Please check the website for current opening times.
The oldest brick building of note still standing in the country, Herstmonceux Castle was also once the largest private home in fifteenth century England. Today, the majestic, moated castle is the centrepiece of a beautiful 300 acre estate. Beyond formal gardens like the Rose, Elizabethan and Shakespeare, the grounds extend into open areas and woodland that include a children’s play area, a rope maze, and a Georgian-style folly – all ideal for families to explore.
Read more about Herstmonceux Castle.
Tours of the castle
The castle operates as an International Study Centre and as such, the interior is not freely open to the public. However, it is hoped that informative talks to socially-distanced groups in the castle ballroom can take place once the current government restrictions have been eased sufficiently and it is safe to do so. Please check website and social media for updates.
Dogs
Herstmonceux Castle is dog friendly, with dogs on leads allowed in the grounds and gardens.
International Study Centre
Herstmonceux Castle is the UK campus of Queen's University in Canada.
While you're here
The Observatory Science Centre is also part of the Herstmonceux estate and well worth a visit.
Find out more about things to do in Herstmonceux and what's on in Herstmonceux.
Accommodation
Here are some suggestions of where to stay in Herstmonceux, together with food and drink in Herstmonceux.
Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
---|---|
Adult ticket | £8.00 per ticket |
Concession ticket | £7.00 per ticket |
Child (4-17 years) | £3.50 per ticket |
Children under 4 | Free |
Group Rates & Season tickets are available. Please see website or call 01323 834457.
Signposted from A272 Road at Herstmonceux two miles east of village on Boreham Street to Pevensey road. Look for sign to Herstmonceux Castle on A271 or A27.
Due to Herstmonceux's rural location, it is not easily accessible by public transport. The Cuckmere Community Bus does operate a seasonal service (49) to the estate from Eastbourne each Wednesday. More info at www.cuckmerebuses.org.uk/ The nearest mainline railway station is Polegate which then requires a taxi journey to Hestmonceux Castle Estate.
February - March (last admission 3pm) (1 Jan 2023 - 31 Mar 2023) | ||
---|---|---|
Day | Times | |
Monday - Sunday | 10:00 | - 17:00 |
April - September (last admission 5pm) (1 Apr 2023 - 30 Sept 2023) | ||
---|---|---|
Day | Times | |
Monday - Sunday | 10:00 | - 19:00 |
October - November (last admission 3pm) (1 Oct 2023 - 30 Nov 2023) | ||
---|---|---|
Day | Times | |
Monday - Sunday | 10:00 | - 17:00 |
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