The 300-acre Herstmonceux Castle Estate offers formal gardens to explore along with woodland trails, meadows and lakes, set around the majestic 15th century moated castle. Sympathetic management of the gardens and grounds has led to a rich abundance of flora and fauna. Any work undertaken by the dedicated estate team is respectful of the natural and historical features as well as being in keeping with the rhythm of the seasons.

From tulips, snowdrops, daffodils, magnolias and bluebells in spring, the colourful herbaceous borders and wildflower meadows of summer, through to the glorious hues of autumn, there is much for visitors to admire.

The formal gardens include the Elizabethan, with its Grade II listed walls that date back to at least 1570, the Sundial and Rose, the Shakespeare and Apothecary, along with the Shady, Lower and Magic Gardens. Beyond these are the woodland, meadows and lakes, and even a folly in the style of a Georgian house with its own walled garden. For younger visitors there is an imaginative outdoor play area plus a giant tree swing in the woodland, while the Marlow Rope Maze is a fun challenge for all the family. Dogs are welcome but kept on a lead at all times please.