A barn built for celebrating
The main barn seats up to 180 guests for dinner and holds up to 250 for a standing reception, so it works just as well for a 40-person team as it does for a whole-company celebration. It has a raised dancefloor and a fully stocked bar, and at Christmas it is dressed with fairy lights and black-and-gold styling for a proper festive feel the moment your guests walk in.
Away from the main barn there are terraces and breakout areas, which are perfect for quieter conversations, a festive drinks reception or simply a breath of fresh countryside air between courses.
Festive food your team will remember
A good Christmas dinner can make the whole evening. Selden Barns works with trusted catering partners, including Ren’s Kitchen, to create seasonal menus, from relaxed festive buffets to a full seated Christmas feast. Dietary requirements are planned in from the start, so everyone at the table is looked after. You can see more on our catering page.
Easy to reach from across Sussex
Selden Barns sits just off the old Arundel Road at Patching, close to the A27 and A24. Worthing and Arundel are minutes away, and Brighton, Chichester and Horsham are all within around half an hour. That makes it a practical choice for companies with teams spread along the coast and inland.
The venue also has EV chargers and disabled access, and our dedicated events team is on hand on the day so you can enjoy the party rather than manage it.
Stay the night
One of the biggest headaches with any Christmas party is getting everyone home safely. Selden Barns has nine on-site bedrooms, including The Gatehouse suite with its private courtyard and roll-top bath. Rooms can be booked for directors, guests travelling from further afield or anyone who would rather not worry about a late taxi. You can find out more about our accommodation.
More than a sit-down dinner
Christmas does not have to mean the same format every year. The barns can be styled to suit almost any theme, so if your team would enjoy a casino night, a black-tie awards evening or a festive party with a twist, we will dress the venue to match. Combining your Christmas party with an end-of-year awards ceremony is a great way to thank your team and celebrate the year in one evening.
Missed the December rush? Celebrate in the new year
December dates book up quickly, and more companies are now choosing to hold their celebration in January, when diaries are calmer and staff have more energy after the festive break. Selden Barns is offering half-price venue hire on selected dates from January to May 2027 for corporate events and parties, which makes a new year team celebration excellent value. Ask us about available dates.
Five tips for planning your work Christmas party
- Book early. The most popular Friday and Saturday dates in December go first, so secure your date as soon as you have a rough headcount.
- Agree a budget per head. Knowing what you can spend per person makes it far easier to choose between menus, drinks packages and entertainment.
- Collect dietary requirements in advance. A simple form sent out with the invitation saves a lot of last-minute stress.
- Plan the journey home. Arrange taxis or a minibus, or book on-site rooms, so everyone can relax.
- Keep it inclusive. Not everyone drinks or dances, so a mix of activities, good food and quieter spaces helps the whole team enjoy the night.
Frequently asked questions
How many guests can Selden Barns hold for a Christmas party? The main barn seats up to 180 guests for dinner and up to 250 for a standing reception.
Will we have the venue to ourselves? Yes. Selden Barns is exclusive use, so your company is the only party at the venue.
Can guests stay overnight? Yes. There are nine on-site bedrooms, including The Gatehouse suite.
Where is Selden Barns? Selden Barns is at 146 Selden Lane, Patching, West Sussex, BN13 3UL, between Worthing and Arundel in the South Downs National Park.
Do you host other corporate events? Yes. We also host conferences, training days, awards dinners, summer parties and client hospitality. See our corporate events page.
Book your Christmas party at Selden Barns
If you are looking for a Christmas party venue in Sussex that feels special, gives your team the whole place to themselves and takes the stress out of the evening, we would love to hear from you.
Call us on 01903 372 990, email enquiries@seldenbarns.co.uk or send us an enquiry. If you would like to see the barns before you book, you are very welcome to request a tour.