Exhibition: Ightham at War

This exhibition, curated to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe, highlights the personal stories of Sir James Colyer-Fergusson, who earnt a distinguished war record before returning to, and eventually inheriting, Ightham Mote, and Helmut Ortner, the survivor of the crash of a Messerschmitt airplane on the Ightham Mote estate on 15 August 1940.

Surviving fragments of Leutnant Ortner’s Messerschmitt B110, generously loaned by the Imperial War Museum, will be on display from 11 August, marking the anniversary of the crash and the first time parts of the aircraft have returned to Ightham since 1940.

Delve into life in the Wartime Kitchen at Ightham Mote and discover the remarkable story of Ella Thorpe, a young cook whose legendary pastry and lively spirit made her a beloved part of the household from 1929 through the war years. This special kitchen display features photographs, recipe books, and handwritten wartime recipes, along with vivid memories from Ella’s son, Terry.

Through personal photographs, letters, and wartime memories the exhibition brings to life the stories of those who lived, fought and found refuge at Ightham Mote during World War II.