Have you noticed that a journey from Surrey's southeastern border leads you to one of the oldest brick structures still standing in the UK? With its vast property and spectacular gardens spanning around 300 acres, it is an ideal destination for families to go out.
The castle of Helsthmontse in Halesham, north of Eastbourne, is this historic gem. Pronounced “Helst Mont Zau,” the castle was built around 1441 by Sir Roger Fiennes, the treasurer of the family of Henry VI. Unfortunately, the castle was demolished in 1777, leaving only the exterior walls intact.
Colonel Claude Lawser purchased the castle in 1913 and in 1933 he requested the repair by Ir Paul Latham. Today, Hearst Monsk Castle works as the UK campus of Queen's University in Canada.
Things to do
The castle is open to the public during the winter, but when the garden explodes in spring and summer, it opens doors for everyone to enjoy. The castle grounds feature a variety of gardens, each with its own unique theme.
The formal gardens with meticulously placed displays contrast with wild meadows strewn with a variety of wild flowers. There are at least eight different gardens, including Elizabethan gardens, with Crockett lawns and Queen'swalk, decorated with Irish yew trees and dried moats.
The enclosed garden features herbaceous perennials, spring pink tulips and magnolia trees. In early summer, we see rambling roses blooming on the walls of our garden.
Surrounded by the castle's original walled garden is a sundial and rose garden. The central sundial surrounded by six other people features a bust of Sir John Flamsshusteed in honor of the royal Greenwich Observatory, once housed on the castle grounds.
The observatory was open on the premises from 1946 to 1989. Garden visitors can admire David Austin's extensive collection of English roses, along with hybrid tea and shrub roses decorating the bed.
Pharmacist Garden offers a variety of medicinal and culinary herbs. This fragrant garden is decorated with beds of plants filled with lemon verbena, tiger grass and bay trees.
Guests can soak up the aromatic scent of the garden while learning about the use of each herb.
Some gardens have wheelchair access, while others provide the perfect environment for a picnic or simply incorporate picturesque surroundings. Lead dogs are welcome and children have a play area.
Anyone who wants to explore the castle's interior must purchase a guided tour ticket. Because free roaming is not permitted. Many events take place on the castle grounds during the summer.
These include falconry displays, comedy shows and exhibits. The cafe and terrace offer stunning views of the medieval castle, offering an ideal location for a coffee or tea break with slices of cake.
More information
Opening hours
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 hours (November 2025 to March 2026)
Admission and tickets
Garden and Ground Admission Day Ticket: Adults £10, Students £8, Children £4-17, Children under 4 years old free, Caregivers and Garden Tour: £4
Tour time
April to June 11th, 1pm, 3pm to September 11th, 1pm, 3pm, 5pm to December: Confirmed
Accessibility
The main garden has wheelchair access. There is a parking lot near the disabled toilet, access to the courtyard, manual café fees are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and you can make a reservation by calling 01323 833816.
Fun for the family
Childrenlow Rope Mazetree Swingactivity Seat Play Area
