East Sussex has oodles of places where you can make unforgettable family memories. Take your kids to spy on smugglers and pirates or learn about castles and historic houses. For a more old-fashioned day out, hitch a ride on a vintage locomotive. And let's not forget the animal attractions and farm parks, which are great for tots that love cuddly critters, while older kids and teenagers will appreciate the opportunity to learn about conservation efforts. There's something for every age in Sussex!
Please note that all of the information within our guide to family days out in East Sussex was accurate at the time of writing, please check each venues website for any updates.
Family Days Out in East Sussex
Contents
Zoo's and wildlife parks
Sport & Leisure
Parks
Museums Hastings Museum and Art Gallery
Zoo's and wildlife parks
Drusillas
Welcome to Drusillas Park, the award-winning wildlife attraction in the heart of East Sussex. With over 100 exotic animals, it's a must-visit destination for the whole family!
Discover a world of adventure and experience the thrill of seeing Chilean flamingos, capuchin monkeys, red pandas, and giant anteaters in real life. The fun-filled rides are animal-themed, from the Flying Cheetahs ride to the Rainforest Carousel ride. And don't forget to hop aboard the Safari Express train ride that takes you through the park.
Swing, jump, and climb your way across the adventure play areas, get lost in Mungo’s Maze, or visit the Jurassic Jungle to explore a world of prehistoric giants!
The walk-through exhibits at Lemurland and Lory Landing are a must-visit, and there are plenty of thrilling rides, including the Hippopotabus and Safari Express Train.
Immerse yourself in the world of animals and experience a range of interactive exhibits, from feeding the penguins to even being a zookeeper for a day! Drusillas zoo park takes great care of both wild and domestic animals, ensuring that all the animals are safe and well-cared for.
Pricing
General Admission All Ages (2+) from £22 Seniors (60+) from £20 Family from £17
Location
Alfriston, East Sussex, BN26 5QS, England
Phone number 01323 874100
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve
This Site of Special Scientific Interest is home to a vast array of rare plants and exotic insects, just waiting to be discovered by you! Pack your bags, folks - with binoculars, camera and sketching materials on the ready, this is an adventure you won't want to miss.
The footpaths offer a network of high-quality bird hides to aid your ornithological pleasure. Better still, these hides have been designed with disabled access in mind. Mix up your hikes with sandy dunes, granite rocks, lush meadow, tranquil wetlands, mysterious woodland and even salt marshes. The variety of ecosystems on offer makes this a prime location for nature enthusiasts both young and old.
And there is more! A historical element pervades throughout the Reserve, with centuries of military architecture to admire. The info-point, although unmanned, houses a range of informative pamphlets. For further resources and facilities, continue on to Lime Kiln Cottage (signposted). Here, volunteers with insider knowledge wait to impart their wisdom on all things fauna and flora. Visit daily from 10am to 4pm...seasonal variations apply!
Knockhatch Adventure Park
Pop along and visit the amazing animal encounters barn for an opportunity to get a close-up close with live animals, reptiles and owls. You can even hold a snake or spider if you’re brave enough! Later fly over to catch the owl show, watch in awe as they drop, swoop and glide around majestically.
For the daredevils of the group, head to the outdoor park and take on the demon drop slide! Don’t worry if your kids are different ages, the indoor adventure park houses 4 play areas each created with a different age group in mind. Finally for that last little bit of excitement, set sail as a family in the boating lake or even go head to head in a game of crazy golf at the Enchanted Golf course.
Wide variety of animals at the farm
Indoor & Outdoor Park
Crazy golf course
Individual (2yrs+) £20.99
Person with Disabilities (2yrs+)*See the T's and C's below regarding this ticket. £16.99
Location
Address Off the A22 East Sussex, 9 miles north of Eastbourne, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 3PR, England Phone number 01323 442051 Website Click here to visit Knockhatch Adventure Park's website.
Blackberry Farm
Welcome to Blackberry Farm near Whitesmith! This family-run farm is the perfect spot for animal lovers of all types. You'll find 18 acres of Sussex countryside where you can soak in some uninterrupted views and engage with all sorts of adorable farm animals!
Come down to the farm walk and say hello to all your favourite animal friends in their own fields. Go ahead, cradle a small and fluffy chick in your hands, or stroke a rabbit or guinea pig while you're at it! But don't worry, there's more than just animals to admire here too. Enjoy our modern farm kitchen as you fill your stomach with tasty meals for any appetite.
There are lots of activities to keep you busy here at Blackberry Farm, including Pedro, Theo and Bonnie - the friendliest ponies around. They'll help young riders saddle up for a nice gentle ride around the paddock - Bonnie is perfect for smaller children and Pedro and Theo suit the older ones. Don't forget to take the tractor ride too! You'll feel like a real farmer working the fields.
No matter what the weather brings, the indoor and outdoor play areas are chock full of fun activities for every age. Come on down and make some new furry friends! Don't forget that Blackberry Farm is open 10am- 4pm, 7 days a week, except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day. Experience days are available and admission prices include the use of indoor soft play, animal handling, and tractor rides.
Individual tickets (Age 2+) £14.00 per person save 50p by pre-booking online
Pony rides (Ages 2-10) £3.75**
Animal Feed £2.00
Children Under 2 are Free
Sports and Leisure
Sovereign Centre Leisure Pools
The Sovereign Centre - the ultimate all-weather leisure destination! Whether you're a fan of swimming or gymnastics or just looking for a great day out, they've got you covered. With wet and dry facilities including a fun pool with waves and flume, 25m gala pool, a diving pool, a training pool, a gym, a workout studio, a sports hall with badminton courts, sauna and steam room and a cafe, there's something for everyone.
Looking for some excitement on a Friday night? they've got just the thing with our Big Wave Night. Our waves and music are turned right up for this session which features the latest tunes, big waves, and inflatables for an epic party. Best of all, it costs just £6.20 per person every Friday night all year round! Choose from sessions that run from 17:00 to 18:45 and 19:00 to 20:30.
Got some little mermaids and mermen in the family? Sign them up for some excellent swimming lessons! Their lessons cater to children and adults from 6 months old and up, regardless of ability. From beginners to experienced swimmers looking to improve their technique, stroke, and stamina. Certificates are awarded to pupils at the end of every level and the lessons run 50 weeks of the year.
Is your child more of a gymnast? Check out The Sovereign Centre's Gymnastics Programme. The programme is suitable for 4-11 year-olds and is run in partnership with British Gymnastics. They offer fun, structured classes to introduce kids to this great sport. Certificates are awarded to pupils at the end of every level and the lessons also run 50 weeks of the year.
Pricing
Adults: £6.30 Kids: £4.90 Seniors: £4.50 Family: £18.50
Address
The Sovereign Centre, Royal Parade, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN22 7LQ, England
Phone number 01323738822
Owens Entertainment
Looking for a one-stop-shop that features a wide array of entertainment options? Look no further than Owens – the latest and greatest in entertainment venues. With over 20 different fun and unique experiences set over not one, but THREE different floors, Owens is a must-visit for anyone looking for a good time. Whether you’re 6 or 60, there’s something for everyone at this incredible venue in the heart of Hastings.
Let’s start by talking about the bowling. Ten pin is a classic game and Owens has you covered. With multiple lanes on offer, you can come alone or bring a group of friends for an entire afternoon of bowling fun. If you’re up for a fun challenge, try your hand at Duckpin bowling – it’s a unique twist on the classic game that will have you hooked in no time.
Of course, there’s much more on offer at Owens than just bowling. Check out their selection of crazy golf courses – all guaranteed to keep you on your toes! Will you opt for the Underwater Adventure course or perhaps the Jungle Expedition? With so many themes to choose from, you’ll want to play them all.
For those looking for a more digital experience, Owens has got you covered. Strap on a VR headset and lose yourself in one of their many virtual reality activities! From racing games to interactive movies, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Now, let’s talk food. Owens features a delicious themed carvery restaurant, perfect for refuelling after a day of fun. Or, if you’re looking for something more casual, check out their signature café. You’ll love the selection of snacks and drinks on offer.
Finally, we can’t talk about Owens without mentioning their indoor garden bar. With its unique atmosphere and craft beer selection, it’s the perfect place to unwind and relax after a long day of entertainment.
Address
1-3 Robertson St
Hastings
TN34 1HT
Phone
01234 586 684
Website
Treasure Island Eastbourne
Ahoy there, mateys! If you're on the hunt for some pirate-themed thrills, look no further than Treasure Island. This complex is bursting with buccaneer-y goodness for all weather conditions, making it the perfect destination year-round. And with indoor and outdoor activities, as well as a mini-golf course, there's something for every member of your crew. So, prepare to weigh anchor and set sail for Treasure Island!
First up, let's take a look at the Buccaneer's Indoor Adventure. This multi-level soft play area is perfect for kiddos who need to burn off some energy. They'll love climbing, sliding, and crawling through the various obstacles and play structures. And if you have younger children, there's a separate area just for them with age-appropriate features. Parents will appreciate the comfortable seating area where they can relax with a drink or snack from the Hungry Pirate Cafe.
Next, set your sights on the Treasure Island Outdoor Adventure Park. Here, you can live out your pirate fantasies by climbing aboard a shipwreck complete with slides, netted walkways, and even a zip line! Kids will love exploring the park's open space or splashing around in the paddling lagoon. And don't forget to hit the beach for a chance to search for buried treasure. Just make sure to bring a change of clothes - things can get wet and wild!
If you're looking for a more leisurely pirate-themed activity, check out the Pirates' Adventure Golf course. This 8-hole course is beautifully landscaped with pirate lore and even has little caves to putt through. It's great fun for all ages and the course is even lit up at night for a memorably swashbuckling evening.
As you can see, Treasure Island offers a wide range of activities for all types of weather. Whether you want to burn off some energy indoors, explore the great outdoors on a shipwreck, or practice your putting skills on a pirate-themed course, there's something for everyone at Treasure Island.
Address Royal Parade, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN22 7AE, England
Phone number 01323 411 077
Ninja Arena
Looking for an awesome activity spot for the whole family in the heart of East Sussex? Look no further than Ninja Arena Eastbourne, formerly known as Ninja Warrior!
Ninja Arena Eastbourne is a fully supervised activity and fitness venue that caters to all ages. It's a space where you can hop, balance, jump, and swing your way through a variety of obstacles, utilizing and developing your ninja skills in a completely safe environment.
You'll need to book your session online in advance, but don't worry - with Sunday SEN sessions, Adult-only sessions on Fridays (term time only), and regular sessions throughout the week, there's always a session to suit your schedule.
Planning a birthday party for your little ninja? Look no further than Ninja Arena Eastbourne. With regular or deluxe party packages available, your child can enjoy an hour of ninja fun and even take home some cool Ninja Arena merchandise. The best part? You'll get your very own private party room complete with food and drinks.
And for the little ones, Ninja Arena Eastbourne also runs mini ninja sessions for children under 5. These special sessions are subject to availability and offer a quieter, more relaxed environment for your mini ninjas to enjoy all the fun of the regular Ninja Arena.
Price of admission £11-£13
Monday to Friday: 10am - 7pm
Saturday: 10am - 7pm
Sunday: 10am - 6:15pm (SEN Session: 5:15pm-6:15pm)
Urban Jump
Does your kid have boundless energy? Then Urban Jump is the perfect playground! Challenge yourself on the Ninja Warrior Course, bust a move to some great tunes at Urban Nights, and bounce away on 1000 square feet of trampolines at our trampoline park. We even have a soft play area for younger children to safely burn off some steam. Urban jump offers fitness sessions, pre-school trampoline sessions, or parties too! So come on, let's bounce, dance, dive, and dodge at Urban Jump!
Pricing
Jump and Jungle £12.95 Family Jump £12.95 Mini Mornings £7.00 Soft Play £4.50
Address
Ghyll Road Industrial Estate, Heathfield, East Sussex, TN21 8AW, England
Phone number 01435 863277
Go Ape Bedgebury
Although not technically in East Sussex it is just a short drive up the A21
Reach New Heights of Adventure at Go Ape Bedgebury!
Are you searching for an adventure that takes you sky-high and challenges your limits? Look no further than Go Ape Bedgebury, an award-winning high-ropes experience nestled in the stunning Bedgebury Forest. With tunnels, trapezes, and rope ladders, this treetop course promises a thrilling experience that is sure to leave you buzzing. So join us as we swing through the treetops and discover the highlights of this amazing outdoor attraction.
The Treetop Adventure course is the perfect place to start your adventure, as it offers fun for all the family. With wobbly crossings like the stepping stones, followed by a soaring zip-line that brings you back to the ground, it promises to be an exhilarating experience. And if you and your little ones (over 1m tall) are hungry for more, you can up the ante on Treetop Adventure Plus, which features longer leaps and an epic solo zipline - perfect for young daredevils over 6 years and 1.2m. And when you reach the top, don't forget to admire the stunning views of Bedgebury Forest. You'll feel like you're on top of the world or a Tarzan of the Jungle!
But there's more to Bedgebury Forest than just the fantastic treetop courses. Known as the "Garden of England," this forest boasts one of the most complete collections of conifers in the world, making it a dream destination for any nature lover. From ancient trees to rare species, it's a place where you can truly connect with nature and admire the beauty of the natural world.
If you're looking for a high-flying adventure that's packed with laughter, excitement, and stunning views, then Go Ape Bedgebury is the perfect destination for you. With an emphasis on family-friendly fun, adrenaline-pumping challenges, and a commitment to sustainability, this award-winning attraction is the ultimate destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. So swing on by and experience the fun for yourself - we guarantee you won't regret it!
Pricing
General Admission Adults from £21.00 Kids from £21.00 Prices may vary please check the attraction's website for details. Car admission fee at Bedgebury is £14.00 per car on weekends, School Holidays
and Bank Holidays. And £10.00 during off peak.
Address
Bedgebury Road, Goudhurst, Cranbrook, Greater London, TN17 2SJ, England
Phone number 01603 895500
Hastings Adventure Golf
Hastings Adventure Golf is the ultimate destination for family golfing enthusiasts. Featuring three separate 18-hole courses including the Pirate themed Adventure Golf Course, Crazy Golf, and Minigolf, there is something for everyone at this venue. The beautiful landscaped gardens, amazing water features, and unique obstacles will take your mini golfing experience to a whole new level.
The Pirate themed Adventure Golf Course is the flagship course of Hastings Adventure Golf. The course is designed with excellent landscaping that includes three waterfalls, six water fountains, and two pirate ships fighting an epic battle. This course is perfect for families and players of all ages and skill levels. It can take up to an hour for a family of four to complete the course, but the journey is worth it.
In addition to the Adventure Golf Course, there is traditional Crazy Golf, which features mild novelty obstacles and angled greens. This course is perfect for beginners to get the hang of golfing. Hastings Adventure Golf also offers Minigolf, which is a miniature version of regular golf. The courses provide club sizes in five different sizes to accommodate people of different heights and skill levels.
The club sizes at Hastings Adventure Golf are unique, and players won't have to hunch or stretch to make a shot. Moreover, children aged five and below get to play for half the price. Kids over three can complete the courses with a little help from their parents or guardians. It's great to see that this place is designed to accommodate players of all ages, and the club sizes ensure that everyone is comfortable.
General Admission
All Ages (6+) from £8.50
Kids (0-5) from £4.24
Family from £25.00
Address Marine Parade, Hastings, East Sussex, TN34 3AG, England
Phone number 01424 437227
Parks
Alexandra Park Hastings
Nestled in the heart of Hastings, UK, Alexandra Park is a must-visit destination for those who love nature. The lush greenery and abundant wildlife make it an ideal spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. In this blog post, we'll explore the many facets of Alexandra Park, from its diverse flora and fauna to the various seasonal events that take place throughout the year.
If you're a birdwatcher or simply love nature, then Alexandra Park is the perfect destination for you. The park is well known for its diverse and abundant wildlife, especially at the Northern end, known as 'Old Roar Gill'. It is now a Local Nature Reserve and is well worth visiting with your binoculars. Kingfishers and Grey Wagtails can be seen all year round all over the park, especially at the Bucks-hole Reservoir and Harmers Pond areas. It's a great spot for twitchers of all orders because of the pleasing proximity to the coast. Many rare migrant birds regularly visit the park, including Night Heron and Little Bittern, plus the delightfully monikered Honey Buzzard and Ferruginous Duck!
Apart from the wildlife, Alexandra Park also has several other attractions. The lower park highlights include ponds, a traditional bowls green, a family-friendly cafe, an adventure playground, a bandstand, a war memorial, and a helpful public information point. The upper park includes tennis courts, a multi-play area, formal flower and rose gardens, reservoirs for fishing (permit required), natural woodland, and a cute miniature railway that'll be the gem of the trip for most kids.
If you're visiting during the summer months, then you're in for a treat. Various special and seasonal events take place in Alexandra Park, including Hastings Beer Festival, various Band Concerts, Play in the Park, and interpretive walks and activities, amongst other things. These events are a great way to experience the park's cultural events, enjoy the fantastic food, and soak up the atmosphere of this lovely green space.
Address Lower Park Road, Hastings, East Sussex, TN34 2LD, England
Princes Park Eastbourne
Looking for a non-touristy, family-friendly destination for a day trip? Look no further than Princes Park! With its artificial lake, children's adventure playgrounds, and beautiful floral displays, this park offers something for everyone. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at what makes Princes Park so special and why it's worth a visit.
First and foremost, the central feature of Princes Park is the large artificial lake. Here, you can watch local model yachts and powerboats being raced by local clubs. At other times, you may see groups of swans swimming freely in the lake. The lakeside terraced paths are perfect for a leisurely walk, and there are plenty of benches where you can sit and enjoy the scenery.
If you're looking for a more active day out, Spray Watersports offers sailing and windsurfing lessons to all ages from 6 years old and up. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, the experienced instructors will help you develop your skills and have a great time on the water.
For those who prefer a more relaxed day out, Princes Park has plenty to offer as well. The park is 2012 through 2015 Green Flag awarded, which means it has exceptional floral displays, landscaping, and welcoming spaces. The large scented rose garden is perfect for a picnic, and there are plenty of lawns where you can spread out a blanket and enjoy the sunshine. If you don't want to pack a picnic, Pistachios in the Park café has you covered with a selection of sandwiches, salads, and other light bites.
One of the highlights of Princes Park for kids is the two adventure playgrounds located at each end of the lake. These playgrounds are designed for kids of all ages and have a range of exciting features, from swings and slides to climbing walls and rope bridges. Kids can also enjoy a mini beast safari kit and explore the park's natural surroundings.
Finally, it's worth noting that Princes Park has a few extra amenities that might appeal to older visitors. There are bowling greens and a putting course located near the café, giving you the chance to try out your skills. The park is also on the seafront Dotto train route during the season, which is a fun way to see the surrounding area and make the most of your visit to the seaside.
Address Grove Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN22 7LL, England
Ashdown Forest
Growing up with Winnie the Pooh is one of the fondest memories many of us hold dear. He's cute, cuddly, and has a heart full of love. The Hundred Acre Wood was where Pooh and his friends had plenty of adventures. And now, you can take your kids on an enchanting journey to the world of Winnie the Pooh in the beautiful Ashdown Forest. This forest inspired AA Milne to create the magical world we've all come to love so much. So, put on your walking shoes and travel with us to this whimsical place.
Ashdown Forest, located in East Sussex, is a beautiful woodland that inspired A. A. Milne's Winnie the Pooh stories. Your kids will get to live the story as they explore the forest and discover all the secrets it holds. Start by heading to Pooh Bridge. This is where you can reenact the iconic game of Poohsticks, with the little ones. It's a game of skill, focus, and fun. And, if you keep a close eye on the water, you might just see a trout swimming by.
As you explore the woodlands, keep your eyes peeled for Owl's and Piglet's homes. They're hidden amongst the trees, but with a little bit of imagination, they come to life. The forest is full of natural beauty, from flowers to trees and bushes. Bring your furry friends along too - it's a great place for walks with your pets!
If you've got time to spare, there are plenty of other attractions in Ashdown Forest too. Visit the old windmill, Moulsford Windmill, where you will learn about the history of the mill and witness its preserved machinery. The Priest House and Gardens is a definite must-visit. It was once home to the local priest and now serves as a museum. The Wishing Tree in the gardens sparks the imagination in young minds and provides a serene spot for a quiet picnic.
The Enchanted Place is a mystical and magical spot that's sure to delight your little ones. It's a tranquil glade, hidden in the woods, that played a part in the Winnie the Pooh stories. It was supposedly where Pooh and his friends went to play and hide. The perfect spot for a game of hide and seek! It's just one of the many wonderful things you'll discover when you explore Ashdown Forest.
Address The Ashdown Forest Centre, Forest Row, Wych Cross, East Sussex, RH18 5JP, England
Hastings Museum and Art Gallery
The Hastings Museum and Art Gallery is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture that never ceases to amaze. This magnificent museum boasts a unique blend of artefacts, ranging from fine paintings and china to fossils that transform into dinosaurs and local wildlife displays. With something to interest visitors of all ages, the Hastings Museum and Art Gallery is an exciting and educational experience. In this blog, we'll dive into the features of the museum and provide a glimpse of what awaits visitors.
The Hastings Museum and Art Gallery is the perfect destination for families with children. Kids can explore the museum's prehistoric crocodiles and fish, a diorama of local animals and birds, and the Native American Galleries that include a tipi and buffalo. Additionally, there's a fascinating display on the life of the famous conservationist and Hastings native, Grey Owl. Children can also learn about the town's history as a hub of smuggling, with exhibits that showcase the sneaky trades in tea, tobacco, and spirits. Smugglers were known to indulge in a bit of owling, making a week's wages in a single night with their wares.
One of the museum's highlights is the impressive Durbar Hall, built as a part of the Indian and Colonial Exhibition of 1886. The hall served as part of an Indian Palace and now showcases artefacts related to the Indian subcontinent and the Brassey family's life collected during their voyages all over the world in the 19th century. The Durbar Hall is an awe-inspiring space that makes visitors feel as if they have travelled the world.
But that's not all - the Hastings Museum and Art Gallery has several famous personalities on display, including John Logie Baird and Robert Tressell. Baird's invention of television led to a revolutionary change in how we experience broadcast media, and Tressell's creation of the classic novel, "The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists" gives us a realistic portrayal of the working-class in Edwardian England, inspiring reflective thought in our lives.
The museum also caters to the dinosaur enthusiasts, displaying fossils that depict dinosaurs as augmented beings, adding a fun and fascinating twist to paleontology. Visitors will be able to learn about the history of the local wildlife, contrasting it from the modern-day and as it would have been 150 million years ago. The sheer grandeur of the museum's fine paintings and china also leaves visitors in awe.
Address Johns Place, Bohemia Road, Hastings, East Sussex, TN34 1ET, England
Phone number 01424 451052
1066 Battle of Hastings Abbey
History buffs and families alike will love a visit to Battle Abbey, located in Sussex on the site of the famous 1066 Battle of Hastings. This unique attraction offers a fascinating look at one of the most pivotal moments in English history, as well as a chance to explore atmospheric ruins and a picturesque walled garden. In this blog post, we'll delve into what makes Battle Abbey such a memorable family day out.
First up, the visitor centre is not to be missed. With interactive displays and a CGI film, visitors can learn about the battle and gain a deeper understanding of England at the time of the conquest. The audio tour of the battlefield itself is even more impressive, bringing the past to life with vivid descriptions and recreated battle noises. It's the perfect way for both adults and children to learn about this momentous day in history.
The abbey ruins themselves are a highlight of any visit to Battle Abbey. Visitors can stand where King Harold is said to have died and soak up the incredible atmosphere of the site. Don't miss the small museum in the old Monks' Gatehouse, which features a range of historical artefacts discovered during excavations of the site. It's a fascinating insight into the rich history of the area.
If you're looking for a peaceful escape from the battlefield, the Duchess of Cleveland Walled Garden is a real hidden gem. Newly replanted, the garden provides a glimpse into a lesser-known aspect of the site's history. As a country estate, the site was once home to beautiful gardens, and the walled garden is a tranquil space filled with wildflowers, bees, and 16 varieties of apple tree. It's the perfect spot for a picnic or a quiet stroll.
Finally, Battle Abbey is a fantastic family day out. Children will love the interactive displays in the visitor centre and the specially-designed audio tour of the battlefield. There's also plenty of space to explore and run around in, and the picnic area is perfect for a family lunch. Don't forget to bring your four-legged friends along too - dogs on leads are welcome at Battle Abbey.
Address High Street, Battle, East Sussex, TN33 0AD, England
Phone number 01797 229049
Michelham Priory and Gardens
Michelham Priory, situated in the picturesque countryside of East Sussex, is a remarkable historic house, gardens, and working watermill dating back to Medieval times. This hidden gem is a perfect destination for those who love to explore the rich history and learn about the way the people of the past lived. Michelham Priory offers its visitors an immersive experience with hands-on activities, dressing up, and interactive tours.
Michelham Priory is situated on a small island surrounded by a moat, making it an ideal setting for a historic house. As you approach the priory, you will be welcomed by the beauty of the green landscape and the stunning architecture of the house. The priory feels like a time capsule that has preserved the life of the past and offers visitors a glimpse of what life was like in the Medieval era.
One of the most exciting experiences that Michelham Priory offers is the chance to dress up and engage in hands-on activities to learn more about life in the past. The house has a dedicated space for dressing up and traditional games, which is perfect for families with young children. Imagine dressing up as a monk and exploring the priory as it would have been during its medieval heyday.
The watermill at Michelham Priory is another fascinating experience. Open to visitors Tuesday to Sunday afternoons from 14:00, this working watermill operates on the principle of water power and offers visitors an up-close view of how milling was done in the past. If you're lucky, you might even see the watermill in action, grinding corn to produce flour.
Michelham Priory also boasts a range of events for families throughout the school holidays. One of the most popular is the Celtic Festival in May, where visitors can learn about the ancient traditions and culture of the Celts. Similarly, the Medieval Weekend in September takes visitors back to medieval times with interactive activities, live performances, and entertainment for all ages.
In terms of recent developments, Michelham Priory has added a new playground and picnic area situated across the moat, making it an excellent choice for families. Children can enjoy a range of activities in this area, including the sandpit, zipwire, and swings. Additionally, the impressive interactive Medieval gallery, located in the 14th Century gatehouse, offers visitors the chance to engage with an array of medieval artefacts and learn about the everyday life of the time.
Address Upper Dicker, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 3QS, England
Phone number 01323 844224
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