Located with the valley of the River Bewl and within the South-East region of Lamberhurst lies Scotney Castle.
Scotney is now owned and maintained by the National Trust since the death of Christopher Hussey in 1970. Several apartments on the estate were let out by the Trust, to tenants, including Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Following the death of Elizabeth Hussey in 2006 the grounds and house were opened to the public and the first public visitors arrived on the 6th June 2007.
Scotney Castle is made up of the Main House located at the top of the gardens and the Old Castle is located at the bottom of the gardens, with moat around two sides of the Old Castle.
The Darrell family owned the house for some 350 years and in 1778 Edward Hussey bought the Estate and it was his grandson, also named Edward who built the Main House at the top of the gardens.
Main House
The main house was built to replace the Old Castle between 1835 and 1843 and was designed by Anthony Salvin.
The main house is steeped with heritage and charm. And the rooms are full of exhibits about the castle and those who lived there. Including, a formal dining room, bedrooms and drawing room.
The National Trust guides who are placed around the main house, are helpful and very knowledgeable and they can be found in the formal rooms. They are willing to answer questions and show you things that you can easily miss on your visit... what with so much to do and see, things can easily get overlooked.
As you walk down the hill to the Old Castle, you have the rock garden and formal gardens. You can walk around the old castle by the lake and through ruins of the old castle.
We have visited Scotney Castle several times... and throughout the seasons. And each time we find something new to explore. The grounds are extensive with so much to see and with such beauty.
Mind you a comfortable pair of shoes is a must... It is easy walking down to the Old Castle but after walking around the grounds and gardens... that climb back up to the top and exit can take its toll, especially to those that have walking difficulties. So be prepared for a hike.
The Old Castle
Scotney Castle is well worth a visit... if you are in Kent. And by the main house there is a gift shop and refreshments. There is ample parking and Scotney is just located just off of A21.
Address - Lamberhurst, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 8JB - If using a sat nav please use the postcode TN3 8JB and once you are on the A21 please follow the brown tourist information signs for Scotney Castle.
Other Places to Visit
- Bateman's
- Sissinghurst Castle
- Bodiam Castle
- Chiddingstone Village and Chiddingstone Castle.
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Credits:
Brashley Photography