Ightham Mote
Ightham Mote is one of the oldest and loveliest of the medieval manor houses to survive in England. It has nestled in a sunken valley in a hidden corner of the Kentish Weald for over 650 years and has withstood fire, tempest, war and riot. Ightham Mote is a central square of cobbles within a square of buildings within a square of water – the moat that surrounds the house. The house was bequeathed to the Trust by its then American owner, Charles Henry Robinson in 1985 and a comprehensive programme of repair begun in 1989, was completed in 2004 and is the subject of a Conservation in Action’ exhibition in the visitor reception. Apart from an extensive and tranquil garden, the interior of the house is full of interest and features include the Great Hall, Tudor chapel with painted ceiling, drawing room with Jacobean fireplace and a billiard room and the private apartment of Charles Henry Robinson.

National Trust places nearby: Chartwell, Knole, Old Soar Manor. Shop and pub: pub within 1 mile in Ivy Hatch, Seal, Tonbridge, shops in Plaxtol, Borough Green. Tea-room/café/restaurant: restaurant at Ightham Mote. Railway station: Borough Green, Wrotham. Other attractions: Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent Life, Stoneacre. Activities: walking, horse riding, cycling.

Ordnance Survey Landranger Map 188