Huge summer craft show returns to Michelham Priory

This summer, the annual Contemporary Craft Show returns to the stunning grounds at Michelham Priory House & Gardens near Hailsham.

From Friday 29 to Sunday 31 July, the grounds at the heritage site will be transformed as craftspeople from the Sussex Guild return to show off their wares in marquees on the lawns and in the Great Elizabethan Barn.

Sussex Guild members have been displaying their creations at Michelham Priory House & Gardens for more than 50 years, with artisans of all kinds showing off ceramics, textiles, glass, leatherwork, printmaking, woodwork, furniture and more. Visitors can browse at more than 40 stalls and watch live demonstrations to learn about different craft techniques directly from makers, including woodturning, embroidery, quilting, pottery and jewellery making.

Dating back to 1229, Michelham Priory is steeped in history. It was originally home to Augustine canons, one of the religious orders of the Medieval church, and later housed Tudor families and Second World War evacuees. The property has a working watermill and stunning gardens – a haven for wildlife – and is surrounded by the largest medieval moat in the country.

As well as the craft show, families can explore the historic house and gardens, have fun in the revamped children’s play area and try homemade cakes and local produce at the café. There is plenty of green space for picnics, where visitors can relax and take in the tranquil gardens, which are abundant in the summer.

Dan Cook, property manager at Michelham Priory House & Gardens, said: “We’re delighted to welcome back the Sussex Guild for their Contemporary Craft Fair exhibition, which has been a tradition at Michelham Priory for decades.

“Entry is included in the cost of admission, so visitors can make the most of the day here and see our historic house and gardens too.

“At this time of year, a variety of dahlias and perennials will be in bloom, so our display beds and Herbaceous borders will be a sea of colour – it’s a glorious place to be in the summer.”

Entry to the Contemporary Craft Show is included in admission to Michelham Priory House & Gardens. Please note that tickets are available on entry only during the Contemporary Craft Show. Prices start at £11 for an adult, £5.50 for a child or student, £10.50 for a senior, £25 for a family with two adults and up to four children, and £17 for a family with one adult.

Discounts and free entry promotions do not apply during the Craft Fair, but Art Fund passes are accepted.

Find out more about the Contemporary Craft Show at Michelham Priory House & Gardens.

Take a look at a snippet from the Contemporary Craft Show in 2019.