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Rudyard Kipling – Something of myself performance

Listen to Rudyard Kipling, seemingly in person, talking about his life, through readings of his poetry.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Performed by Jonathan Jones, Rudyard Kipling – ‘Something of Myself’ is a one-man play covering the main events of Kipling’s life, told through readings of Kipling’s poetry. It is delivered in the first-person and covers his childhood, his marriage to an American and the loss of his son John in the Great War. Poems include, ‘If’, ‘The Glory of the Garden’ and ‘Tommy’. The performance in May marks Jonathan's 200th performance, Jonathan has also plans to perform at the Billingshurst Literary Festival this year.

Monday 25 May & Sunday 30 August

Performances at 11am, 1pm & 3pm (approx. 45 mins)

Free, normal admission applies

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

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

Check admission prices

The basics

Suitability

Suitable for adults.

Meeting point

Meet at the Quarterdeck in the formal garden.

What to bring and wear

This event takes place outside. Please dress for the weather.

Accessibility

This event takes place in the formal garden, access includes paths with steps, slopes and varying surfaces. Please see the Facilities and access pages at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/batemans for further information. Chairs are provided.

Other

This outdoor activity is weather dependent and occasionally may need to be changed or cancelled at short notice. Ask at visitor reception for information when you arrive. This event is volunteer led and dates and times may occasionally change – please check at visitor reception when you arrive.

Upcoming events

Local Craft Makers Pop-up Shop 

This spring be inspired by the work of local craft makers in the home of Rudyard Kipling.

Event summary

on
2 May to 17 May 2026
at 11:00 to 16:00+ 15 other dates or times

Rudyard Kipling introductory talks 

Join us for a short introductory talk that offers an overview of Rudyard Kipling’s life, family, and work before you step inside the house.

Event summary

on
2 May to 30 Oct 2026
at 11:15 to 11:30+ 545 other dates or times

National Mills Weekend at Bateman's Park Mill 

Join in the National Mills Weekend celebrations at working water mill, Bateman’s Park Mill. Our Millers will be milling flour throughout the day

Event summary

on
9 May to 10 May 2026
at 11:00 to 16:00+ 1 other date or time

Conservation Wednesdays 

Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes to look after the collection at Bateman’s?

Event summary

on
20 May to 14 Oct 2026
at 11:30 to 15:30+ 5 other dates or times