TOWNSPOTLIGHT
S P O T L I G H T
O N
SEVENOAKS
Steeped in history and peppered with dazzling stately homes, rolling parkland and traditional Kentish
architecture, the opulent town of Sevenoaks sits firmly at the front of Kent's destination guide. Yet,
located in the High Weald, this popular town and district not only has rural splendour in its favour
– it also boasts first-class eateries, unique independent boutiques and enviable transport links to
the cultural capital and beyond.
history in brief
With few records pre 13th century, and
prior to establishing itself as a victorious
market town in 1200, Sevenoaks was
originally part of the Archbishop of
Canterbury’s Manor of neighbouring
village, Otford. The significance
of Sevenoaks’ position was only realised
after the two main roads from London
and Dartford were merged into one main
route, therefore easing access through
the High Weald and down to the south
coast. After this realisation, Sevenoaks
developed into a significant market town,
but it wasn't until it secured a high influx
of trade and an economic rise, that it
became a manor in its own right.
things to see and do
exhibits memorabilia and artwork from as far back
as the 15th century, while the estate's 11-acre
Elizabethan walled gardens, seasonal Toy
Museum and Porcupine Pantry Café are just
some of the other delights on offer.
Chartwell – A National Trust-run property,
Chartwell has been preserved in such a way that
it still pays homage to its most famous resident:
Sir Winston Churchill. While the studio is home
to the largest single collection of Churchill's
paintings, there is also a popular self-service
restaurant on site, plus free talks, tours and
activities on selected days.
Hever Castle – The childhood home of Anne
Boleyn, Hever Castle is one of Kent's finest
attractions. Enchanting in spirit, this doublemoated, 13th-century castle boasts mazes,
seasonal gardens, audio tours, restaurants, and
much more in its 125 acres of spectacular
parkland.
Penshurst Place & Gardens – Once described
as the 'grandest and most perfectly preserved
example of a fortified manor house in all of
England', Penshurst Place & Gardens is a true
Kentish gem. Here, the Sidney family home
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Ightham Mote – Head across to Ightham Mote,
a stunning 14th-century moated manor house,
which counts medieval knights, courtiers, Henry
VIII and high society Victorians amongst its past
residents. Highlights of this Na ѥ