As the vibrant greens of summer transform into a tapestry of gold and amber, many Londoners are seeking out enchanting autumnal escapes. For a destination that feels like stepping into the pages of a storybook, look no further than Scotney Castle in Kent, a breathtaking historical estate located just under 90 minutes from the capital.
A Scene of Pure Autumn Magic
This idyllic location has been hailed as delivering 'pure autumn magic' by travel influencer Sevi Nabiyeva, who shares her adventures with over 14,000 followers on TikTok. Showcasing stunning footage from her visit, she described the sensation of being just an hour from London yet feeling completely transported to a fairy tale realm.
She enthused about the castle's seasonal charm, highlighting the golden leaves, misty reflections in the moat, and the profound quiet unique to the countryside. Her followers were quick to agree, with one commenting on the soul-restoring quality of a visit, while others called it 'cosy' and expressed their love for the property.
Discover the History and Gardens
Nestled in the beautiful valley of the River Bewl near Lamberhurst in Kent, Scotney Castle is under the care of the National Trust. The site boasts renowned gardens that are recognised as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and are open to the public throughout the year.
The undeniable star of the show is the Scotney Old Castle, the romantic ruins of a medieval, moated manor house situated picturesquely on an island within a small lake. This stunning centrepiece is surrounded by terraced gardens lined with trees, which offer spectacular seasonal displays.
Visitors can enjoy vibrant rhododendrons, azaleas, and kalmia in the spring, followed by beautiful wisteria and roses in the summer. At the top of the garden stands Scotney New Castle, a residence built between 1835 and 1843 to replace the old castle. Designed by architect Anthony Salvin, this building is an early and important example of the Tudor Revival architectural style in 19th-century Britain.
Planning Your Visit
The New Castle opened to the public for the first time on 6 June 2007, following the passing of its last resident, Elizabeth Hussey, in 2006. For those planning a trip, entrance requires a ticket unless you are a National Trust member, in which case grounds access is free.
For non-members, admission costs are as follows: Adults pay £20.00 with Gift Aid or £19.00 without, while children aged 5-17 are charged £10.50 with Gift Aid or £9.50 without. Children under the age of 5 can enter for free, and family and group discounts are available. All ticket details and current opening hours can be found on the Scotney Castle section of the National Trust website.
Offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and undeniable seasonal charm, Scotney Castle stands out as an ideal autumnal destination for a memorable family day out from London.
