Ightham Mote in Sevenoaks, Kent

The mediaeval moated manor house at Ightham Mote is one of the finest small Medieval houses in England. Architectural writer John Newman credits Ightham Mote as being “one of the best preserved and complete small manor houses in Buckinghamshire”.

At 546 acres, there’s plenty to explore – farmland and woodland, dog-friendly grounds, lakes, springs, glades and natural children’s play areas all await discovery here. Additionally, an onsite cafe and shop offer plenty of opportunities for an afternoon of fun or leisurely meals with family and friends.

Ightham Mote is a Grade I Listed Building, Scheduled Ancient Monument, and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Additionally, its house serves as National Trust property open to the public free of charge. See this helpful information.

Explore Ightham Mote from various angles and enjoy its many different rooms. There’s the Great Hall, extensively renovated in 16th-century Spain with beautiful stained glass windows; Tudor Chapel; Crypt; Drawing Room/Victorian Billiards Room with 18th-century wallpaper examples and finally Victorian Billiards Room for some Victorian charm!

Music has always played an integral part of Ightham Mote, and you can experience its influence through displays throughout the house and estate. Additionally, there are music events held here that might pique your interest!

Ightham Mote was once owned by several Selby families until 1890 when it was bought outright by a consortium of local businessmen led by William Durling, John Goodwin and John Baldock who thought that Ightham Mote should be preserved and spent considerable funds repairing its structures in order to ensure its survival.

After being acquired by the National Trust, Ightham Mote became open for public use once more, offering visitors plenty of activities that are suitable for every member of their family. From exploring its extensive grounds to taking advantage of its historical architecture and features – there is something here for all age groups.

Gardens offer children an ideal playground, featuring wooden dens, balance beams, chimes, willow tunnels, stepping-stones and fairy toadstools as attractions in their environment. You can even buy a specially created children’s garden explorer map to provide your children with an exciting day trip out in nature!

Ightham Mote offers several themed days that you can attend for free at any time, such as its Hearing Dog 25th Anniversary celebration and Father’s Day event that drew in hundreds of visitors. Be sure to keep an eye out on its calendar to be aware of these upcoming dates.

Ightham Mote estate boasts many walks, such as an Iron Age Fort, old quarry and Roman fish ponds; ideal for short strolls. Additionally, explore its surrounding countryside on longer treks. The ancient bluebell woodland, wildflowers, autumn colours and crisp winter days are just some of the stunning displays you’ll find in Kent’s greenery.

The house has been occupied by different families over the centuries, and each one left its mark. The needs of food production, new pastimes, the collector’s zeal and the changing fortunes of its owners have all been played out in these dramatic gardens.

Ightham Mote is an idyllic way to spend an afternoon, perfect for anyone with a passion for historic houses. Offering history, beauty and adventure all in one package – be sure to plan ahead so that you don’t miss any of Ightham Mote’s splendour. Check out Knole in Sevenoaks for other activities to do in the local area.