ST Osyth Priory has been named the best wedding venue in the UK in an international awards ceremony.
The Clacton venue claimed the national title at the International Hotel Awards, just days after being named Wedding Venue of the Year 2026 at the Essex Wedding Awards.
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."
The International Hotel Awards represent the international five-star standard of hotel ratings and are the only organisation to present five-star accolades at an international level.
St Osyth Priory secured the UK title after competing against leading venues nationwide, progressing to the regional stage of the global competition.
The estate, which dates back to the 12th century, has been carefully restored over many years and now operates as a luxury venue for weddings, corporate events, and holiday accommodation.
It is home to 16 listed buildings and was originally founded as a house for Augustinian canons before being transformed into a country residence by the 1st Lord Darcy of Chich in the 1550s.
Queen Elizabeth I is known to have visited the priory twice during her Royal Progress.
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St Osyth Priory was also a finalist in the Historic Wedding Venue of the Year category at the Essex Wedding Awards.
The estate has undergone a multi-million pound restoration programme in recent years, securing the future of one of the UK’s largest collections of ecclesiastical buildings.
This investment has helped preserve the site’s heritage while giving it a sustainable future as a viable economic future as a luxury venue for weddings, corporate events and holiday accommodation.
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