Location

In the heart of the Sussex Weald, Herstmonceux is a picture postcard village with its own 15th century moat castle set among carefully maintained Elizabethan gardens and parkland. Visit the tearoom, visitors’ centre, nature trail and children’s woodland play area and the Royal Greenwich conservatory. The nearest railway station is Castle Cary.

Directions

From the A269 (signposted Battle) At mini-roundabout continue forward onto the A269 Continue forward onto the A271 Turn left onto Comphurst Lane

Hailsham – 5 miles

A small country market town that is rich in history and varied architect. The charming high street has a diverse range of shops and the main focal point of the town is St Marys Church which is floodlit in the evening. Relax in one of the town’s local pubs and restaurants or visit the local heritage centre to learn more about the local history.

Battle Abbey – 8 miles

Battle Abbey was founded around 1070 by William the Conqueror, on the site of the Battle of Hastings. The best-preserved and most impressive part of the abbey is the great gate-house, the finest of all surviving medieval abbey entrances, which was built around 1338. There is an exhibition on the build-up to the Battle of Hastings. Collections include architectural stonework and archaeological finds

Pevensey Bay – 8 miles

Pevensey bay is where William the Conqueror first set foot in England and is steeped in history, explore the award winning sandy beach, nature reserve, castle and NapoleonicTowers

Drusilla’s Park – 11 miles

Rated number one attraction in the UK and only 11 miles away, Drusilla’s Park is a great fun filled family day out. With hundreds of fascinating animals such as meerkats, penguins, gibbons and lemurs to the indoor and outdoor play area with a mixture of climbing, swinging and sliding fun – you can be certain there will be plenty to entertain and excite everyone from the youngest to the oldest visitor.

Eastbourne – 14 miles

The traditional seaside town ofEastbournewith its beautiful carpet gardens lining the promenade between the pier and bandstand is an ideal place for a Sunday morning stroll or afternoon tea. The pier was built in the 1870?s, and has much to offer. Camera Obscura is an original 360 degree Victorian projector, the only pier with a fully functioning attraction of this type

Glyndebourne – 18 miles

Glyndebourne opera House was founded in 1934 by John Christie and his opera singer wife, Audrey Mildmay. Glyndebourne is committed to presenting opera of the highest quality, commissioning new work, developing new talent and reaching new audiences. Each summer it holds a Festival within its grounds and takes three productions around the country every autumn. Make an occasion of visiting Glyndebourne and come for the whole afternoon: you can explore the grounds, visit the Archive and Gallery or have a picnic on the lawn.

Lewes – 19 miles

The historic town of Lewes is nestled in the South Downs and is only 10 minutes away. There is much to see and do in this market town; why not explore the medieval streets with their wealth of independent shops selling anything from antiques, crafts & books to modern art or visit the past at the Anne of Cleves House and castle. Lewes is also home toSussex’s oldest brewery, on a sunny day sit outside the local pubs and smell the aroma of malt and hops waft over the River Ouse