Ightham Mote

Ightham Mote is a manor house with several buildings arranged around a central courtyard that is completely encircled by a water-filled moat from the 14th century. The different sections of the house show construction and decoration from multiple periods.

The property was founded by Sir Thomas Cawne, a soldier who served with Edward the Black Prince in the 1360s. Over the following centuries, different families added new sections and updated the interiors.

The estate attracted artists and writers during the 19th century who gathered here to work and share ideas. These creative visitors left their mark on the rooms and gardens they inhabited.

The National Trust manages the property and opens it regularly during the main visiting season. Visitors can explore the interior rooms, the surrounding gardens, and the grounds at their own pace.

The house contains two separate chapels, with the New Chapel from 1520 standing out for its decorative barrel roof. This roof is adorned with carved Tudor rose motifs.

Location: Ightham

Architectural style: vernacular architecture

Accessibility: Wheelchair limited access

Operator: National Trust

Address: Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks TN15 0NT

Website: https://nationaltrust.org.uk/ightham-mote

GPS coordinates: 51.25830,0.26855

Latest update: December 13, 2025 21:15