Dine at the Barn Ashburnham Place Sussex

We invite you to join us for a unique dining experience: “Dine in the Barn,” set within the historic walls of Ashburnham Place’s abundant kitchen garden.

Following a series of celebrated events in recent years, we’re delighted to welcome just 25 guests per sitting for this intimate, slow-paced meal, rooted in sustainability and seasonality. Your day begins with a guided stroll through the garden, where you’ll enjoy a selection of freshly prepared bites and a non-alcoholic spritz while learning about our growing practices including a peek inside our artisan bakehouse. After the tour, you’ll be seated in the barn, overlooking the fruit tree orchard, heritage vegetables, and blooming borders, at our communal garden tables. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious, seasonal lunch inspired by the day’s harvest

About the Chef

James Kirby – Chef Director

James Kirby is Chef Director, where he oversees the food and beverage team and menu development with a focus on seasonal, sustainable cooking.

He was formerly Development Chef at Charlie Bigham’s, helping to drive product innovation and quality across the brand’s range of premium ready meals.

James was the owner of Cotto in Olympia, a Bib Gourmand–awarded restaurant. His background includes time in several of the UK’s top Michelin-starred kitchens, including Bibendum, The Greenhouse, Chez Nico, Alain Ducasse, and Pied à Terre.

With experience across both fine dining and food development, James brings a practical, ingredient-led approach to modern British cuisine.