A sanctuary for focus and deep work
The Scholars Retreat at Herstmonceux Castle provides academics, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate students with a dedicated setting for research, writing, and reflection. Designed to foster intellectual concentration and interdisciplinary exchange, the retreat offers residencies of one to six months, beginning in 2026.
For more information, or to book a retreat, please
A place for peaceful inspiration
The castle has a remarkable 500-year history and its 600 acres of grounds include formal gardens, wildflower and water meadows, as well as ancient woodland. It provides the perfect escape from the demands of daily academic life and an environment where you can find peace and inspiration.
The castle cloisters, located just outside the castle library, provide a peaceful place to read and reflect outdoors.
The castle library
The library is refurbished in Neo-classical style, and provides a quiet retreat overlooking the south-facing formal gardens. The library is close to the academic offices in the castle and provides a quiet space for study and reflection.
Many academics based at the college enjoy taking day trips to London to study at the British Library, where they can locate important texts and work in its uniquely atmospheric environment. The Bodleian Library at Oxford is also a popular day trip for scholars based at Bader College.
Designed for focus and comfort
Dedicated academic offices in the castle are available for scholars, each with a desk, a comfortable chair, and very often, a beautiful view.
Accommodation is provided at David Smith Hall, a space dedicated to academic retreats and visiting staff. Situated within the castle estate, the hall is just a few minutes' walk from the castle itself and offers comfortable ground-floor rooms with garden or countryside views.
Many academics and sabbatical visitors also appreciate the excellent transport links. London is easily accessible by train in just two hours, and the nearby Gatwick Airport offers daily low-cost flights to major European destinations.
The castle is beautiful, the grounds are enchanting, and the locale is perfect for research — not far from the major archives but secluded enough to permit deep contemplation. I've ached to get back.
Dr. Andrew Loman
Associate Professor, Memorial University
Frequently Asked Questions
The Castle Café is open for breakfast and lunch 7 days a week and form May 2026 evening meals will also be available on site.
The Castle Café caters to public guests who are able to book rooms in one wing of Bader Hall (separate from students) and offers breakfasts from 7:30 am. Spring opening hours are likely to be until 5 pm each day.
The menu is frequently updated but always has paninis, sandwiches, baked potatoes with salad, lovely cakes, scones and an excellent coffee machine for lattes etc.
The closest village is Herstmonceux (5 minute drive, 30 minute walk) and has a grocery store, pub and other shops
There is a Marks & Spencer food outlet 7 minutes drive away
All major grocery stores (Tesco, Asda, Waitrose etc.) have online ordering available and deliver to the castle. They are between 10 and 20 minutes drive.
Faculty who lived on site in the past without transportation (and also students) would just have groceries delivered once a week or as often as needed.
Several local restaurants deliver to the castle. There are two charming pubs within a 3 minute drive, 20 minute walk
Each apartment has a small kitchen with hotplate, microwave and fridge.
There are brand new communal kitchens in Bader Hall and David Smith Hall.
There is also a full kitchen in the Castle Staff Lounge which visiting scholars are welcome to use.
There are laundry facilities in both Bader Hall and David Smith Hall.
Printing and photocopying facilities are available in the castle where offices are located.
Trains to London are from stations in Polegate and Battle (both 20 minutes drive).
The journey to London from Polegate is 1' 24" and from Battle is 1' 18" . If you book in advance the price can be as little as £8 one way.
There are several taxi companies in the area and prices range from £25 - £35.
We plan to put our minibus back on the road and staff it to do the rounds of shops and train stations for a minimal charge but this might not happen before March 2026.