Herstmonceux Castle An open garden in East Sussex

It has a series of large gardens round a brick built 15th century moated castle it was the home of the British observatory till 1990. The rose garden is large and walled. I love the avenue of Sweet chestnut circa 1700. Lots of plants to see and enjoy in the very deep flower beds. There is a fascinating collections of sundials and the large flat stone one is fascinating. We had hoped to have a nice lunch there but found this very limited and the outside eating area was right beside the toilets. Great place to take picnic though.