We are thrilled to announce that this May Bank Holiday, Herstmonceux Castle Estate will transport visitors back over 600 years for an immersive Medieval Heritage Weekend.

Taking place across the first May Bank Holiday (Saturday 2nd to Monday 4th May), this three-day event celebrates the very origins of our castle—a fortress built in 1441 by Sir Roger Fiennes, Treasurer of the Household to Henry VI.

What to Expect:

Step into the past and experience history brought vividly to life. Throughout the weekend, the castle grounds will be filled with:

  • Authentic Reenactment: Highly skilled reenactors in period costume will bring medieval life to the grounds, from knightly combat displays to daily camp life.

  • Combat Demonstrations: Witness the clash of sword and shield as our reenactors stage thrilling combat displays.

  • Artisan Crafts & Demonstrations: Watch skilled craftspeople demonstrate traditional medieval trades and techniques—a living link to the very crafts that built and sustained this castle.

  • Family Entertainment: With activities for all ages, there’s something to captivate every family member.

This is more than an event; it’s an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of those who lived, worked, and fought here six centuries ago. With strong educational and cultural value at its heart, the Medieval Heritage Weekend offers a rare chance to connect with the rich tapestry of our history.

Event Details:

  • Dates: Saturday 2nd – Monday 4th May

  • Times: 10.00am – 5.00pm (last entry 4.00pm)

  • Day tickets: £18 for adults and £8 for children – under 4’s are free – Buy tickets here

We look forward to welcoming you to a weekend of history, spectacle, and family fun.

https://herstmonceux-castle.com/event/medieval-heritage-weekend/

HISTORICAL SOCIETY TALK: ASHBURNHAM PLACE

ASHBURNHAM PLACE is the subject of a talk at the next meeting of Hailsham Historical and Natural History Society when Jay Ashworth will be delivering the talk which covers the year 1066 to the present day.

The Hailsham Historical and Natural History Society meet on the first Wednesday of every month at the Charles Hunt Centre, Vicarage Field, Hailsham, BN27 1BG at 7 for 7.30pm.
Access is from Vicarage Field East Car Park (next to Waitrose). If you would like to come along to a meeting, visitors are very welcome to pay £3 on the door. Members attend talks free and membership is £15 annually, renewable each January. Enquiries: T: 01323 843102,
M: 07850 893997, E: chair@hailshamhistoricalsociety.co.uk

Ravel at 150 – The Wealden Trio at Michelham Priory

Ravel’s piano trio is a ground breaking work written at the outbreak of World War One, and we would like to mark the 150th anniversary of his birth with a performance of this wonderful piece.

Three Sussex musicians come together to form The Wealden Trio, pianist William Hancox, violinist Jonathan Truscott and cellist Rachel Firmager.

The programme will also include Fauré’s late Trio in D minor.

Tickets include a visit to the Priory so do come early!

Tickets at the door or from our website https://musicboxwealden.co.uk/concert/c029-the-wealden-trio/

AUDIO VISUAL COLOUR EXTRAVAGANZA

AN AUDIO-VISUAL EXTRAVAGANZA is being put on by the Hailsham Photographic Society.  The ever popular Colour Show tickets cost just £8 pounds and are available from its sponsors, Stevens and Carter Estate Agents, 47 High St. Hailsham and also from Club Members or via the Contact Us tab on the Society’s website at www.hailshamphotographicsociety.co.uk. This show is 2 hours of stunning images and audio videos from the Society’s Members covering a wide range of topics. With many beautiful examples of photographic subjects from landscape, travel, portraits, abstract, street photography and natural history. Whether you are looking for travel or photographic inspiration for the forthcoming year or simply delighting in the many beautiful images and short video sequences spent in a friendly and convivial atmosphere there will certainly be something for everyone to enjoy. With ample free parking nearby and with refreshments and a raffle also available everyone is invited to come along and enjoy the show. This Colour Show will help to directly support and raise money for the Children with Cancer Fund and representatives from the charity will be available during the Show to explain a little more about their valuable work. Please do go along and offer your support.