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Abbeys and Priories in Hailsham, Sussex
Michelham Priory
Upper Dicker
Hailsham
Sussex
Tel: +44(0)1323 844224
Fax: +44(0)1323 844030
Email: click here
Michelham Priory online: information and bookings
Michelham Priory is a beautiful historic property nestling deep in the Sussex countryside and offers much to interest visitors – history, exhibits, superbly kept gardens, art exhibitions, wildlife, working watermill. There is a well-stocked Gift Shop and a self-service restaurant.
We welcome visits from individuals, families and groups. If there are fifteen or more in your party, e-mail us for details of preferential admission prices and special menus in the restaurant.
Boasting England’s longest medieval water-filled moat, Michelham Priory’s "Island of History" reflects its nearly 800 year existence. The house dates back to 1229 when the Priory was founded and was lived in by Augustinian canons until the Dissolution in 1537. After this time, the Church of the Holy Trinity was destroyed and the house underwent various transformations including the addition of an extensive Tudor wing. The range of furniture and artefacts on display trace the property’s religious origins through its life as a working farm and its development as a country house. Exhibits include tapestries, furniture (including some made in the 1920’s/1930’s specifically for the then owner), kitchen equipment and a fully furnished 18th Century child’s bedroom.
The annual Garden Sculpture Trail features works by local artists and are specially selected for their merit and their ability to complement the garden.
The Watermill on the property was recently refurbished with the assistance of grants obtained from the Heritage Lottery Fund, East Sussex County Council and The Friends of Michelham Priory.
The earliest documentary evidence shows there was milling at Michelham from 1434. It was probably going on before this, but we have no written proof of it. Monasteries and Priories built alongside a water course would invariably incorporate milling into their structure of self-sufficiency where possible.
The Mill at Michelham has been restored twice in the last century, both times financed in the main by donation and volunteer help. The most recent restoration was completed almost 8 years ago and was part Lottery funded. Volunteers undertook a lot of the work and the Mill is now operated by a team of volunteer staff who are justly proud of the fine flour they produce from organic grain. During the open season, as long as a minimum of three volunteers are on duty, milling takes place every afternoon from 2.00 pm until closing. As well as milling, bagging and selling the flour, the volunteers are on hand to guide visitors over the three floors of the building. They also man a stall on the first Saturday of every month at the Lewes Farmers Market where the flour, and the Priory-baked bread and cakes, are proving ever more popular.
Facilities
Historic House, Gardens, Tea Room, Picnic Area, Children, Car Park, Private Group Tours, School Tours Available,
Weddings and Conferences
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 romantic venue for wedding receptions, lunches and ceremonies throughout the year. For details contact Ellen on 01323-849141 or fax 01323-840543 or email catermich@sussexpast.co.uk.
In case of alteration, please check prices, opening times and any specific important information before booking or visiting
