Hidden away in a secluded Kent valley, is this perfectly preserved medieval moated manor house. Emerging from the natural landscape almost 700 years ago, Ightham Mote is built from Kentish ragstone and great Wealden oaks. While its architecture and decoration trace the development of the English country house, its owners provide the stories of a once-cherished family home, evoking a deep sense of history. In the tranquil gardens there are streams and lakes fed by natural springs, an orchard, flower borders and a cutting garden. The wider estate offers walks with secret glades and countryside views.
Sitting proudly within Kent’s last medieval deer park, Knole offers something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the vast estate and follow in the footsteps of tourists who have visited Knole’s showrooms for 400 years. Originally built as an archbishop’s palace, Knole passed through royalty to the Sackville family, who still live here today. Take in the scale and magnificence of this 600 year old estate by exploring the grand courtyards and tranquil Orangery or wander the winding paths in the parkland, still populated by wild deer.
Local walks:
There are a number of beautiful walks around Borough Green that take you around the villages of Ightham, St. Mary’s Platt, Plaxtol, Trottiscliffe and beyond.
Visit Komoot for maps and further information about all the local walks, ranging from 1 to 6 hours.
London:
With regular trains to London Charing Cross and Victoria, Borough Green train station is a 5 minutes walk away and will take you into central London within an hour.
The area around Charing Cross is home to several important tourist attractions, including Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery, as well as being a major shopping and business district. It is also close to London’s renowned West End theatre district.
Victoria station is just ten minutes’ walk from the city’s most iconic and significant landmarks from the House of Parliament to Buckingham Palace. The area boasts a plethora of high-end bars and restaurants and boutique shops.