Michelham Priory

About

Michelham Priory boasts England’s longest medieval water-filled moat and offers a great day out for all the family.

The moat encircles a site steeped in history dating back to 1229, from its foundation by Augustinian canons, through the destruction caused by the dissolution of the monasteries in Tudor times and into its later life as a country house for farming families in times of peace and Evacuees from London in and Canadian Army during WWII.

On our picturesque island you will find seven acres of magnificent gardens, the Tudor mansion, impressive 14th century gatehouse, the historic watermill and forge, Elizabethan Great Barn, Dovecote shop, café and playground.

Explore eight hundred years of history in the house and gatehouse with hands-on activities and displays of furniture and artefacts. Rooms include an interactive Victorian kitchen, our WWII evacuee’s bedroom, Tudor kitchen, Prior’s room and Undercroft.

Discover our rural heritage with our historic watermill and forge.

Relax in seven acres of tranquil gardens and grounds. Take a walk around the moat, the recreated cloister, physic and kitchen gardens and watch the abundance of wildlife.

Enjoy the many sculptures throughout the grounds. There are also many special events held throughout the year.

Play in the children’s playground and try on dressing up clothes in the house.

Eat in the popular café, serving hot and cold food and drinks all day.

Plenty inside and out to keep the family entertained all day.

The Gardens

Explore seven acres of beautiful grounds at the majestic Michelham Priory, near Hailsham. From 80,000 blooming daffodils in the spring to summer displays of peonies, roses and alliums, once you cross the medieval moat onto the picturesque island you will be immersed in the tranquil sounds and smells of nature. A moat walk, children’s playground and café with homemade produce makes this the ideal day out for the family.

Why not stay longer?

If you're visiting with children, check out the nearby Knockhatch or Drusillas adventure parks. Or take a visit to pretty Pevensey, the spot where the Normans landed in 1066, or Herstmonceux with its fantastic observatory and moated castle.