Fun family days out in Sussex this summer

This Tudor house in Upper Dicker, near Hailsham, complete with medieval gatehouse and stunning grounds, is surrounded by England’s largest medieval moat.

With seven acres of beautiful grounds and buildings including a great barn and working forge, it's the perfect place for little ones to explore .

They can even get hands-on and uncover 800 years of history inside the main house where the rooms reflect the different periods of Michelham’s rich history, from its founding by Augustinian canons in 1229 to providing a home for evacuees and the Canadian Army during the second world war.

“There aren’t many historic sites where parents can relax and let their kids make the most of what’s on offer, but that is exactly what we provide here at Michelham Priory,” explains property manager Dan Cook. “We aim to make it a really fun learning experience that is accessible for everyone – you don’t have to know all the kings and queens of England to enjoy it and have a good day out.”

There is a packed programme of free family drop-in sessions every Wednesday over the summer, including:

- July 27: focus on archaeology

- August 3: learn about wildlife

- August 10: a lesson in pre-history

- August 17: learn more about plants

- August 24: focus on Tudors, including Tudor dancers

As well as a fascinating perspective on life in the past, Michelham offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life, with a focus on biodiversity coupled with a love for the great outdoors.

“From the moment you cross the moat, hear the birdsong and wind gently rustling through the trees, there is a sense of calmness and tranquillity which is really magical,” adds Dan.

“From the kitchen garden to the physic and medieval herb gardens, and our hidden vegetable patch, there’s plenty to see and do for those who want to make a day of it. Our head gardener James Neal and his team of volunteers have created a beautiful home for nature here.”

Families can feed the ducks, stroll around the moat or take in the sculpture trail; there is even a recently refurbished children’s play area as well as a café serving local produce, some of which – like honey, vegetables, apples and herbs - is sourced and grown on the site.

Michelham Priory is just one of the historic properties run by Sussex Past, a charity dedicated to helping people enjoy, learn about and have access to the heritage of Sussex.

Their impressive historic properties - which welcome 150,000 visitors a year - offer the perfect days out in Sussex, from dressing up at Lewes Castle & Museum and the nearby Anne of Cleves House to discovering what the Romans did for us at Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens. The Priest House and Gardens near East Grinstead, Shoreham's Marlipins Museum and The Long Man of Wilmington also provide plenty to inspire young minds with something to entertain all ages.

Full entry to Michelham Priory House and Gardens costs £11 for adults or £5.50 for children, or membership starts from less than £1 a week for individuals: get summer sorted with a year’s family membership starting from £52 for a family of one adult plus three children.

For more details of Michelham Priory, visit https://sussexpast.co.uk/attraction/michelham-priory/

To find out more about Sussex Past and the Sussex Archaeological Society, head to https://sussexpast.co.uk/