Sussex Circus School Wedding: What It's Really Like
If you're dreaming of a wedding that feels nothing like a wedding - think big top tents, string lights, and a field that goes on forever - let's talk about Sussex Circus School. I've photographed weddings here before, and it's one of the most refreshingly different venues I get to work in. Here's everything I think you should know before you book it.
Where Is Sussex Circus School, and What's the Vibe?
Tucked away in Hailsham, Sussex Circus School is properly out in the countryside, surrounded by green fields, and that lovely feeling of being tucked away from everything. It's not the easiest spot to reach by public transport, so heads up: your guests will mostly need to drive, grab a taxi, or you could organise a coach to ferry everyone in from somewhere more central (Brighton isn't far at all, so a coach from there works brilliantly).
The upside of being out in the sticks is that parking is a total non-issue. There's a massive field for it, so you don't have to worry about anyone struggling to find a spot.
The Space Itself
The heart of the venue is a huge circus tent - this is where your reception and evening party will happen, and it's got a proper "we're doing something different" energy the second you walk in.
Outside, there's a lawn with benches, which is perfect if you want to do a BBQ-style setup or just want people to relax outdoors with a drink between the ceremony and the party. It's a lovely, low-key contrast to the big top itself.
One practical thing to flag: the loos are campsite-style and a bit of a walk down the field from the tent. It's fine for most guests, but worth keeping in mind for any older relatives or anyone who might struggle with the distance - maybe factor in a golf buggy or just give people a heads up in advance.
Altogether, it's a setup that really suits couples who want something non-traditional. If you're not fussed about a manicured country house or a classic marquee-on-a-lawn look, and you'd rather your wedding felt a bit like running away to join the circus (in the best way), this is your venue.
What It's Like to Shoot a Wedding Here (From a Photographer's Point of View)
I love shooting at Sussex Circus School - it's such a fun change of pace. That said, here's my one big tip if you're booking it: ask the venue to open up as many sides of the tent as possible.
The tent walls are a dark navy blue, and while that's brilliant for setting the mood during the party (or if there are circus performers doing their thing), it also blocks out a lot of natural light. If those sides stay closed all day, things can get quite dim inside for photos. Opening them up lets daylight flood in and completely changes the feel of your photos - brighter, airier, and much easier for me to capture all those little candid moments happening around the room.
Best Photo Spots at Sussex Circus School
1. Walking away from the tent This one's brilliant if you want photos that really show off the whole venue - the scale of the tent, the field around it, that "look where we got married" wow factor. It's a great spot for couple portraits where the venue itself becomes part of the story.
2. The meadow Save this one for golden hour. The sunsets here are genuinely gorgeous, and the open meadow gives us so much room to play with light, silhouettes, and that warm glow that makes evening portraits feel a bit magic.
Pros and Things to Consider
What's great:
- It's completely unique - nobody's going to mistake your wedding photos for anyone else's
- The venue can arrange circus performers and other fun entertainment, which is a brilliant way to keep guests entertained
- It's enormous, so there's loads of room to spread out, whether that's for a huge dance floor or just breathing space between activities
What to keep in mind:
- The loos are a bit of a trek from the tent, so it's worth planning for that, especially for guests who might find the walk tricky
- The tent can be dark inside, so make opening the sides part of your setup plan (both for atmosphere and for photos)
Quick Questions Answered
How many guests can Sussex Circus School hold? Around 50-100 for the day, and up to 300 in the evening - so it works well whether you're planning an intimate day ceremony with a bigger evening bash, or something sizeable throughout.
Can you have a legal ceremony there? I'm not 100% sure on this one - it's worth checking directly with the venue and with the Brighton and Hove registrars. Some couples get their legal bit done first at Brighton Town Hall and then have their "real" ceremony (the one with all the personal touches) here.
Does it allow weekend weddings? Yes, weekend weddings are absolutely fine here.
Is there accommodation on-site? There is - you can camp on-site, which fits the whole vibe perfectly. Imagine waking up the morning after your wedding, still surrounded by the field where you danced the night before.
Thinking About Getting Married at Sussex Circus School?
If a big top wedding surrounded by fields sounds like your kind of day, I'd genuinely love to hear about your plans. I've photographed weddings here before, so I know the space well - from the best light at different times of day to how to make the most of that meadow at sunset. I can help you think through your timeline too, so we make sure we're not fighting the light (or missing golden hour) on the day itself.
Get in touch and let's chat about your day.
