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 pricesThe 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
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.
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Brand-new for 2026: swing into a jungle adventure at Bateman’s inspired by the much‑loved Monkey Puzzle story by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler.
Display of Axel Scheffler's prints from Monkey Puzzle
Come and rediscover the beloved characters as they were first imaged this half term.
Half term Face Painting at Bateman's
Add a splash of colour to your visit this half term with face painting sessions at Bateman’s.