We have been on a mission to seek out the best local National Trust places for families and visited Scotney Castle during October Half Term. I had been advised by several people that this was a good place to visit with kids, so was intrigued to see if it would live up to my expectations.
Scotney Castle
Located just outside Lamberhurst, up a long and winding driveway, Scotney Castle dates back to an incredible 1137. Tickets to look around the house are given on arrival, and we decided to go for the next slot, meaning we were able to start our tour just a few minutes after getting there. There was a quiz for the children to take around the house, keeping my kids occupied at least for a while!
I found the house itself fascinating. It opened to the public in 2007, not long after Betty, the last owner, had passed away. It feels as though everything has been kept pretty much the way it had been – with ornaments, trinkets and books adorning each room. The bright master bedroom with a double aspect of the beautiful grounds was probably my favourite room and we even spotted Betty’s cat in the kitchen, which the boys made a beeline for!
Kid’s Activities
As we visited close to Halloween, there was a pumpkin trail taking place throughout the grounds. The kids sped along the pathways looking for clues and although we weren’t successful with finding the last two pumpkins, we had a guess at the two missing words and luckily they were given their very ‘sweet’ prize at the end. Most school holidays there’s something going on in the grounds for kids.
The autumn colours on many of the trees and leaves were just stunning and although the house had been fairly busy, it felt very calm and peaceful as we strolled around the gardens. There are lots of different routes to take, and it is fairly easy to cover most of it even with two young kids. The main route is approximately two miles long. Be aware dogs are welcome in the estate, but have to be kept on the lead at all times.
The castle ruins, surrounded by a moated lake, were another highlight and my eldest son was captivated by the little door behind which Father Richard Blount, S.J. was hidden while he ministered to Roman Catholics in the late 1500s.
We saved our visit to the Badger and Pepper play area (named after previous owners’ dogs) until last and the boys had great fun playing with other children launching tennis balls down the giant marble run. The whole play area has such a distinctly natural feel to it with a mud kitchen, natural drum kit and ball run too. Look out for the tree swings and den building while you’re there as well!
The Verdict
I love that the National Trust properties provide facilities like this for families and know we will be going back there again and again. There’s a lovely cafe and gift shop at Scotney Castle too, which we are looking forward to exploring on our next visit.
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Clare Lush Mansell
Founder & Editor
Meet Clare Lush-Mansell, the creative force behind My Tunbridge Wells. Having spent a decade working in PR and communications, Clare founded My Tunbridge Wells in 2015. Clare enjoys sharing her experiences & local life exploring the beauty of Tunbridge Wells and beyond while she navigates parenting three children!
A globetrotter at heart, Clare grew up in Ireland and lived in Australia and Russia before settling in sunny Kent. These experiences have infused her passion for travel, and she also loves meeting new people, singing and her cats.
© Portrait image by Mollie Manning
