Goodnestone Park

Goodnestone Park is a Palladian country house with extensive gardens located in rural Kent. The house and grounds feature the architectural style of that tradition, with organized garden spaces, mature trees, and landscaped areas typical of English estates from that period.

The Palladian house was built in 1704 by Brook Bridges, 1st Baronet, following the family's move to Kent. Over the centuries the estate underwent various changes and was eventually converted into a museum to preserve its heritage for public enjoyment.

The house holds literary significance as Jane Austen spent time here and drew creative inspiration for her novels during her visits. This connection to one of England's most celebrated authors gives the place a special meaning for visitors interested in literary history.

Visitors should check opening times in advance since conditions can vary seasonally and not all areas are accessible at all times. A weekend visit requires different planning than a weekday one, so it makes sense to verify the exact details before traveling.

The gardens contain a box parterre planted to mark the millennium, creating a distinctive horticultural feature with historical timing significance. A separate area called the Golden Arboretum was created to commemorate a family milestone and adds another layer of meaning to the grounds.