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Saving Ightham: celebrating 40 years of Ightham Mote's legacy

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Charles Henry Robinson gifting Ightham Mote to the National Trust.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

These displays focus on the saving of Ightham Mote over a 50-year rescue mission. We explore Mr Robinson's passion for Ightham Mote, from his first glimpse in a London print shop in 1924, to his dedicated restoration of the house after purchasing it in 1953.

Thanks to his generosity, Ightham Mote was preserved for future generations, officially becoming part of the National Trust on 2 January 1985.

Discover the story of one man's love for this English treasure and the lasting impact of his gift.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Suitability

Children welcome

Meeting point

This exhibition can be found in the main house.

Accessibility

The garden is steep in places with steps and gravel, cobbles and grass pathways - please speak to staff on arrival for the best route for your needs. Disabled parking is available near visitor reception but there is some gravel in areas of the car park. Pushchairs are permitted in all areas of the garden, but please take care. Take care, there are many open water areas around the garden.

Upcoming events

Sargent’s Palette in Bloom 

Discover how Ightham Mote inspired internationally renowned artist John Singer Sargent.

Event summary

on
19 Sep to 2 Nov 2025
at
11:00 to 16:00
+ 44 other dates or times

Ana Maria Pacheco: A Modern Bestiary 

Ana Maria Pacheco, returns to Ightham Mote with A Modern Bestiary — an exhibition of screenprints that explore the intersections of myth and morality in modern life.

Event summary

on
19 Sep to 2 Nov 2025
at
11:00 to 17:00
+ 44 other dates or times

Music@Malling:The Enchanted Garden 

Ightham Mote marks 40 years with the National Trust through an immersive installation combining art by Ana Maria Pacheco and music by Zöe Martlew.

Event summary

on
21 Sep 2025
at
16:00 to 18:00

Music@Malling:The Mendelssohns in England 

Join the award-winning Fidelio Trio in the Drawing Room at Ightham Mote for a captivating programme celebrating the brilliance of Felix & Fanny Mendelssohn.

Event summary

on
23 Sep 2025
at
19:00 to 21:30