Ightham Mote

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Outstanding 14th-century moated manor house

More about this place

A lady during the mid-19th century walking in the courtyard

Nature and art: reflections of two of Ightham Mote's previous residents 

Prideaux John Selby and Charles Joseph La Trobe were both influential Victorians who enjoyed spending time at Ightham Mote. Discover more about their lives, their work, Ightham Mote, and not to mention a bit of gossip in our exhibition for 2016.

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Ightham Mote

Things to see and do

The courtyard, with Victorian dog kennel

Visit the house 

What the Butler saw... Step inside the moated manor house to discover how the house evolved to meet the changing needs of its owners over almost 700 years.

The cherub fountain dazzles in sunlight in the enclosed garden

Relax in the garden at Ightham Mote 

One of the original 'open' gardens in the National Garden Scheme, the gardens at Ightham Mote have been welcoming visitors to their different 'rooms', rather than an overall grand scheme.

Looking over a hedge, and up hill from footpath with field on right and trees to the left

Explore the estate 

With 546 acres to explore, get your walking boots on and discover the rich array of flora and fauna on our surrounding estate.

Children climbing on a tree in the natural play area

Family fun 

With quizzes, trails, a natural play area and organised events during the Kent school holidays, there is plenty to keep the family occupied on a visit to Ightham Mote.

50 things to do before youre 11 3/4

50 things to do before you're 11 ¾ at Ightham Mote 

Fancy exploring the outdoors, learning new skills and trying new things? Grab your gear and start ticking off some of our 50 things to do before you're 11 ¾.

A family playing in the leaves

School holidays 

Why don't you... just switch off the TV set and do something less boring instead.

Healthy exercise

Frank, a labrador guide dog in the garden at Ightham Mote

Dog walking at Ightham Mote 

Whether you furry friend wants a gentle walk with a bit of shade, or a more strenuous climb with fantastic views, we have some great waymarked routes on our 500 acre estate. Just make sure you read our pointers before you set off.

Two ladies walking in the woods

Put your best foot forward at Ightham Mote 

Grab your walking boots, and your four-legged friend if you have one, and enjoy the Kent countryside in this area of outstanding natural beauty.

Three ladies laughing during an event on the lawn

Events at Ightham Mote 

There's always something happening at Ightham Mote. Find out more about our events programme including our guided walks, annual Murder at the Mote, and school holiday fun.

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Ightham Mote

Eating and shopping

Food, drinks and a shopping spree

A bowl of soup, with a chunk of bread

Eating at Ightham Mote 

Whether you want a meal or a snack, a comforting soup or the indulgence of freshly baked scones, a warming drink or an ice-cream, our licensed café is an essential part of your visit. Free WIFI available.

Emma Ball's range of products featuring watercolour image of Ightham Mote

Welcome to the Coach House shop 

Located opposite the house, the Coach House shop has an unique selection of gift ideas and souvenirs – including jewellery, bags, preserves, our popular Ightham Mote range and seasonal items. Pop in and find that perfect gift for a friend or relative

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Ightham Mote

Groups

A group having a laugh on a visit to Igthham Mote

Group visits to Ightham Mote 

Planning a day for 15 or more people? Ightham Mote is a fascinating place with lots to see and do. Offering excellent discounts and the option to book a guided tour before the house opens. With plenty of parking for coaches, a café with home-cooked food and a shop packed full of lovely gifts, there's no better place to take your group.

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Ightham Mote

Learning

School group on estate at Ightham Mote

Be inspired, explore, discover and learn 

Learning doesn't have to be confined to the classroom, so why not inspire your pupils with a visit to Ightham Mote house, garden and estate.

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Ightham Mote

History

Looking from the courtyard, across the North Bridge
Ightham Mote   Kent

Who would live in a place like this?

Who used to live here? Uncover the stories of some of the families who have lived here over the past 700 years

Find out more about some of Ightham Mote's owners
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Ightham Mote

Our work

The north east corner of Ightham Mote covered in scaffolding

The £10 million house 

Aiming to retain the original fabric of the house wherever possible, and to use traditional methods and materials, the conservation work at Ightham Mote took 15 years to complete.

A member of the conservation team dusting a blue and white pot

Caring for our collection 

With more than 2000 items to care for, our team of Conservation Assistants and dedicated volunteers work hard for our Accredited Museum status. Find out more about what they do.

Flood water in the house courtyard

Conservation in Action 

Follow the progress of the conservation team as they bring the flood affected rooms back to life.

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Ightham Mote

Get involved

Two costumed characters from Ightham Mote's Shades at Christmas kissing under the mistletoe

Our volunteers are just like you 

Can you spare just three hours a week? If so, you could spend it at this majestic, moated manor house and bring a little magic into your life by joining our family of fantastic volunteers.

A group of people enjoying a day out

Join one of our local supporter groups 

Want to help Ightham Mote but don't feel you have enough spare time to give? You can always join a local supporter group to help raise funds. They're a great way to meet people and make friends, plus they often have days out.

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