The Pilgrims Rest is a 600 hundred year old Wealden Hall House situated in the medieval town of Battle in East Sussex - right in the heart of 1066 country.
With endless features from huge inglenook fireplaces to ancient beams; linenfold doors to oak floors, The Pilgrims Rest is an historic gem. It even has ancient witch’s marks to ward off evil spirits and a secret tunnel that runs beneath the Abbey walls.
Perfect for small weddings, intimate weddings and those a little larger, The Pilgrims Rest is a wedding venue with a difference. There are no hidden extras, no corkage charges and no fixed suppliers, giving you the choice to have a DIY wedding, a fully catered wedding or anything in between. The Pilgrims Rest is an exclusive use wedding venue run by our friendly and professional team who will guide you on the run up to, and on the day of, your wedding, ensuring your day runs seamlessly.
A stunning backdrop for your wedding without the added expense of venue styling and prop hire. Professionally designed and styled to need little decoration, but one you can add to and make your own, every detail has been carefully considered creating a wedding venue that is beautiful yet relaxed; affordable yet aspirational.
Quite simply a truly magical place to tie the knot. Far more than just a beautiful building; this grand old lady has historic soul. She has hosted celebrations from Medieval banquets to Georgian balls, Victorian luncheons to Edwardian tea dances. Over the centuries flagons of ale, goblets of wine and flutes of champagne have been consumed beneath her eaves, to the sounds of merriment and laughter flooding through her walls.
Perfect for weddings all year round; during the warmer months and when the sun is shining - your guests can flood out into the pretty cottage gardens. And as the evenings start to draw in, stoke up the fires, light the candles, then watch as this grand old lady sparkles into life.
Personal Message from the Manager
Name of Wedding Contact: Amy
Hello, I am Amy. I love working at The Pilgrims Rest as we are a small, happy team. The venue is stunning and full of incredible architectural features and love how flexible it is. It is such a joy to meet so many creative and interesting couples They all put their own spin on the venue whether great or small. Every wedding is so different which makes my job great fun. I look forward to meeting you!
We are right next to Battle Abbey behind the pretty rose garden - you can't miss us! There are plenty of hotels and B&Bs within walking distance of the venue - some with parking. The train station is about a 10 minute walk away which goes from Charing Cross and Tunbridge Wells in one direction and Hastings in the other. East Sussex has no motorways which is what makes it particularly beautiful. Take the A21 from the M25, go straight on and you will arrive in Battle. Turn left at the roundabout with King Harold's sculpture and when you see the gate house of Battle Abbey turn right. We are right next to it.
Describe the best wedding that happened at The Pilgrims Rest?
All our weddings are so different which is what we love about our venue. By being so flexible couples are able to have their wedding just how they want it and really enjoy themselves on the day.
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Keep the guest list small and of people who matter to you.
What’s your favourite personal touch you’ve seen at a wedding?
It would definitely have to be one of our bride's dog walking her up the aisle.
Describe The Pilgrims Rest in 5 adjectives
The, Best, Venue, In, Sussex!
Where’s the best photo spot at The Pilgrims Rest?
The window overlooking The Abbey in the Bryant Bridal Room has wonderful light and beautiful old windows. With such an amazing historic building there are lots of great backdrops for photographs from old sandstone walls to stunning panelling.
Have you had any celebrity guest or wedding at The Pilgrims Rest?
Yes, but that would be telling!
What’s your favourite canapé?
An old timer - devils on horseback
What’s your favourite midnight treat?
Chocolate of any type
What is The Pilgrims Rest most unique feature?
The vaulted Great Hall for the ceremony and then dancing with its inglenook fireplace.
What part of your business are you most proud of?
It is hard to pick one part. Our team are incredible and nothing is ever too much trouble and the building itself is extraordinary. We are very lucky to have both.