Springtime walks at Bateman's

Spring out on the estates 

With the changing of the clocks and, hopefully, an upward trend in temperatures this time of year sees the estate emerge from the somewhat bare days of winter to promise colour and new life.

Out and about across the estate, Kevan Gibbons, the Bateman's Ranger, notices the signs of spring on a daily basis at this time of year:

"What I love most about spring is the feeling of nature coming to life after being dormant over winter. The birds are starting to sing; primroses, celandines and blackthorn are starting to bloom and trees come into bud.

On the estate the bluebells are already in leaf, waiting to carpet our woodland shaws alongside the early purple orchids in May. In the next couple of months the meadows will be changing colour with masses of yellow dandelins followed by pink Lady's Smock (Cuckoo Flower) and white Cow Parsley. Oh, and of course the days get longer and warmer!"

Springtime walks through the Sussex countryside 

The Sussex countryside that surrounds Bateman's provided inspiration for some of Kipling's most magical stories. There are three estate walks that are suitable for all the family and your four-legged friend so head off for a re-energising walk to blow the winter blues away.

These walks will take you out and about on the estate. The countryside around has changed little since the Kiplings lived at Bateman's and a view back down to the house is beautiful to behold. You can understand why Kipling described this as a 'good and peaceable place'.

One estate, three walks

Starting from the formal garden, our estate walks head out through the River Dudwell valley and up onto the Sussex Weald. 

One - A bracing walk could see you follow in the footsteps of Puck, Kipling's most famous character from 'Puck of Pook's Hill'.

Two - For those of you who prefer to look at times past, try our Ironmaster's walk. A wander in the fields and woodland around Bateman's will reveal the remains of the area's previous Iron industry dating back to the times of the Norman Conquest.

Three - the third walk takes you from the house and garden up into the village of Burwash. Discover the war memorial with John Kipling's name engraved among the others from Burwash who lost their lives at the Battle of Loos. See one of the Kipling family's orders proudly displayed in the local butchers.

Bateman's Estate Walks (PDF / 0.3MB) download

A well-earned break

As you finish your walk and are making your way back to the car, stop by the Mulberry tea-room to sample our selection of refreshing drinks and hearty food. 

Four legged friends

Don't forget your four-legged friend, who is welcome to accompany you as long as you keep him or her on a short lead. Our visitor reception has a ready supply if you forget and leave yours at home.