Penshurst Place

PENSHURST PLACE is one of England's greatest family-owned stately homes with a history going back six and a half centuries. In some ways time has stood still at Penshurst; the great House is still very much a medieval building with improvements and additions made over the centuries but without any substantial rebuilding. Its highlight is undoubtedly the medieval Barons' Hall, built in 1341, with its impressive 60ft-high chestnut-beamed roof. A marvellous mix of paintings, tapestries and furniture from the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries can be seen throughout the House, including the helm carried in the state funeral procession to St. Paul's Cathedral for the Elizabethan courtier and poet, Sir Philip Sidney, in 1587. This is now the family crest. GARDENS The Gardens, first laid out in the 14th century, have been developed over successive years by the Sidney family who first came to Penshurst in 1552. A twenty-year restoration and re-planting programme undertaken by the late Viscount De L'Isle has ensured that they retain their historic splendour. He is commemorated with a new Arboretum, planted in 1991. The gardens are divided by a mile of yew hedges into "rooms", each planted to give a succession of colour as the seasons change. There is also an Adventure Playground, Nature Trail and Toy Museum for children. OPENING TIMES SUMMER: From 27 February weekends only. 28 March - 31 October House Daily, 12 - 5.30pm Last entry 5pm. Grounds Daily, 11am - 6pm. WINTER: November - March open weekends. Open to Groups by appointment only (see Guided Tours)