Diwali at Bateman's
Join us in celebrating the festival of light here in the home of Rudyard Kipling.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
Everyone is welcome to come together at Bateman’s in East Sussex to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists. Diwali follows the lunar calendar and in 2026, falls on Sunday the 8th November.
Join us to discover beautiful Indian objects, artworks, and hand-crafted decorations in the house. Take part in family-friendly crafts, browse for Indian gifts or Kipling books in the shop.
Visit the Mulberry Tea-room and enjoy a warming chickpea curry whilst you celebrate the Festival of Lights at Bateman's.
Bateman’s was the family home of Rudyard Kipling, author of The Jungle Book, Kim, and the Just So Stories. Kipling was born and lived in India; his first language was Hindustani, and his experiences there inspired much of his writing. Learn more about Kipling's links to India and embrace this special Anglo-Indian fusion in the peaceful setting of the Sussex countryside.
Thursday 8 October to Sunday 8 November.
11am to 3.30pm, last entry into the house at 3pm.
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
- Accessibility
This event takes place in the house and garden, access includes varying surfaces. Please see the Facilities and access pages at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/batemans for further information.
- Meeting point
This celebration takes place in the house and gardens, please ask at visitor reception for details.
- Suitability for children
Suitable for all ages.
- What to bring and wear
Please wear clothing suitable for the weather as this is outdoors.
Upcoming events
Display of Su Blackwell's 'Bateman's Reimagined'
Inspired by Bateman’s, Rudyard Kipling’s family home and his most beloved story The Jungle Book, paper artist Su Blackwell crafted Bateman’s Reimagined from copies of Kipling’s handwritten manuscript of The Jungle Book.
Display of the Sir Philip Burne-Jones portrait of Rudyard Kipling
To celebrate National Poetry Day this year on 1st October, the Sir Philip Burne-Jones portrait of Rudyard Kipling will be going on display at Bateman’s for the first time.
Celebrating Diwali: Kipling’s Indian Connections
Join our House and Collections Manager for an exclusive talk exploring Diwali and Kipling’s lasting links to India.
Meet the gardeners: The Mulberry Garden Project
Join our gardeners at Bateman's for an exclusive talk about the Mulberry Garden Project.