Welcome to the Wild Flower Meadow
Not a part of the estate that plays host to many visitors, our wild flower meadow is an oasis of calm that you can wander though at your leisure. It also offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including Herstmonceux Place. The original house was enlarged in 1777 using bricks from Herstmonceux Castle which was partially dismantled for this purpose. You can find out more on one of our regulars castle tours – see website for dates and times.
It has taken several years to transform the meadow from an almost monoculture of grass to a rich and diverse habitat that includes yellow rattle (rhinanthus minor), common spotted orchid (rhinanthus mino), yarrow (achillea millefolium) and common sorrel (rumex acetosa) together with many other varieties. Above the daisies, buttercups, and also the wild orchids that have established themselves in certain areas of the meadow, you are likely to find bees and dragonflies whirring around.
A black mulberry tree, planted in the centre of the meadow last year, has really taken to its new home and in time will become an attractive centrepiece. The edible black fruit is richly flavoured and can be used to make pies, tarts, wines, cordials, and herbal teas. It is also a food source for the local wildlife.
You can find the wild flower meadow by following the line of 300 year-old chestnut trees up to the start of the woodland. Look for a stile on your left to gain access to it.
Come and enjoy the meadow at its best over the next couple of months!