We did it! Our fantastic team at St Osyth Priory are celebrating after winning both the Wedding Venue of the Year 2026 at the Essex Wedding Awards and Best Wedding Venue at the International Hotel Awards… and we could not be prouder. The prestigious Essex Wedding Awards recognise all aspects of the county’s impressive wedding industry from categories for the make-up artist of the year to wedding dress retailer, florist, DJ, events, entertainment and many more. In addition to our success for the best venue award, the priory was also a finalist in the category for the Historic Wedding Venue of the Year. The standard of finalists across all the categories was extraordinarily high with other highly acclaimed venues including Downham Hall, Cromwell Manor, East Mersea Hall and Wivenhoe House. So, it was absolutely brilliant when St Osyth Priory was announced as the winner for the Wedding Venue of the Year award, as the team enjoyed the event’s black-tie gala dinner at Chelmsford City Racecourse. But further reason to celebrate was announced within a matter of days, as our International Hotel Awards win was secured in the Best Wedding Venue in the UK category. The International Hotel Awards see venues of all kinds celebrated on the world stage, the only organisation to represent 5-star accolades at an international level, so our team were over the moon with this recognition of years of meticulous work.  Following the award wins, William Grinsted, Managing Director of the St Osyth Priory Estate, said: “To be recognised as Essex's Wedding Venue of the Year and the Best Wedding Venue in the United Kingdom is an extraordinary honour. The awards reflect the dedication of our team, who work tirelessly to ensure every couple experiences something truly exceptional. “We are immensely proud of the history and beauty of St Osyth Priory. To see it celebrated in Essex and on an international stage, amongst the most distinguished venues in the world, is deeply gratifying.” St Osyth Priory has become an iconic destination for weddings, with years of work having been carried out to preserve, restore and protect the estate’s 16 listed buildings which are set within the Grade II registered historic park and garden. Couples getting married at the priory can choose to exchange their vows in the historic Abbots Tower Ruins or in the beautifully restored Gallery and the stunning 350 acre country estate is an idyllic setting for an unforgettable celebration. The priory oozes elegance and now newly-weds and their guests can relax in beautifully renovated luxurious accommodation. If you’d like to discuss your wedding plans, call us on 01206 430160 or email us at info@stosythpriory.co.uk .

We are thrilled to invite you to our Wedding Showcase at the stunning St. Osyth Priory on Sunday, 25th of January, from 11am – 3pm.