Ivy Removal and Brickwork Repair

Herstmonceux Castle was constructed using brick, despite the fact that most castles at the time were built from sturdier materials like wood, timber, or stone for defensive purposes. This indicates that the design of the castle was meant to be more aesthetically impressive to visitors, rather than protect residents from outside attacks.

The pink bricks that make up the structure are longer and thinner than modern bricks and were probably manufactured using a kiln on site by local workers using local clay from the moat. While the original design was visually impressive, over time, the brickwork was not always maintained.

Restoring the castle meant removing the ivy, and re-establishing the architectural integrity of the walls so that modern interior renovations could continue on the south facade, the chapel, and the castle interior. Ivy removal and brickwork repairs were only the beginning steps to restore Herstmonceux to its former glory.