New Cafe at Michelham Priory – Now open!
A warm welcome to the Blue Door Café at Michelham Priory – Now open!
Visitors to Michelham Priory House & Gardens are in for an extra treat this Easter with the grand opening of The Blue Door Café – a beautifully transformed space offering delicious homemade lunches, sweet treats, and expertly crafted barista coffee. Open just in time for the Easter Bank Holiday weekend, the café is set to become a new favourite for locals and visitors alike.
Locally sourced, lovingly made
Run by Bryony Basden, The Blue Door Café takes pride in celebrating the best of Sussex. The menu is full of fresh, flavourful options made using ingredients from some of the area’s top-quality suppliers. Expect freshly baked pastries from Coburn & Baker, rich barista coffee by Craft House Coffee, hand-blended Sussex Ice Cream, breads and dips from Mamoosh, and indulgent chocolate from J.Cocoa. Every dish is simple, satisfying, and expertly prepared – perfect for a light lunch or an indulgent afternoon treat.
A café transformation worth seeing
Housed within the historic setting of Michelham Priory, the café has undergone a stunning transformation. With a warm, rustic-vintage vibe, the carefully curated interiors complement the heritage of the site, while adding a stylish and welcoming atmosphere. A delightful Kids’ Corner ensures younger guests are just as happy as the adults, and yes – dogs are more than welcome, with treats on hand for your four-legged friends!
Take a bit of the café home with you
Love the look and feel of the Blue Door Café? Visit our charming retail area, where you’ll find a regularly refreshed collection of vintage homeware, cards by local artist Abbie Hart, scented candles, handmade chocolates, and our very own Blue Door Café Granola.
Special opening offers
To celebrate the launch, Blue Door Cafe is offering a special 25% discount for Sussex Past Members on their first visit – just show your membership card or this email at the till (offer valid until 16 October 2025, one-time use only). You can also pick up a Blue Door Café Loyalty Card to unlock exclusive offers and rewards on future visits.
A perfect day out – no admission ticket required
You don’t need a ticket to the Priory to visit the café – it’s open to everyone, making it a great meeting spot for friends and family. And if you’re looking for a memorable venue for a celebration, we’d love to hear from you – we’re happy to host special occasions too.
A springtime outing
A visit to Michelham Priory this spring is already a delightful experience, with the gardens bursting into bloom. Stroll through the seven-acre grounds and admire the colourful tulips, and blossoming trees, all set against the backdrop of England’s longest medieval moat. As the warmer weather arrives, visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, explore the priory’s rich history, and now, relax with a cup of expertly brewed coffee at The Blue Door Café.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone who appreciates great food in a beautiful setting, The Blue Door Café is set to become a must-visit destination this Easter. Don’t miss out – mark your calendars and be among the first to experience this exciting new addition to Michelham Priory House & Gardens.
Opening hours
Tuesday to Sunday
10am – 4pm
(Open on Bank Holidays, including the Easter weekend)