Join one of our guided tours to discover the history of the castle. Step inside one of Britain’s earliest brick-built castles and discover the stories behind Herstmonceux Castle. Our guided tours bring the estate’s history to life, from medieval architecture and Tudor intrigue to its later role as an international study centre for Queen’s University Canada. Led by knowledgeable guides, each tour offers the chance to explore parts of the castle interior while learning about the people, events, and ideas that have shaped the estate over nearly 600 years. Please note that Herstmonceux Castle is a working academic building rather than a furnished historic house. While tours explore the castle’s architecture, history, and stories, some interior spaces reflect its current role as an international study centre and educational campus. Tours last approximately 75 minutes. The castle was commissioned by Sir Roger Fiennes, Treasurer to the Household of Henry VI, and built around a central courtyard and moat. It once contained more than 140 rooms and remains one of the most striking historic buildings in East Sussex. In 1993, Dr Alfred Bader and his wife Isabel funded Queen’s purchase of the castle, helping establish the estate as an international campus where students from around the world continue to live and study today. The estate offers visitors the chance to combine history, nature, and discovery in one visit. Children are welcome on our guided castle tours, but please consider whether the tour’s length and nature will be suitable for them. The guided tour includes a significant number of stairs, which may be difficult for visitors with limited mobility to access. Private guided tours can be booked in advance by emailing the castle. Bookings must be made at least 24 hours before your preferred tour time and are subject to availability.
