Penshurst Place and Gardens
A magnificent 14th-century manor house and gardens, steeped in history and famously used as a filming location.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Penshurst Place and Gardens
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 14th-century manor house and gardens, steeped in history and famously used as a filming location.
"An absolute gem, both the castle and gardens are in great condition and full of beautiful details."
🎯 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking on-site, making your arrival hassle-free.
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy lunch or refreshments at The Porcupine Pantry cafe.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Hall
Manor House
Step back in time in this magnificent 14th-century hall, a centerpiece of Tudor grandeur and history.
The Gardens
Various sections
Explore eleven acres of exquisite gardens, from vibrant floral borders to tranquil hidden paths.
Adventure Playground
Grounds
A fantastic spot for children to burn energy with swings, slides, and climbing structures.
Toy Museum
Manor House
Discover a charming collection of antique toys, offering a delightful glimpse into childhood past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Fewer Crowds
Family Fun & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking on-site, making your arrival hassle-free.
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy lunch or refreshments at The Porcupine Pantry cafe.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the longer walks around the grounds for keen walkers.
🎬 Filming Location
See where 'Wolf Hall' and 'The Other Boleyn Girl' were filmed!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking on-site, making your arrival hassle-free.
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy lunch or refreshments at The Porcupine Pantry cafe.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the longer walks around the grounds for keen walkers.
🎬 Filming Location
See where 'Wolf Hall' and 'The Other Boleyn Girl' were filmed!
🧸 Toy Museum Fun
Kids (and adults!) love the charming toy museum.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Penshurst Place and Gardens for its rich history, breathtaking gardens, and well-preserved manor house. Many highlight the engaging experience for families, the helpfulness of the guides, and the convenience of free parking and on-site cafe. While some wish more of the house was accessible, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending it as a perfect weekend trip for history and aesthetics.
"Wonderful. Well worth a day of your time. The house itself is absolutely fabulous. The gardens are to die for! If you love history, you'll LOVE Penshurst Place & Gardens. Gorgeous shop, great cafe and beautiful grounds. The staff are great and really know their stuff."
Lynette Riley
"Thoroughly enjoyed wandering around the beautiful Grade I listed 11 acres formal walled gardens, dating back to the 14th century. Each wall garden is full of pleasant surprises, and very relaxing. Inside the historic house, the 14th century Baron’s hall is extraordinary, and well-preserved. It was easy to spend half or a day here, especially during the warm summer months."
Rebecca L
"What an incredibly historic building, that's been used in period dramas. Steeped in fascinating history with well informed volunteers at hand. The gardens are breathtaking. Great café. Free parking. Highly recommend."
Gill Jones
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Penshurst Place is easily accessible by car, located in Kent. There is ample free parking available on-site for visitors.
Yes, you can reach Penshurst Place via public transport. Trains run to Penshurst station, and the venue is a short walk from there.
From London, you can take a train to Penshurst station or drive via the M25 and A21. The journey is approximately 30 miles southeast of London.
Penshurst Place is well-signposted in the village of Penshurst, making it straightforward to locate.
There are extensive free parking facilities available on the grounds, which are convenient for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Penshurst Place and Gardens typically opens from 10:30 AM, with closing times varying seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date Penshurst Place opening times before your visit.
Ticket prices for Penshurst Place can vary. It's recommended to check the official Penshurst Place tickets page for current pricing and any potential discounts.
Yes, purchasing Penshurst Place tickets online in advance is often recommended to secure your entry and sometimes to get better rates.
Information on discounts for Penshurst Place, such as family tickets or group rates, can usually be found on their official website. Keep an eye out for special offers.
While not always mandatory, booking Penshurst Place tickets in advance is advisable, especially during peak season or for special events, to guarantee entry.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Families can enjoy the adventure playground, explore the historic manor house, wander through the beautiful gardens, and participate in seasonal craft events.
Yes, Penshurst Place features a popular adventure playground that is a big hit with children.
Penshurst Place is a 14th-century fortified manor house with a rich history, including connections to Henry VIII and the Sidney family, who have owned it since 1552. It's also a filming location for historical dramas. +1
Informative guides are often available to answer questions and share insights about the history of Penshurst Place and its collections.
The gardens at Penshurst Place are extensive, covering eleven acres with vibrant floral borders, tranquil paths, and features like a peony border. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Penshurst Place has a cafe called The Porcupine Pantry, offering refreshments and lunch options.
The Porcupine Pantry cafe offers a selection of food, including lunch options that visitors have recommended.
While not explicitly mentioned as a regular offering, some visitors enjoy a lovely lunch at the cafe. Check their website for current dining options.
While not explicitly stated, the extensive grounds may offer opportunities for picnics. It's best to confirm with the venue directly.
The village of Penshurst itself offers charming local eateries and tea rooms in addition to the cafe on-site.
📸 📸 Photography
The gardens, with their floral borders and tranquil paths, offer stunning photographic opportunities. The Great Hall and other historic interiors are also very photogenic.
Photography is generally allowed inside Penshurst Place, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions in certain areas or for flash photography.
Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour light for photography in the gardens and on the grounds.
The 100-meter long peony border in the gardens is a particularly striking feature for photographers during bloom season.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites like Penshurst Place to protect the heritage and ensure visitor safety. It's best to inquire directly with the venue.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Don't miss the seasonal events and craft activities often held for children, especially during half-term and holidays. These events make the visit even more engaging. The gardens also offer space for exploration, and the overall historical atmosphere provides an educational backdrop to the fun.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Photographers
Photographers will find endless inspiration in the exquisite gardens, particularly the vibrant peony border, and the architectural details of the manor house. The golden hour light in the late afternoon can create magical shots across the grounds. Remember to check for any specific photography guidelines within the house.
+1🌿 Garden Enthusiasts
+2Keep an eye out for seasonal garden events, such as the Glorious Gardens Weekend, which often include tours with the Head Gardener, offering expert insights into the horticultural practices and history of the grounds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through History at Penshurst Place
The manor house itself is a treasure trove of historical artifacts, including extensive armor collections, weaponry, and portraits of the Sidney family. The Great Hall, with its impressive architecture, is a highlight, evoking the grandeur of Tudor times. Beyond the house, the estate has also served as a captivating filming location for numerous historical dramas, including 'Wolf Hall' and 'The Other Boleyn Girl,' adding another layer to its allure.
Visitors often remark on the well-informed guides and volunteers who bring the history to life, sharing fascinating anecdotes and details about the house and its former inhabitants. The preservation efforts by the Sidney family are widely praised, allowing guests to experience the splendor of this grand building in all its glory.
The Enchanting Gardens of Penshurst Place
+1A particular highlight is the impressive 100-meter long peony border, which showcases a stunning array of pink peony varieties during their blooming season. This vibrant display is a photographer's dream and a testament to the garden's horticultural excellence. The gardens also feature orchards and other thematic areas, ensuring there's always something new to discover around every corner.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or simply appreciate natural beauty, the Penshurst Place Gardens offer a magical escape. The seasonal events, such as the Glorious Gardens Weekend, further enhance the experience, often including tours with the Head Gardener and horticultural exhibitors.
+1Family Adventures at Penshurst Place
+1Beyond the playground, the manor house itself offers engaging experiences for younger visitors. The toy museum, with its collection of antique toys, is a particular hit, sparking imagination and curiosity. Exploring the rooms where historical figures once walked also adds an educational element to the visit, making history tangible and exciting for kids.
Furthermore, Penshurst Place frequently hosts seasonal events and craft activities tailored for children, especially during school holidays. These events add an extra layer of entertainment and ensure that a family visit is both fun and memorable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit