Chevening

Chevening is a red brick country house at the foot of the North Downs in Kent, rising three floors with classical symmetry. The building stands within extensive parkland spreading over 1200 hectares (3000 acres), combining woodland, lakes and formal garden layouts.

A settlement has been recorded here since the late 12th century, while the current main building rose in the early 17th century. After World War Two, an act of parliament transferred the property into state management, and it has served since as a residence for senior government members.

The name comes from the Old English word for pine sapling, reflecting the wooded character that has shaped the surroundings for centuries. Visitors today see parkland shaped over generations according to English garden ideals, still showing that traditional design language.

The estate is not permanently open to the public, as it serves as an official residence, but guided tours are sometimes offered. Those passing by can at least glimpse the facade and surrounding fields from the road.

Inside, paintings and furniture from several centuries remain from former residents and now form part of the state collection. The double hexagonal walled kitchen garden is a rare layout, showing an unusual geometric solution for growing vegetables and fruit.