Visits to Ightam Mote and Penshurst.

On 17th July 19 CGS members visited these two pre-Elizabethan houses and gardens, both dating from the14th century

Ightam Mote.

The first, more interesting for the house than its gardens, is one of the best examples remaining of a “fortified” manor house.  In this case, however, the “mote” is thought to have been more decorative than useful, a sign of status.  Its former owners were squires, sheriffs, MPs, even courtiers with royal connections but they never aspired to higher office or lavish entertainment and were mostly indifferent to changes in fashion.  Such additions as were made to the house were therefore “traditional”.  After falling into disrepair in the early 20th century, it was rescued from demolition by three local men.  The last owner, an American, gave it to the National Trust in 1985.

Penshurst Place

This grand medieval pile was built as a “hall house” for a Lord Mayor of London, its Great Hall still its focal point with an open fire in its centre.  Two subsequent owners had the misfortune of simultaneously losing both their house and their heads, the first offending Henry VIII and the second his son, Edward VI.   Eventually granted to Sir William Sydney by Edward VI, it has remained in the Sidney family ever since, the present owner being Philip Sidney, Viscount De L’Isle.

The 48 acres of grounds include 11 acres of formal Grade I listed gardens, among the oldest in private ownership.  With early records dating back to 1346, they are considered to be one of the most beautiful in England.  They are divided into sections, all quite formal, including a rose garden, heraldic garden and herbaceous borders, the most significant being the parterre-style garden behind the house itself.  There is also an orchard and kitchen garden.  Plenty to see of interest, with seasonal displays including peonies.