The most stately of stately homes, Knole house has been the residence of Henry VIII, The Archbishop of Canterbury, and many Lords, Ladies, Counts, Earls and Dukes. Now it is managed by the National Trust and open to all who are willing to part with £3.50. This fee does not extend to the grounds which free to roam and are inhabited by friendly deer. Below is the West Front, an almost 100m stretch of Kentish ragstone. This is the view that will greet visitors. 

Once through the main entrance is The Green Court and the second archway before entering the house proper. 

Then on softening in appearance again is the stone court. The building had been constructed and designed over and over since the 16th century and so no one Architect is credited with Knole House and in the case of the front it is noted as being the design of Henry VIII himself.

Not to spoil a visit for anyone considering attending I will not show any of the galleries, bedrooms, ballrooms or halls but instead the book shop installed by the National trust. Here one can find all the information for making a home in the style of Knole.

For the Kidlywinks there is an area with toys, games and appropriate literature along with a reading corner/ play area.

Adjacent to the book shop it the Orangery which despite it’s name contains a sculpture and a seating area.

Just over a mile from Sevenoaks train station this would make a worthwhile day trip to anyone living or visiting the capital.