Herstmonceux | What's on in Hailsham

THE DAVIDSON AFFAIR

by Jenny Seale | Mar 23, 2026

THE DAVIDSON AFFAIR is a modern take on the events of Holy Week, based on the novel by Stuart Jackman. Executed for treason on Friday, Davidson (Jesus, the Son of David) is rumoured to be alive again on Sunday. Cass Tennel, TV reporter, flies to Jerusalem to investigate and finds himself plunged into a tense political crisis. Out of a tangle of conflicting reports, he struggles to construct a documentary programme, which will reflect the truth about Davidson. But what is the truth? And how can Tennel, his cameraman Greg, and the millions of viewers come to terms with it? Through interviews with Pilate, Caiaphas, Thomas, Zechariah, Mary Magdalen and Cleopas, the story unfolds. This production will be performed as an informal play for voices at All Saints Church, Herstmonceux, on Palm Sunday, March 29, at 6pm. Refreshments from 5pm. All welcome. Admission and refreshments are free of charge.

HERSTMONCEUX CASTLE ESTATE OPEN DAY

by Jenny Seale | Mar 23, 2026

A FREE OPEN DAY awaits at Herstmonceux Castle Estate when you will be welcomed to a special free Community Open Day on Saturday, 11 April. It is a chance to step inside the castle, explore the grounds and hear first-hand about the exciting projects shaping the future of the estate, from rewilding to the nationally significant water lily collection.
While the presentations in the ballroom require registration due to limited space, the rest of the day is open to everyone. Children can enjoy lawn games, face painting, dressing up and nature spotting around the grounds and the new Nuthatch Kitchen and Terrace will be open throughout the day for refreshments. This was a very popular event last year and many people were disappointed not to be able to get in to listen to the talk so do book early at https://herstmonceux-castle.com/event/community-open-day/.
Gates open at 9.30am and the presentation will begin at 10.30am with an information session, led by the Principal of Queen’s University, Canada (which runs Bader College and the estate), followed by a series of small presentations that will shine a light on the diverse range of activities taking place at Herstmonceux: There will be updates from the interim director of the estate, including a presentation on the rewilding project. The CEO of the Observatory Science Centre will share future plans and opportunities for collaborative activities. The head of gardens and grounds will share information regarding the incredible water lily collection on the estate – cultivated by the late Ken Warner, which has been awarded National Collection status by Plant Heritage. The head of academic and educational programming will share information on new developments, including the Historic Architecture and Heritage Conservation Programme. Attendees can ask questions following the presentations.

JUMBLE SALE

by Jenny Seale | Mar 10, 2026

All donations welcome e.g. bric-a-brac, cakes, clothes, tombola prizes. These can be dropped off on the day between 10am and 11.30am or please contact Karen on 01435 830787 to arrange a possible collection. Any help on the day, either setting up in the morning or selling and clearing up in the afternoon would be greatly appreciated.

In aid of Herstmonceux Cricket Club.