We have numerous splendid historic houses and castles in the area to visit.
Here are a few of note, but there are so many more places to discover. There are some wonderful gardens close to Gravetye too. Our team will be more than happy to help you with your planning.
The only one of its kind open to the public, this beautiful 15th century Wealden hall house stands in a traditional cottage garden in the picturesque nearby village of West Hoathly. The house was owned in turn by Henry VIII, Thomas Cromwell, Anne of Cleves, Mary I and Elizabeth I.
Visit: www.sussexpast.co.uk/properties-to-discover/the-priest-house
Dating from the 1890s and containing original Morris & Co furnishings and decorations, Standen survives today as a remarkable testimony to the ideas of the Arts and Crafts movement.
Visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/standen-house-and-garden
This was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII's second wife. In 1903, the estate was bought by the American millionaire, William Waldorf Astor who spent an immense amount of money and imagination restoring the castle. One of the most magnificent areas of the gardens is the Italian Garden, which was designed to display Astor's collection of Italian sculpture. Other attractions include the maze, water maze and 38 acre lake.
Visit: www.hevercastle.co.uk
One of England's greatest family owned stately homes with a history going back six and a half centuries. A marvellous mix of paintings, tapestries and furniture from the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries can be seen throughout the house. The gardens were first laid out in the 14th century and have been developed over successive years by the Sidney family who first came to Penshurst in 1552.
Visit: www.penshurstplace.com
The family home of Sir Winston Churchill from 1924 until the end of his life. Musuem and Exhibition rooms contain displays, sound recordings and superb collections of memorabilia from Sir Winston's political career.
Visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell
The Pavilion is the former seaside residence of King George VI. Originally a simple farmhouse, in 1787 architect Henry Holland created a neo-classical villa on the site. It was later transformed into its current Indian style by John Nash between 1815 and 1822. A breathtaking Regency Palace.
Visit: www.brightonmuseums.org.uk/royalpavilion
Dating from the 11th century, the Castle is both ancient fortification and stately home of the Dukes of Norfolk and their ancestors and is now the principal residence of the present 18th Duke and Duchess and their family.
Visit: www.arundelcastle.org
Batemans - This was the home of Rudyard Kipling for over 30 years. This home inspired him to write some of his well-loved works including Puck of Pooks Hill and Rewards and Fairies.
Visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/batemans
