This could be a genuine treehouse, with a tree growing through the (proposed) Airbnb, but at the moment, it is simply a support structure, bereft of floors or conveniences. This is while the tree regenerates, after a serious bark infection some years ago forced drastic surgery. Though, the proposed use could be enjoyed on a temporary basis for up to 28 days a year, under permitted development rules. Except that any fittings that may not be a permitted development, after the expiry of 28 days, would have to be removed, until the following year. That is not impossible, but rather inconvenient, and an additional financial burden on the Museum, as the Trust strives for tentative listing, as a World Heritage Site.

The village of Herstmonceux does not have a 'Funfair.' Though, many locals have been calling the Museum exactly that for quite some time. Traditional Amusement Arcades with penny slot machines have long since lost their attraction, where every boy and girl these days, have their own gaming console, typically, competing online.

But high adrenaline rush home entertainment does not get children out and into the fresh air to exercise their muscles and imaginations, while getting back in touch with nature, and most important of all, releasing all of that stress making adrenaline.

The closest attractions are in:

- Alfriston; Drusillas

- Eastbourne; Fort Fun

- Hailsham; Knockhatch

A few years ago, a little girl climbed the gates to the rear of Herstmonceux Museum, and asked where the 'Funfair' was. The Museum's security said:

"Sorry, there is no 'Funfair,' here." 

But it was clear from the look on the little girl's face, that her parents had led her to believe there was. And she was mightily disappointed.

A month or two later, a small boy asked his mother to lift him high above those same gates, so that he could see into the 'Funfair.' As she did so he caught sight of the giant ant, called Anthony.

"Mum," he said excitedly. "I want one of those."

"No way." Said his mother. "It's way too large. It won't fit in the house."

His mother and security laughed. But, should we disappoint those children?

Later still, another girl asked if she could stay, or play, in what she thought was a tree house.

The Museum has received quite a few requests like that. Apparently, there is nowhere in Herstmonceux, where kids can have that kind of fun.

Should we disappoint those children, and their parents?

In the summer, a number of walkers pass by, invariably stopping to ask about air-bnb in the tree house. Unfortunately, it is not a proper tree house. More a stay for the sycamore growing in and through the supporting structure. But it could be a tree house.

Should we disappoint all of those hikers?

As a working museum, that is open to the public, the old generating buildings house several interesting exhibits, many of which have an electrical connection. So, perpetuating the spirit of inventiveness, pioneered by Major Charles de Roemer, John Hopkinson, Joseph Swan and Thomas Edison, in the run up to C.1900.

The only surviving early example of load levelling (modern grid stabilisation) using battery storage C.1900. Anywhere in the world.

The owners/operators, Lime Park Heritage Trust, are a charity, aiming to restore the site to its former glory, complete with a working National gas engine.

Herstmonceux Museum

Lime Park

Herstmonceux

East Sussex

BN271RF

United Kingdom

Please note: that at this time, Lime Park Heritage Trust, own only the early Generating Station footprint, not any surrounding land(s). Other areas adjacent to the electricity station are walked and explored at the walker's own risk. We understand that some safety precautions have been taken, such as under, and to comply with Health & Safety Regulations, to protect passers by and underneath some of the taller trees, from falling branches. Information of this will be provided to visitors before being allowed to roam freely. Please read this government guidance carefully. Some areas may be blocked off to prevent public access, where no responsible adult is present. All accidents/incidents, should be recorded, as part of a comprehensive safety record in a day book. Visitors are encouraged to enter their names and locations in a Visitors book, that will not be available generally to the public.

According to government guidance, when people enjoy the countryside or other open spaces they owe a duty to themselves and their dependents to take proper care. Official advice to the public is that responsible risk-taking should be regarded as normal, and we should not discourage members of the public from undertaking certain activities solely on the grounds that there is an element of risk. Excessive paternalism and concern with safety may lead to infringements of personal rights. Those who are competent to judge the risk to themselves should be free to make their own decisions so long as they do not threaten the safety of others. The nature of these pursuits is such that, where there is an accident, a fault on the part of an employer (for example) cannot be presumed.

There will be more information provided on this page for the 2024 season, and thereafter. Thank you for your patronage and patience.