Queen’s University – with Bader College and Herstmonceux Castle Estate – is pleased to share that the restoration of Herstmonceux Castle is progressing well and the essential components of the repairs are on track to be completed as planned by fall 2025.
“Our priority is, as ever, the people who work, study, and visit the castle and surrounding property,” says Matthew Evans, Provost and Vice-Principal (Academic), Queen’s University. “Along with teams of engineers, architects, and tradespeople, we are working to preserve the castle building and to allow for the return of educational activities, and larger events, including conferences and weddings.”
Architectural firm Gould Baxter confirmed this week that, as planned, the essential repairs are still on course to be completed by fall of 2025. This includes the completion of the newly rebuilt gatehouse parapet, which can now be seen following the removal of the scaffold sheeting. “This is a significant milestone – the most important and complete element of the works is now finished and on show, with the scaffold sheeting removed,” says Mike Doherty, Partner at Gould Baxter.
As part of this key work, stone corbels supporting the parapet were replaced, with original brickwork meticulously dismantled, set aside, and reinstated to retain the historic character of the castle. In addition, the southwest tower repairs are now finished and the scaffolding removed, exposing more of the completed works. This work included the replacement of historic internal floors, and addressing cracks both inside and out.
Recent investments in the castle
Over the past several years, the university has taken significant steps to ensure the long-term preservation of the historic building and made substantial investments into the castle’s infrastructure and facilities. These works include: roof and window repairs; installation of energy-efficient heat pumps; flood management system upgrades; and replacement of the water treatment system and heating oil tank. Additionally, student and guest facilities have been enhanced, with new science laboratories, renovated classrooms and library, and modernized washrooms.
It was in November 2023 when the university suspended academic programming at the castle, and closed access to areas of the building, after structural concerns were raised regarding the central gatehouse by a team working on the castle roof at the time.
Queen’s and Bader College quickly brought in consulting engineers Hockley & Dawson, who specialize in the sensitive repair and conservation of historic buildings. Following their assessment, Queen’s contracted Gould Baxter to do an extensive survey of the castle and prepare a Quinquennial Report, outlining the most essential repairs needed and a plan for repairs over the next five years.
Moving forward, future planning
“With the most complex elements now complete, the project remains on schedule for full handover to us by autumn 2025,” says Dean Pascall, Director of the Estate. “Once finished, the castle will be fully operational, with all rooms, event spaces, and facilities fully accessible as usual.”
Maintenance planning for the castle continues, guided by the principles of the Quinquennial Report. This proactive approach ensures the castle’s ongoing care, and allows the university and estate to welcome guests, conferences, students, and academic groups.
More information will be forthcoming in the coming months regarding educational activities at the castle and further plans for environmental stewardship of the broader estate.