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Steeped in an endearing mixture of recent and past history, and nestling in the beautiful, rolling Kent Weald, Chiddingstone Castle is one of the county’s hidden treasures. Set in 35 acres of grounds including a lake, a rose garden and woodland, this attractive country house is situated in the heart of the village of Chiddingstone, itself dating back to the 14th Century.

The property’s origins date from the 1550s when High Street House, as the Castle was then known, was the home of the Streatfeild family. Several transformations have since taken place and the present building dates back to 1805 when Henry Streatfeild extended and remodelled his ancestral home in the “castle style” which was then fashionable.

After a turbulent first part of the 20th Century, during which the Castle was at times a school and headquarters to Canadian Armed Forces during the Second World War, the estate was then rescued by Denys Bower. In 1955 this passionate, and sometimes eccentric collector, bought the Castle to display his magnificent collections to the Public. These collections include:

One of the most varied group of Egyptian antiquities in private ownership in the United Kingdom, with artefacts extending from the Pre-Dynastic to Ptolemaic periods.

A stunning collection of Japanese lacquer, swords, armour and fine art, acknowledged as one of the finest in Europe. The Jacobite Collection, consisting of antiques, paintings and manuscripts displayed in a country house setting as Denys Bower wished. A small but beautiful collection of Buddhist and South East Asian antiquities.

Today the Castle is under the stewardship of the Trustees of the Denys Eyre Bower Bequest, and is a member of the Historic Houses Association of Great Britain. It is open for visitors to view the collections and to enjoy the unspoilt grounds set around the beautiful lake, as well as to spend time in the enchanting village.

The Bequest’s emphasis today is on fulfilling Denys Bower’s wish to preserve and display his collections for the Nation, as well as providing an informal and welcoming environment for educational activities, young people’s study groups and school visits.

The Castle is also a popular venue for weddings, cultural and musical events as well as private and corporate functions. The grounds incorporate a newly refurbished, award-winning Orangery which is licensed for civil ceremonies and has provided a stunning backdrop for musical performances. Additionally, the Castle has hosted a number of location shoots for film and television, and its friendly approach to visitors means that almost any special occasion can be accommodated.

Chiddingstone Castle is located in the heart of the beautiful village of Chiddingstone which dates from 1453 and parts of which are owned by the National Trust. It lies between the larger towns of Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells and is conveniently located close to the M25 and A21. More information about visiting, conferences and weddings is available on their Website.

Opening Times - 2010:

Good Friday to 26th September: Sunday - Wednesday, 11 am - 5 pm (last entry 4.15 pm)

But please consult their Website for confirmation of opening days and times.

Admission Prices - 2010:

Adult - £7
Child (5-15yrs) - £4
Child (under 5) - Free
Concession - £6

Family Pass (2+2 or 1+3, includes 15 activity days) - £48.50
Adult Season Pass - £20

Groups (20+): £5