insideKENT Magazine Issue 43 - October 2015 | Page 101

DAYSOUT CHIDDINGSTONE CASTLE Chiddingstone Castle may be wrapping up for the winter but a few lucky patrons have the chance to explore the depth of the historic house even after the doors close for the season. The Edenbridge landmark is undoubtedly one of Kent’s hidden gems, with its grand manor house and lush gardens offering visitors a sumptuous day out. Its origins can be traced back to the early 1500s and it has undergone many fascinating architectural changes and uses throughout its life. Today it houses the art collections of the late Denys Eyre Bower, including Japanese lacquer and Samurai armour, Ancient Egyptian treasures, Buddhist objects, Stuart paintings and Jacobite manuscripts. Set in 35 acres of informal gardens with breathtaking views of the North Downs, the grounds offer plenty of picnic spots, romantic strolls in the intimate rose garden, fun-fun-filled expeditions in the woodland and peaceful contemplation by the beautiful fishing lake. This year and for the first time, the castle is offering some very special behind-the-scenes group tours throughout the winter, where groups of 25 or more can journey through the historic house and access areas not usually open to visitors. The tours include afternoon tea, complete with a glass of sherry or mulled wine, making it a wonderful outing for large groups of friends or family. Book by calling 01892 872746 or emailing [email protected]. Smaller groups of visitors need not despair either – as the castle will host special winter afternoon teas in the White Rose Drawing Room or grand Great Hall on 6th and 13th December. Prebooking is essential! And don’t forget the always popular Christmas Fair on Saturday 28th November, with wonderful stalls in the Castle’s historic rooms and heated marquee too. Mulled wine and mince pies will add to the festive cheer! For more information, visit www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk TREAT YOURSELF TO A DIFFERENT EXPERIENCE THIS WINTER – VISIT CHIDDINGSTONE CASTLE, A UNIQUE ENGLISHMAN’S HOME… CHRISTMAS FAIR – SATURDAY, 28TH NOVEMBER WINTER AFTERNOON TEAS – SUNDAYS, 6TH AND 13TH DECEMBER SPECIAL BEHIND-THE-SCENES WINTER GUIDED TOURS For information or booking for any of the above, please call 01892 872746 or email [email protected] www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk 101