://sussexpast.co.uk/attraction/michelham-priory/

10/11/2023

Would you like to be in with a chance of winning one of THREE family tickets (2 adults, 2 kids & parking) to England's Medieval Christmas Fayre on 25th/26th November? 😍

Here's what you have to do:

1️⃣ Colour the Christmas Tree (download & print here - https://bit.ly/englandsmedievalfestival or collect a colouring sheet from Michelham Priory)

2️⃣ Post a picture of your completed colouring sheet and tag England's Medieval Festival (make sure the post is set to 'Public') or email it to [email protected]

One winner will be chosen from each age category:
❄️ Below 3 years
❄️ 4 to 7 years
❄️ 8 to 12 years

Enter by 9am Monday 20th November 2023 and we will contact the winners shortly after*.

Don't worry if your colouring doesn't get selected, as you can also bring your coloured picture to the gate with your Child’s entry ticket, and receive a holiday treat!

*Full T&Cs can be found at englandsmedievalchristmasfayre.com

03/11/2023

🍁 Michelham Priory House & Gardens Winter Opening Times 🍁

Dear Michelham Priory Enthusiasts,

As the leaves fall and winter settles in, we're embracing the seasonal change here at Michelham Priory House & Gardens. We want to keep you in the loop about our updated winter opening hours, ensuring you can continue your historical adventures with us.

Winter Opening Hours:
📅 30th October – 17th December
🕰️ Thursday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm

📅 18th December – 31st January
🚪 Closed except for special events

Please note that our last admission will be 45 minutes before closing time, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time exploring the priory and its picturesque gardens.

We also want to take this opportunity to remind you to always check our website for the most current opening times before setting out on your journey. Winter weather can sometimes bring unexpected changes, and we want to ensure your visit is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

There are still a few events booked in for December as well as England's Medieval Christmas Fayre. Always check our website for all our upcoming events: https://sussexpast.co.uk/whats-on/

Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm for Michelham Priory House & Gardens. We look forward to welcoming you on your winter adventures, surrounded by the rich history and natural beauty that makes our priory truly special.

Warmest regards,

The Michelham Priory Team

01/11/2023

🌧️ Important Announcement: Temporary Closure Tomorrow (Thursday, 2nd Nov) 🌧️

In light of the yellow weather warning issued for our region, we regret to inform you that Michelham Priory House & Gardens, and all our sites will be closed tomorrow, Thursday, 2nd November, ensuring the safety and well-being of our staff and visitors.

Your safety is our top priority, and due to the adverse weather conditions expected, we believe it is in everyone's best interest to remain closed for the day. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this time.

We are closely monitoring the weather situation and aim to reopen as scheduled on Friday, offering you the opportunity to explore our sites once again. Please stay tuned to our social media channels and website for any further updates regarding our opening status.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support. We look forward to welcoming you back when conditions improve.

Stay safe and take care!

Warm regards,

Sussex Past Management

24/10/2023

🎃👻 Spooktacular Halloween Fun at Michelham Priory! 👻🎃

🧺🏡 Wednesday 25th – Meet the Victorian Housewife
Experience the daily life of a Victorian housewife as she conquers the challenges of laundry day. Get hands-on with 19th-century laundry tools and learn about the laborious process of washing clothes in the Victorian era. 🧺🏡

🗡️🛡️ Thursday 26th – Meet the Celtic Warrior
Be transported to a time of legends and myths as our Celtic Warrior guards Michelham with ancient and mysterious presence. Immerse yourself in Celtic history and hear tales of bravery that will send shivers down your spine. 🗡️🛡️

And that’s not all! Your little ones can unleash their creativity with our fantastic craft activities, guided by Michelham Priory’s wonderful volunteers:

🕷️ Make your own Pom Pom Spider & Bat: Craft your own spooky pom-pom spiders and bats to add a touch of eeriness to your home! 🦇

🧛 Make a black cat or Dracula: Let your little artists bring classic Halloween characters to life with our black cat and Dracula crafts. 🎨

🔮 Make your Clay Charms and Amulets: Dive into the mystical world of the Celts by crafting clay charms and amulets using authentic Celtic molds. ✨

Event Details:
🗓️ Date: 24th to 26th October
⏰ Time: 11am to 3pm
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Age Suitability: All ages
🎟️ Cost: Free with general admission, donations to the Friends of Michelham Priory encouraged. 🤗

Don’t miss this spooktacular opportunity for a hauntingly good time! 🎃👻 Spread the word and bring your little ones for a Halloween experience they’ll never forget!

Go to our website for more information: https://sussexpast.co.uk/event/october-half-term-spooky-crafts-at-michelham-priory/

See you at Michelham Priory! 🏰✨ 🎉👹

23/10/2023

October Half Term is here 🥳

We've got a fantastic range of activities for children and their families this week.

🎃Starting with Spooky Halloween Fun from Tuesday to Thursday, 11am to 3pm.

Each day you can meet a person from the past, the WW2 Home Guard, Victorian Housewife and a Celtic Warrior, as well as Halloween-themed arts and crafts.

🎟 Included in general admission (members go free), whilst donations are gratefully received.

🏮 Friday & Saturday - 'Magical Light' workshop with Same Sky

Have a go at creating your very own lantern to take home in this workshop led by award-winning community arts organisation, Same Sky. Take a light sculpture walk and take an activity trail around our magnificent grounds.

🎟 Tickets £15 per person, including entrance to Michelham Priory.

To find out more or book your space, click here: www.sussexpast.co.uk/whats-on

20/10/2023

Last few tickets remaining for A Christmas Carol 📢

Don't delay if you'd like to catch this delightful performance of Charles Dickens' classic tale of redemption and kindness on Sunday 3rd December at 2.30pm and 5pm.

The performance by This Is My Theatre will feature Christmas carols and live music, making it a festive treat for all ages.

Find out more and book: https://loom.ly/FBH2tXU