Ightham Mote: A Timeless Medieval Moated Manor in Kent
Discover the enchanting 14th-century moated manor house and serene gardens of Ightham Mote, a hidden medieval gem in Kent’s countryside.
Ightham Mote is a remarkably preserved 14th-century moated manor house nestled in a secluded Kent valley near Sevenoaks. Surrounded by 14 acres of tranquil gardens, lakes, orchards, and woodland walks, this National Trust property offers a rich glimpse into medieval, Tudor, and Jacobean architecture and history. Visitors can explore the house’s historic interiors, enjoy scenic estate walks, and relax in the café and shop, all set within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
A brief summary to National Trust - Ightham Mote
- Mote Rd, Sevenoaks, Ivy Hatch, TN15 0NT, GB
- +441732810378
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-7 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to enjoy peaceful garden walks before the house opens at 11am.
- Use the volunteer shuttle buggy if you have mobility challenges to avoid the steep hill to the house.
- National Trust members receive free entry and parking, making membership a cost-effective option.
- Explore the waymarked walking trails around the estate for varied countryside views and wildlife spotting.
- Visit during the festive 'Timeless Nights' for extended opening hours and seasonal events.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Sevenoaks town center takes about 15-20 minutes via local roads. Parking is available on-site with a £2 fee for non-National Trust members; members park free. Note the car park is a short walk from the entrance, and the path to the house includes a steep hill.
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Train and Taxi
Take a train to Sevenoaks station from London or nearby towns (journey times vary from 30 to 60 minutes). From Sevenoaks station, a taxi ride to Ightham Mote takes approximately 15 minutes. Taxi fares typically range from £15 to £20.
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Bus and Walking
Local bus services connect Sevenoaks with nearby villages; however, bus stops are not directly adjacent to Ightham Mote. Walking from the nearest bus stop involves rural lanes and may take 30-45 minutes on uneven terrain, so this option suits experienced walkers.
National Trust - Ightham Mote location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about National Trust - Ightham Mote
Medieval Heritage Preserved in Kent’s Hidden Valley
Ightham Mote stands as one of England’s most complete small medieval manor houses, dating back to around 1320. Built from Kentish ragstone and great Wealden oaks, the moated manor emerges naturally from the landscape, embodying centuries of English architectural evolution from medieval to Tudor and Jacobean styles. Its moat and sunken valley setting create a romantic, timeless atmosphere. The house interior reveals richly decorated rooms including a Tudor painted ceiling and period furnishings that tell stories of the families who once lived here.Gardens and Estate: A Natural Sanctuary
The manor is surrounded by 14 acres of peaceful gardens featuring water elements such as streams and lakes fed by natural springs, an orchard, and vibrant flower borders. Beyond the gardens, the estate extends over 500 acres of woodland and farmland within the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Visitors can enjoy several waymarked walking routes, including accessible paths, that wind through ancient woodland, farmland, and countryside with frequent sightings of pheasants and other wildlife.Visitor Experience: History, Nature, and Community
Ightham Mote offers a variety of visitor amenities including a welcoming café serving hot and cold food, a shop selling local produce, gifts, and plants, and two second-hand bookshops. The house is accessible on the ground floor, with facilities such as accessible toilets and mobility scooters available by arrangement. Volunteer-led guided tours and talks enrich the experience, providing historical context and insights into the manor’s past. Seasonal events and special exhibitions, such as the annual 'Timeless Nights' Christmas openings, add festive charm.Conservation and Sustainability Efforts
Managed by the National Trust, Ightham Mote is subject to ongoing conservation projects that ensure its preservation for future generations. Recent upgrades include a new accessible Visitor Centre and improved paths. The estate promotes sustainable practices, encouraging visitors to respect the natural environment and wildlife habitats. The property supports local community engagement through events and volunteer programs.Accessibility and Practical Information
The property is wheelchair accessible on the ground floor and around the gardens, with a shuttle buggy service to assist with the steep slope to the house. Dogs are welcome in outdoor areas but not inside the house, except registered assistance dogs. Parking is free for National Trust members; non-members pay a modest fee. The house opens daily from 10am to 5pm, with extended hours on select Fridays. Visitors typically spend 2 to 4 hours exploring the house, gardens, and estate walks.Connecting with Kent’s Countryside and Heritage
Ightham Mote serves as a gateway to the Kent countryside with several scenic walking routes linking it to other National Trust sites like Knole Park and historic villages such as Shipbourne. These trails offer immersive experiences in nature and heritage, perfect for day trips or weekend getaways. The estate’s tranquil setting invites mindfulness and reflection amid its storied walls and natural beauty.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Falklands Island Monument
24.7 km
A solemn tribute in Grays honoring merchant seafarers who sacrificed their lives in the 1982 Falklands War.
Queen's House
31.2 km
Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of the Queen's House, a must-see museum and art gallery in Greenwich, London.
National Maritime Museum Gardens
31.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime history at the National Maritime Museum Gardens in London's historic Greenwich.
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
31.3 km
Explore Maritime Greenwich, where royal heritage, maritime history, and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time converge in a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
1 Greenwich Church St
31.4 km
Historic Greenwich Church Street blends medieval roots with vibrant shopping, dining, and cultural life in the heart of London’s Royal Borough of Greenwich.
Painted Hall
31.5 km
Discover the breathtaking Painted Hall in Greenwich, a Baroque masterpiece showcasing stunning frescoes and rich British naval history, perfect for art lovers.
Anchor Iron Wharf
31.5 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
Trafalgar Tavern
31.5 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Cutty Sark
31.5 km
Step aboard the world's fastest tea clipper, suspended in time above Greenwich's Thames, where echoes of ocean races and salty decks invite maritime dreams.
Cutty Sark Gardens
31.6 km
Explore Cutty Sark Gardens in London for a peaceful retreat filled with stunning river views and rich maritime history, a perfect escape from the city hustle.
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
31.6 km
A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
31.9 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
North Greenwich Pier
32.6 km
Modern Thames gateway where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture and entertainment.
City Hall
32.8 km
Discover London’s eco-friendly City Hall, a striking architectural landmark and vibrant hub of governance and public engagement on the Royal Docks waterfront.
Montague Square
33.1 km
Discover Montague Square in London, a hidden gem offering tranquility and historical charm amidst the vibrant city life, perfect for leisurely strolls and relaxation.
Unmissable attractions to see
Deer Park
4.4 km
Explore 1,000 acres of historic deer park, Tudor grandeur, and natural beauty at Knole Park in Sevenoaks, Kent.
Brands Hatch
11.2 km
Experience the thrill and history of Brands Hatch, Kent’s iconic motor racing circuit with legendary corners and world-class events.
Chartwell
13.1 km
Explore the historic home, gardens, and art studio of Winston Churchill, a peaceful retreat steeped in British history and natural beauty.
Hever Castle & Gardens
13.5 km
Explore the enchanting Tudor castle and 125 acres of award-winning gardens that tell the story of Anne Boleyn’s childhood and England’s royal past.
Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation
13.5 km
Discover majestic birds of prey and engaging wildlife experiences in Kent’s award-winning sanctuary and family-friendly refuge.
Home of Charles Darwin - Down House
17.1 km
Explore the Victorian home and gardens where Charles Darwin developed his groundbreaking theory of evolution.
St Mary Magdalene Church, Cobham
17.1 km
Discover Cobham’s medieval gem, St Mary Magdalene Church, famed for its stunning architecture and England’s finest collection of medieval brasses.
The Leather Bottle
17.2 km
Historic 17th-century pub in Cobham, beloved by Charles Dickens, offering seasonal local cuisine, a cocktail lounge, and expansive gardens.
Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar
17.9 km
Experience the living history of WWII aviation at Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar, home to the world’s largest collection of airworthy Spitfires and restoration expertise.
Biggin Hill Memorial Museum
18.8 km
Explore the heroic history of RAF Biggin Hill through immersive exhibits and the sacred Chapel of Remembrance in this inspiring memorial museum.
Bluewater Shopping Centre
20.0 km
Kent’s premier shopping and leisure destination with over 300 stores, diverse dining, and unique entertainment in a stunning natural setting.
Pooh Corner
20.9 km
Step into the enchanting world of Winnie the Pooh at Pooh Corner, a historic tea room, museum, and gift shop nestled beside Ashdown Forest.
Funky Friday Over 30's Night
21.3 km
A monthly nostalgic dance party for over 30s featuring 80s and 90s classics at Greenhithe’s welcoming Royal British Legion.
Restoration House
21.6 km
Explore Restoration House, an exquisite Elizabethan mansion in Rochester that hosted King Charles II and inspired Dickens’ Satis House, with stunning gardens and rich history.
Rochester Castle
21.7 km
Explore one of England’s finest Norman castles with towering keeps, epic siege history, and stunning views over the River Medway.
Essential places to dine
The Hill
31.0 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
31.0 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
Sefa Restaurant
31.2 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
Pho Street
31.4 km
Authentic Vietnamese pho, banh mi, and bubble tea served in a lively Greenwich setting with fresh flavors and warm hospitality.
Bill's Greenwich Restaurant
31.4 km
A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.
Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
31.4 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Goddards at Greenwich
31.4 km
Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.
Midpoint Restaurant
31.5 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
31.8 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
Billingsgate Market
33.8 km
Experience the bustling heart of London’s seafood trade at Billingsgate Market, a historic wholesale hub alive with tradition and fresh catches.
The Courtesan
34.8 km
Experience authentic dim sum, inventive cocktails, and captivating cabaret in the glamorous, intimate setting of Brixton’s The Courtesan.
The Clink Restaurant Brixton
34.9 km
Dine inside a historic prison where prisoners train as chefs, blending fine European cuisine with a powerful rehabilitation mission.
Restaurant Story
36.3 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Mercato Metropolitano
36.9 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
La Dame de Pic London
36.9 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Unique Store
30.2 km
Explore London's Unique Store: Your go-to convenience shop for local snacks, souvenirs, and essentials, right in the heart of the city.
La Boutique Vintage
30.8 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
The Junk Shop
31.3 km
Lose yourself in Greenwich's maze-like antique wonderland, where eclectic treasures, a cozy tearoom, and quirky finds await around every cluttered corner.
The Greenwich Vintage Market
31.4 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and handmade crafts in the heart of historic Greenwich’s vibrant market scene.
Joli Vintage Living
31.4 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
Arc Angel Boutique London
31.4 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
31.4 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
31.5 km
Discover maritime magic and London keepsakes at this Greenwich gem, brimming with Cutty Sark-inspired treasures and souvenirs just steps from the historic clipper ship.
Rare Books & Curios
31.5 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
5b Greenwich Market
31.5 km
Historic covered market in London’s Greenwich with antiques, artisan crafts, and global street food in a vibrant World Heritage setting.
Painted hall gift shop
31.5 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
Made in Greenwich
31.5 km
Discover Greenwich's handmade heart: a not-for-profit haven where local makers' treasures shine, fueling community creativity one unique gift at a time.
Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
31.5 km
Dive into a candy wonderland on Greenwich Church Street, where British classics and global sweets make perfect edible souvenirs in London's historic heart.
Brixton Village
34.9 km
London's most diverse market where over 100 independent traders from 50+ nations create culinary and cultural magic.
Broadway Market Tooting
35.8 km
A historic and vibrant South London market offering diverse food, unique shops, and a lively social scene since 1936.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ninety Seven Wine & Cocktail Bar
22.1 km
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Drink At Bob's
28.7 km
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The Cocktail Party
30.0 km
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Greenwich Town Social Club
31.2 km
Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.
Ye Olde Rose & Crown Greenwich
31.2 km
Traditional Greenwich pub pouring real ales and pub classics next to the theatre—perfect for families, dogs, and post-show pints in historic surrounds.
The Lost Hour
31.3 km
Greenwich's craft beer epicenter where sports, pub grub, and late-night vibes collide—lose yourself in the fun on High Road.
Kings Arms
31.4 km
Classic Greenwich pub with hearty grub, real ales, dog-friendly beer garden, and riverside vibes—perfect for post-sightseeing pints.
The Gipsy Moth
31.6 km
Historic Greenwich pub with Cutty Sark views, hearty grub, beer garden bliss, and live music vibes—perfect for nautical nostalgia and relaxed revelry.
Mindful Mixology
31.7 km
A compact Greenwich cocktail bar focused on lower-sugar craft drinks, hands-on masterclasses and a calm riverside atmosphere.
Td 338 Bar
32.1 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
All Bar One Greenwich
32.7 km
Elevate your O2 experience at this multi-floor haven of wines, cocktails, and event-night energy—perfect for pre-show feasts and lively toasts amid London's entertainment epicenter.
Eighteen Sky Bar
33.0 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
Fête Lounge
33.2 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktails and afternoon teas in a lively, welcoming lounge at Upminster’s Fête Lounge.
Vertigo
33.8 km
A lively multi-level bar and restaurant in Hornchurch, perfect for casual drinks, celebrations, and enjoying great music in a stylish setting.
The Shrub and Shutter
34.7 km
Innovative cocktail bar and modern British restaurant offering unique shrub-based drinks and eclectic small plates in Brixton’s vibrant heart.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Air & Breathe Nightclub
21.2 km
Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
CQ LOUNGE
30.5 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
Oliver's Jazz Bar
31.2 km
Experience the soulful rhythms and vibrant atmosphere at Oliver's Jazz Bar, where great music meets delightful drinks in the heart of London.
The Bunker
31.6 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
The Hatch Club
32.1 km
A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.
The Venue
32.2 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
LA Lounge
32.5 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
American Express Invites Lounge
32.8 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
33.1 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
Club 701
34.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
Phonox
35.2 km
Phonox: Brixton’s cutting-edge nightclub where underground electronic beats meet a vibrant, spacious dancefloor and top-tier sound.
E1
36.1 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Infernos Nightclub
36.2 km
Clapham’s legendary two-floor nightclub where wild nights, iconic music, and unforgettable parties come alive until dawn.
Corsica Studios
36.6 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
The Loft Basildon
36.8 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly