Ightham Mote

New For Summer Holidays 2024

Discover the shadowy story of the Selby family at Ightham Mote for summer 2024, and their connection to royal mysteries in Tudor times.

Take on code-breaking challenges and follow new spy-themed trails indoors and through the gardens with ‘A Summer of Selby Spies’! Plus, historical reenactments and crafts reveal more about Ightham’s Tudor legacy...

Things To Do

Walking through the gates of Ightham Mote is like stepping back in time. The stunning medieval manor house, surrounded by a serene moat, is a sight to behold. Kids will be fascinated by the storybook-like setting with timber-framed buildings and lush gardens. As you wander through the manor, the rich history of the house comes to life with each room offering a glimpse into the past. The house has been remarkably well-preserved and restored, allowing visitors to see original features like the Great Hall, the Chapel, and the Tudor courtyard.

Kids will also love the moat surrounding the house! It’ll send their imaginations wild as they think of keeping dragons, knights and all sorts of magical intruders away from their prized castle. When you enter, you’ll discover fascinating true stories about this important location. We’re sure you’ll learn something fascinating, as well as the kids!

Owners of the house ranged from knights, Tudors, Victorians, and American businessmen! Ightham Mote has plenty of stories to tell, and the experts on hand will be more than willing to tell you about the house’s curious past.

The Garden

After exploring the house, the adventure continues outdoors. Ightham Mote's grounds are wide open, offering plenty of space for kids to run around and explore, from flower borders and secret glades to a formal lawn.

The walled gardens are beautifully maintained, with seasonal flowers adding bursts of colour throughout the year. Families can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the gardens, take a picnic by the lake, or follow one of the many walking trails that wind through the estate.

Whether you visit during the Snowdrop season in the winter or when the daffodils bloom in the spring. You'll even find a beautiful orchard with apple trees growing - did you know there's over 15 types there? From dessert and sweet apples to those that can be made into cider.

Fun Activities for Kids

Get messy in the natural play area, peer into the ponds and explore acres of open space and woodland. With nearly 700 years of history to discover, there’s something for the whole family at Ightham Mote near Sevenoaks.

Meander through the beautiful gardens to the cool, shady natural play area - and get stuck in! Practice your balancing skills, create mud pies or make sweet music. Just remember to bring a change of clothes.

Grab a children's estate map with three-way marked walks from one to five miles. Spot different birds and wildlife whilst giving little legs a much-needed stretch.

It’s time for your family to uncover the secrets of Ightham Mote...

Food & Drink

After you've finished your outdoor adventure head over to Ightham Mote's café and enjoy tasty homemade treats, light lunches and refreshing drinks. There's also kids' lunchboxes with a choice of sandwiches and sides! Make sure to grab a cup of speciality tea and coffee with your delicious homemade cake!

Or pack a picnic and throw down a comfy blanket in the picnic area in the garden.

Accessibility

- There are accessible routes in the garden and at the South Lake. Ground floor of the house is accessible.

- Accessible toilet

- Braille (guide or menu)

- Blue badge parking and Buggy Service available

- Large print (guide or menu)

- Level access to food outlet & shop

- Manual wheelchairs are available to borrow

- Registered assistance dogs welcome in all areas of the site. All dogs welcome on the café veranda all year round.

Why We Suggest Ightham Mote For Families

Ightham Mote is more than just a historic house; it's a gateway to the past and a haven for family fun! With its enchanting architecture, beautiful gardens, and a host of activities designed for kids, it offers a perfect day out for families looking to explore, learn, and enjoy the great outdoors.

Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique and enjoyable day out with the kids, Ightham Mote has something to offer.