30 days in April

Hi Betsy! I haven't been to Igtham Mote, so can't comment on that. However, based on my own experience, I really love Knole and would vote for that. It has huge grounds full of deer which are wonderful to explore, and the house itself is beautiful.

I have really enjoyed following planning for your trip. Not to overload you, but have you also looked at Leeds Castle? I once had a very nice day visiting Sissinghurst in the morning and then Leeds Castle in the afternoon, tho we rented a car for that so I'm not sure how easy it is to do both in one day on public transport. Good luck!

Hi Cat - thank you! I’ll try to post about my adventures as you all have been so helpful!

I think I’d really love Knole - thank you!

Is that an all day thing?

I took a look at Leeds Castle website last night - it seems like, inside, it’s essentially decorated as a 1930’s manor house? Which is lovely - but I just don’t know that it’s something that I’d go out of my way for

But that makes me think - if Sissinhgurst isn’t an all day affair, if it’s just half a day, maybe I could spend some time in Cranbrook…

Thank you!!

Hi Betsy! I haven't been to Igtham Mote, so can't comment on that.
However, based on my own experience, I really love Knole and would
vote for that. It has huge grounds full of deer which are wonderful to
explore, and the house itself is beautiful. I have really enjoyed
following planning for your trip. Not to overload you, but have you
also looked at Leeds Castle? I once had a very nice day visiting
Sissinghurst in the morning and then Leeds Castle in the afternoon,
tho we rented a car for that so I'm not sure how easy it is to do both
in one day on public transport. Good luck!

For Knole, we spent a whole day there on a day trip from London, but we brought our dog so spent a lot of time walking the grounds (and taking turns going in the house!). The grounds are huge so if you'd like a nice long walk it can take a whole day- if you're mostly interested in the house it will be less time.

You are correct about Leeds Castle- it's actually quite interesting as it's been a castle since medieval times, but they continued to update it through the 1930s. Some parts of it still look a bit old tho much has been modernised. They also have huge grounds which are nice for strolling.

I definitely wouldn't say Sissinghurst is an all day visit- you mostly just visit the garden (which is sizeable, but not huge) and the tower (what actually remains of the original castle). It's definitely worth it and one of the highlights of Kent- especially when you're staying so close- but you could definitely plan another activity into the day. I hope that's helpful! :)

Cat, thanks!

I’ll play it by ear - I’m trying to actually to a lot more walking and outdoor activities while in the UK, so I’m in no rush at all!

For Knole, we spent a whole day there on a day trip from London, but
we brought our dog so spent a lot of time walking the grounds (and
taking turns going in the house!). The grounds are huge so if you'd
like a nice long walk it can take a whole day- if you're mostly
interested in the house it will be less time.

I was too hasty - I love that your period, and it will be a nice change of pace from all the HISTORY I’m going to immerse myself in

Back on the list!

You are correct about Leeds Castle- it's actually quite interesting as
it's been a castle since medieval times, but they continued to update
it through the 1930s. Some parts of it still look a bit old tho much
has been modernised. They also have huge grounds which are nice for
strolling.

Sounds like a fine day out - and the gardens should be magnificent in June

Very helpful - thank you!!!

I definitely wouldn't say Sissinghurst is an all day visit- you mostly
just visit the garden (which is sizeable, but not huge) and the tower
(what actually remains of the original castle). It's definitely worth
it and one of the highlights of Kent- especially when you're staying
so close- but you could definitely plan another activity into the day.
I hope that's helpful! :)

Another place recommended to me is Bateman’s, Rudyard Kipling’s former home

It looks fantastic