About Ightham Mote
Ightham Mote is nestled in a hidden valley at the centre of a sequence of water features of medieval origin. The intimate scale, warm homely, family atmosphere, through mist or with the sun glittering on the moat, creates a fairy-tale picture of England past and present, for all to enjoy and to relax in.
The gardens around the 700-year-old moated manor house provide formal lawns, herbaceous borders, shrubs, roses, spring-fed fountain pools, cascades, courtyards and a cutting garden. While a gentle stroll will reveal the informal pleasure grounds, with trees, north & south lakes, stream, stumpery and orchard for peaceful relaxation. The reinstated walled garden, which housed a car park until recently, is being brought back to life.
The landscape surrounding this country house has provided the backdrop, setting, food and raw materials for life at Ightham Mote. A visit to the garden, house and estate reveals how 700 years of history have left their mark, reflecting changes in the status of the owners, garden design, agricultural methods and woodland management.