UK's stunning fairytale castle with difficult to pronounce name and magnificent gardens

Did you realise that just an hour's journey from the south-eastern border of Surrey will lead you to one of the oldest brick structures still standing in the UK? With a sprawling estate spanning approximately 300 acres and magnificent, it's an ideal destination for a family outing.

, situated in Hailsham, a short distance north of, is this historic gem. Pronounced 'herst-mon-zoo', the castle was built around 1441 by Sir Roger Fiennes, Treasurer of the Household for King Henry VI. Unfortunately, the castle was dismantled in 1777, leaving only the exterior walls intact.

Colonel Claude Lowther purchased 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

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 . 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 enclosed garden is home to herbaceous perennials, springtime pink tulips and magnolia trees. Early summer sees rambling bloom against the garden walls.

Nestled within the castle's original walled garden lies the Sundial and Rose Garden. A central sundial, encircled by six others, features a bust of Sir John Flamsteed in tribute to the Royal Greenwich Observatory that was once housed within the castle grounds.

The observatory operated on site from 1946 until 1989. Visitors to the garden can admire an extensive collection of David Austin English roses, along with hybrid tea and shrub roses adorning the beds.

The Apothecary Garden offers a variety of medicinal and culinary herbs. This fragrant garden showcases raised plant beds filled with lemon verbena, tiger grass and bay trees.

Guests can immerse themselves in the aromatic scents of the garden whilst learning about the uses of each herb, with informative labels scattered throughout the area.

Several gardens are wheelchair accessible, while others provide the perfect setting for picnics or simply taking in 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 permitted. A host of events take place within the castle grounds throughout the summer.

These include falconry displays, comedy shows and exhibitions. A cafe and terrace, boasting stunning views of the medieval castle, offer the ideal spot for a coffee or tea break accompanied 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