Knole Park, Medieval deer park and conservation area in Sevenoaks, England
Knole Park is a medieval deer park and conservation area in Sevenoaks, England, covering more than 1,000 acres of open countryside. Ancient oaks and beeches line gently rolling meadows, while valleys and small groves give the grounds varied relief.
The estate served as the palace of the Archbishop of Canterbury from the 15th century before passing into royal hands under Henry VIII. Thomas Sackville acquired the grounds in 1603 and his descendants still occupy parts of the house today.
The name Knole comes from the Old English word for hilltop and refers to the raised position of the estate above the valley. Visitors today notice mainly the free-roaming fallow deer that have lived here for centuries and grown accustomed to human presence.
Visitors must book entry tickets in advance, as access is limited during opening hours. Car parks are available only to ticket holders, and much of the grounds suit quiet walks away from paved paths.
The Conservation Studio opens to the public four days a week and shows specialists restoring period furniture and textiles. Visitors can watch through glass screens as work unfolds that would otherwise happen behind closed doors.
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