Fairytale castle with 300 acres and grand gardens perfect for family outing
Did you know one of the UK's oldest brick structures is still standing? With an expansive estate covering roughly 300 acres and stunning gardens, it's the perfect spot for a family outing this summer if you're on your travels.
This historical treasure is Herstmonceux Castle, located in Hailsham, just north of Eastbourne. Pronounced 'herst-mon-zoo', the castle was erected around 1441 by Sir Roger Fiennes, Treasurer of the Household for King Henry VI. Regrettably, the castle was dismantled in 1777, leaving only the exterior walls intact.
Colonel Claude Lowther bought the castle in 1913 and commissioned its restoration by Sir Paul Latham in 1933. Today, Herstmonceux Castle serves as the UK campus for Queen's University of Canada, welcoming international students who come to study in this enchanting, Hogwarts-esque environment, reports SurreyLive.
Things to do
While the castle is closed to the public during the winter months, it opens its doors for all to enjoy once the gardens burst into bloom in the spring and summer. The castle grounds feature a diverse array of gardens, each with its own unique theme.
Formal gardens with meticulously arranged displays contrast with wild meadows sprinkled with a variety of wildflowers. There are at least eight distinct gardens, including the Elizabethan Garden, complete with croquet lawns, and Queens Walk, adorned with Irish yew trees and a dry moat.
The secluded garden is a haven for herbaceous perennials, springtime pink tulips and magnolia trees. As summer approaches, rambling roses burst into bloom against the garden walls.
Tucked away within the castle's original walled garden is the Sundial and Rose Garden. A central sundial, surrounded by six others, features a bust of Sir John Flamsteed as a nod to the Royal Greenwich Observatory that once resided within the castle grounds.
From 1946 until 1989, the observatory functioned on site. Visitors to the garden can marvel at an extensive collection of David Austin English roses, along with hybrid tea and shrub roses embellishing the beds.
The Apothecary Garden presents a variety of medicinal and culinary herbs. This aromatic garden displays raised plant beds filled with lemon verbena, tiger grass and bay trees.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the fragrant scents of the garden whilst learning about the uses of each herb, with informative labels dotted around the area.
Several gardens are wheelchair accessible, while others provide the perfect backdrop for picnics or simply soaking up the picturesque surroundings. Dogs on leads are welcome, and a play area is available for children.
Those wishing to explore the castle interior will need to purchase a guided tour ticket, as free roaming inside is not allowed. A host of events take place within the castle grounds throughout the summer.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as falconry displays, comedy shows and exhibitions. The on-site café and terrace, with their breathtaking views of the medieval castle, provide the perfect setting for a coffee or tea break, complemented by a slice of cake.
More information
Opening times
April to June: 10am to 5pm (last admission 3pm)
July to September: 10am to 7pm (last admission 5pm)
October: 10am to 5pm (last admission 3pm)
Winter opening times (Nov 2025 to March 2026) to be confirmed
Admission and tickets
Gardens and grounds admission day ticket: Adults £10, students £8, children four to 17 £5 and free for children under four and for carers
Castle and garden tours: £4
Tour times
April to June 11am, 1pm and 3pm
July to September 11am, 1pm, 3pm and 5pm
October to December: to be confirmed
Accessibility
The main gardens are wheelchair accessible with reserved parking nearby close to the disabled toilet facility
Ramp access to the courtyard and café
Two manual wheelchairs are available on first come first served basis and can be reserved by calling 01323 833816
Fun for the family
Play area for children
Marlow Rope Maze
Tree swing
Activity sheets
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