 Michelham Priory
The delightful remains of this Augustinian Priory can be found in a most
tranquil spot on the Sussex Downs. From the Anglo-Saxon name,
meaning 'a large piece of land in a river bend', it is apparent that
Michelham was engulfed on three sides by the River Cuckmere as it still
is today. Founded in 1229 by Gilbert de l'Aigle, Michelham Priory was
built to ensure that his family would always be remembered in prayer.
Unfortunately, very little remains of the original priory buildings due to extensive conversions
and remodelling that occurred after the Dissolution. However,
from excavations carried out in 1960, the church was believed to have
been a regular cruciform construction, some 200ft (60.6m) from west to east,
which was completely demolished in 1537. The 13th century dining room, on the southern side of the cloisters, is
one of the few surviving medieval rooms. Although altered and
refurbished in the late 16th century, then restored from a state of
near dereliction in the early 20th century, it is still possible to
see evidence of priory life. Along the west range a restored 13th
century vaulted undercroft with the Prior's Chamber above, and a passage
exist, but little else. Nothing survives along the east range,
where the Chapter House and main dormitory would traditionally have
been situated.
Entrance to the site is by way of a late 17th century stone bridge, which incorporates the
prestigious 14th century gatehouse. Built of local greensand,
the gatehouse stands over 60ft (18.2m) high and retains an original, internal
spiral staircase leading to the roof. Further excavations in the mid 1970s unearthed the foundations of a medieval
hall, possibly used as a guesthouse of Michelham Priory. Having passed
through many different ownerships following the Dissolution in 1537,
what mainly exists today are the Tudor buildings and later extensions
and restorations. When Thomas Sackville purchased the estate in 1601
he divided into small holdings and leased it to tenants. It is possible
that it was at this time that the emphasis shifted from hunting in
the park to farming. The Sackville family remained owners of Michelham
Priory for nearly three hundred years, but it was Richard Beresford-Wright
who began the restoration work after he bought it in 1924.
Set in beautiful gardens, Michelham Priory is a delight to discover, and with plenty to offer even
the most discerning visitor. Its history is interesting and colourful,
the architecture spans several hundred years, and there are many fascinating
anecdotes to learn about during its ever-changing life. |
