All you need to know about the Medieval manor, Ightham Mote in Kent.
Where is Ightham Mote?
Ightham Mote is close to the village of Ightham, near Sevenoaks in Kent.
The postcode for SatNav is: TN15 0NT
When was Ightham Mote built?
The Grade I listed building originally dates to around 1320, and is an example of how such houses would have looked in the Middle Ages.
Ightham is not only one of England’s oldest surviving manor houses, it’s also one its most complete, having altered little over nearly 700 years.
Built of Kentish ragstone and Wealden oak, with a stylish moat dug for protection – Ightham Mote was once the very height of decorous country living. A sort of 14th-century Downton Abbey, if you will.
Unusually, the identity of the individual who had the house built has been lost to posterity.
All we know is that, within 20 years of its construction in the mid-1300s, it came into the hands of Thomas Cawne, the son of a tailor and tenement landlord.
Thomas was an army captain and, since this was at the time of the Hundred Years’ War (which went on for 116 years), he probably chose Ightham because its location allowed him easy access his friends in London. Being on the coast, it was also convenient for sailing to France whenever he needed to do some soldiering.
Subsequent owners include an aunt to an English queen, a ‘gentleman composer’, a Commisioner of Sewers, and Sir Thomas Colyer-Fergusson, who employed a dozen servants and eight gardeners and always ate off his finest porcelain.
Ightham Mote has 202 hectares of woodland, as well as gardens, lakes, pleasure grounds, an orchard and a play area.
What has been filmed at Ightham Mote?
This Medieval manor has featured in the following: Making Noise Quietly (2019), the tenth series of BBC's Horrible Histories and Fred Dibnah's Magnificent Monuments, as well as the BBC's Antiques Road Show and Bargain Hunt.
How to pronounce Ightham Mote
Pronounce Ightham Mote as you would 'item.'
Useful Information
- House opening hours: 11–4.30 (winter 11–3).
- Café; book shop; shop; gardens and parkland; accessible toilets; wheelchair hire; dogs allowed in the gardens Nov–Feb.
Looking for more inspirational days out?
If you're in the area, check out our guide to the best walks in Kent, explore Charles Dickens' Kent or visit the nearby National Trust property, Knole House, one of England’s grandest stately homes.
We've also put together comprehensive guides and features about the National Trust, including a round up of the best top 10 National Trust properties, the National Trust best outdoor cinema locations and the best National Trust walks.
Do you have National Trust membership?
Become a member to enjoy savings on visits and contribute to preserving these iconic properties for future generations.
Credit: National Trust Images/Chris Lacey
