10 best wedding venues in East Sussex for a picture-perfect celebration

With its rolling countryside, dramatic coastline, and picture-perfect villages, East Sussex is home to some truly stunning spaces to say ‘I do.’ Whether you’re looking for a windswept clifftop ceremony or a chic celebration by the sea, the best wedding venues in East Sussex blend natural beauty with understated elegance, offering couples something to suit a variety of styles and tastes. So, if you’re looking to get married in this neck of the woods, you’ll find countless spaces that are bound to impress.

Home to charming villages and seaside towns such as Rye, Lewes, and Eastbourne, East Sussex lays claim to a selection of postcard-worthy backdrops where you can tie the knot. Surround yourself with striking historic sites like Bodiam Castle, or embrace the scenic landscapes of Seven Sisters, with picturesque landscapes that’ll guarantee unforgettable wedding photos.

Not only that, but East Sussex boasts excellent transport links to London and beyond, making it as convenient as it is idyllic - a winning combination for you and your guests. This little corner of the country is packed full of wedding venues, whether you’re planning an intimate gathering with your closest friends and family, or a grand celebration that is sure to leave your guests talking.

Choosing the perfect wedding venue can be a difficult decision. With so many places to choose, it can be tricky to know where to start, so we’ve done the heavy lifting and curated a list of the very best wedding venues East Sussex has to offer. If anything catches your eye, simply click ‘find out more’ to get more information about capacities, packages, and availability. Who knows? Maybe you'll book your dream wedding venue today...

Wadhurst Castle, Wadhurst

What: It doesn’t get much better than saying ‘I do’ in a castle. Set across 140 acres of private grounds, this exclusive-use venue feels worlds away from everyday life, adding a touch of East Sussex countryside to your special day. There are several elegant locations on offer for ceremonies and receptions alike, from the Winter Garden complete with Victorian charm and exotic plants, to the Drawing Room for a slightly more formal celebration. Come summer, host your ceremony outside in the Walled Garden or on the South Lawn, and make the most of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Capacity: 30-100
Where: Wadhurst Castle, TN5 6DA
Find out more: Wadhurst Castle

Pelham House, Lewes

What: Tucked away in the heart of Lewes, Pelham House is a Georgian townhouse turned wedding venue that's bursting with timeless elegance for couples looking to keep things classic. Boasting landscaped grounds, and private gardens, Pelham House offers an exclusive hire space that works for a variety of celebrations. With capacity for up to 200 guests, and four distinctive event spaces, couples can choose from indoor ceremonies in the historic Goring Room or romantic alfresco receptions beneath the Gazebo. Each space brings its own character, with the possibility for couples to mix and match the rooms to create their dream day.
Capacity: 56-200
Where: St Andrews Lane, BN7 1UW
Find out more: Pelham House

Rockwater, Hove

What: If all you’ve ever dreamed of is a coastal celebration, then look no further than Rockwater Hove. This stylish seafront venue brings soft neutral tones, statement lighting, and, of course, huge floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the sea beyond. The Lodge can host 15 to 120 guests and comes with a retractable roof, while the rooftop terrace caters to 200 standing with unbeatable sunset views. Menus here can be tailored to fit your needs, with everything from a sit-down seafood wedding breakfast, to a relaxed reception catered by Rockwater's very own Burger Truck or Shack by the Shore.
Capacity: 100-200
Where: Western Esplanade, BN3 4FA
Find out more: Rockwater - Hove

The Bell in Ticehurst, Ticehurst

What: This 16th-century coaching inn has been transformed into an eclectic countryside wedding venue, packed full of personality and charm for couples who are looking to stand out. Think vintage velvet seating, ornate chandeliers and striking woodland murals that hang on the walls. The Big Room is best placed for ceremonies and receptions, with space for 90 guests seated or 120 standing. For more intimate celebrations, head to The Stables with space for just 30 of your closest friends and family.
Capacity: 30-90
Where: High Street, TN5 7AS
Find out more: The Bell in Ticehurst

Briar House Barns, Crowborough

What: Briar House Barns is a family-built wedding venue, nestled in the heart of the East Sussex countryside. Looking to add a rustic touch to your celebration? You’ll find it here. Once a working pig farm, the estate has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind space, bursting with charm and surrounded by acres of fields and woodland. The Great Barn is ideal for large-scale weddings, accommodating up to 1,000 guests, with access to your own terrace, dancefloor, and space for a live band or DJ. For something smaller and more intimate, The Stone Barn can host up to 40 guests for a wedding breakfast, or up to 70 for your ceremony.
Capacity: 40-1,000
Where: Dewlands Hill, TN6 3RU
Find out more: Briar House Barns

Wickerwood Farm, Heathfield

What: For couples who are looking to get in touch with nature for their special day, there is no finer choice than Wickerwood Farm. This tipi wedding venue offers something totally unique, boasting years of experience in the prop-making industry, that results in a celebration straight off Pinterest - think antique rugs as you walk down the aisle, with guests comfortably seated on plush, velvet armchairs. While Wickerwood Farm doesn’t have a wedding license, you can still hire it for a magical wedding reception. You'll just have to host the legal bit elsewhere. 
Capacity: Up to 120 guests
Where: Marle Green, TN21 9HN
Find out more: Wickerwood Farm

Blackstock Country Estate, Hellingly

What: Blackstock Country Estate is a tranquil countryside wedding venue that’s just a short drive from both Brighton and Tunbridge Wells, making it easily accessible for guests coming from further afield. Here, happy couples can choose from two beautifully restored barns - The Tudor and The Granary - which can be hired individually or together for exclusive use of the venue. Host a ceremony for up to 150 guests, before heading out onto the patio for a drinks and canape reception against the backdrop of the sprawling Sussex Downs. Turn your celebration into a weekend getaway with on-site accomodation available for you and your guests.
Capacity: Up to 150 guests
Where: Grove Hill, BN27 4HF
Find out more: Blackstock Country Estate

Brickwall House, Rye

What: Steeped in 300 years of history, Brickwall House is a magnificent Grade-I listed Jacobean manor, for couples searching for a statement-making spot. There's even a stately driveway and intricate topiary gardens! Inside, you'll find antique-filled spaces, sprawling staircases and several versatile reception rooms that can host everything from a lavish wedding banquet to an intimate ceremony. There are several equally impressive outdoor spaces where you can tie the knot, with exclusive hire of the entire estate available for complete privacy and flexibility.
Capacity: Up to 70 guests
Where: Brickwall House, TN31 6NL
Find out more: Brickwall House

Hendall Manor, Uckfield

What: Hendall Manor Barns is a beautifully restored 17th-century stone barn found just outside of Heron’s Ghyll. Surrounded by the East Sussex countryside for as far as the eye can see, this idyllic location is perfect for those looking for a rural escape for their big day. What makes Hendall Manor stand out is that there are no pre-set packages. Instead, you’ll find a stunning blank canvas that gives you and your spouse the freedom to create your day exactly as you envisioned it. Whether you’re looking to turn your wedding breakfast into a vintage afternoon tea ceremony, or host an elegant BBQ on the south-facing Lawn, you can really make your wedding day one to remember.
Capacity: Up to 150 guests
Where: Heron's Ghyll, TN22 4BU
Find out more: Hendall Manor

The Pilgrims Rest, Battle

What: Found in the medieval town of Battle, The Pilgrims Rest is bursting with heart and soul, bringing 600 years of history to this little corner of East Sussex. Licensed for weddings and civil ceremonies, the venue offers exclusive-use hire, allowing couples to truly immerse themselves in its charm, complete with exposed beams, large fireplaces, and even a secret tunnel beneath its walls. The Great Hall and the Dining Room can both seat up to 50, with seasonal decor to add an extra touch of personality to your celebration. Expect autumnal garlands and pumpkins, or Alpine-style furs and glass baubles come winter.
Capacity: 50-90
Where: 1 High Street, TN33 0AE
Find out more: The Pilgrims Rest

Still not found what you're looking for? Turn your special day into a fairytale at one of the UK's best castle wedding venues.