Scotney Castle, Kent: A Complete Guide
Nestled in the rolling Weald of Kent, Scotney Castle is one of the National Trust’s most enchanting properties. A blend of romance, history, and natural beauty, it combines a ruined medieval castle, a grand Victorian mansion, and 780 acres of parkland, woodland, and gardens. With its moated island, sweeping views, and picturesque walks, Scotney Castle Estate truly is a castle for all seasons.
Whether you’re here for a family adventure, a peaceful garden stroll, or a taste of English history, Scotney Castle offers a magical experience just outside Tunbridge Wells.
History and Heritage
The story of Scotney stretches back to the 14th century, when the original moated castle was built. This atmospheric ruin now sits at the heart of the estate’s famous Picturesque-style garden.
In the 19th century, Edward Hussey III commissioned the construction of the Victorian mansion house that overlooks the valley, blending formality with family charm. Today, visitors can explore both — discovering over 600 years of English heritage in one of Kent’s most beautiful country estates.
Explore the Estate
The Medieval Castle
The romantic ruined castle sits on its own island, surrounded by a tranquil moat and framed by lush gardens. Once a fortified manor house, it now forms the centrepiece of the estate’s Picturesque design. From April to October, visitors can step inside to explore exhibitions such as “Islandness” by visual storyteller Rebecca Douglas, bringing the castle’s unique character to life.
The Victorian Mansion
Built in the mid-1800s, the mansion house showcases one of the largest and most eclectic collections in the National Trust. Its interiors reflect both Victorian refinement and the relaxed sociability of family life. The house remains open until early November before closing briefly for conservation work and reopening for the festive season in late November.
Scotney Castle in Kent
The Gardens
Scotney’s gardens are among the best examples of Picturesque landscape design in the UK. Winding paths lead through quarry gardens, woodland glades, heather-thatched icehouses, and a charming Victorian boathouse. The edges between wild and cultivated nature are deliberately blurred, creating a sense of timeless tranquillity.
Don’t miss the walled kitchen garden, a one-acre haven filled with fruit trees, vegetables, and cut-flowers — all cultivated in keeping with the estate’s sustainable ethos.
The Estate and Parkland
Stretching across 780 acres, the Scotney estate offers a network of waymarked walking routes, including trails leading to the last working hop farm in the National Trust. Much of the land is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and supports rare flora and fauna. Look out for grazing Longhorn and Sussex cattle in the North Park area.
Visitor Information
Opening Hours & Tickets
Admission covers the house, gardens, castle, and wider estate. Tickets* include access to the Coach House tea-room, shop, and bookshop.
*Prices are subject to change at the discretion of the attraction.
Scotney Castle Admission Prices
Includes access to the house, ruined castle, gardens, estate walks, tea-room and facilities.
Under-5s go free. National Trust members visit and park for free.
| Ticket Type | With Gift Aid | Without Gift Aid | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult (18+) | £20.90 | £19.00 | Includes access to mansion, gardens & castle |
| Child (5–17) | £10.50 | £9.50 | Under-5s free |
| Family (2 adults + up to 3 children) | £52.30 | £47.50 | Perfect for families visiting the full estate |
| 1 Adult + up to 3 Children | £31.40 | £28.50 | Reduced family rate |
| Group (Adult 18+) | — | £18.05 | Minimum 15 people per booking |
| Group (Child 5–17) | — | £9.03 | School & youth groups welcome |
Food, Drink & Shopping
The Coach House Tea-room
Enjoy seasonal dishes, hot and cold lunches, homemade cakes, and Kentish ice creams at the Coach House Tea-room. Indoor and outdoor seating makes it ideal for all weather.
Courtyard Kiosk
During summer, grab drinks, snacks, or even dog ice creams from the courtyard kiosk — perfect for quick refreshments while exploring.
Bookshop
Don’t miss Betsy’s second-hand bookshop, stocked with pre-loved books from as little as 50p. Every purchase supports conservation at Scotney Castle.
Shop & Plant Centre
The gift shop features local produce, homeware, and keepsakes, while the plant shop offers perennials and garden ornaments grown in peat-free compost. Many plants are raised on-site in sustainable “hairy” pots — a small step toward a greener garden.
Accessibility
Scotney Castle welcomes all visitors and offers:
Accessible parking (pre-booked)
Level access to the shop, tea-room, and mansion house
Wheelchair-friendly routes across much of the garden and estate
Mobility scooters and manual wheelchairs (book ahead on 01892 893820)
Accessible toilets and baby-changing facilities in the courtyard
Video tours of upper mansion rooms for visitors unable to use stairs
Family-Friendly Highlights
Scotney Castle is a paradise for families:
Buggy-friendly paths and natural play areas
Picnic tables and open lawns
Children’s meals in the tea-room
Seasonal family trails and workshops
Regular guided tours introducing kids to nature and history
Dog-Friendly Days Out
With 780 acres of parkland, Scotney Castle is a favourite among dog walkers. Dogs on short leads are welcome in the garden, estate, and shop, and can relax with you in the outdoor seating areas of the tea-room. Water bowls, paw-wash stations, and dog-friendly ice creams make it a great day out for four-legged visitors too. (Assistance dogs only in the mansion house and walled garden.)
How to Get to Scotney Castle
Address: Lamberhurst, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 8JN
Phone: 01892 893820
Email: scotneycastle@nationaltrust.org.uk
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/scotney-castle
By Car:
Signposted from the A21 at Lamberhurst. Pre-book parking via the National Trust app or website.
Sat Nav: TN3 8JN / TN3 8JD
By Train:
Nearest station – Wadhurst, approx. 5.5 miles.
By Bus:
256 Autocar service runs from Tunbridge Wells to Wadhurst via Lamberhurst (Mon–Fri).
Cycling:
National Cycle Network Route 18 runs within 3 miles of the estate.
Highlights at a Glance
Ruined Medieval Castle – moated and magical, at the heart of the Picturesque garden
Victorian Mansion – filled with family history and National Trust treasures
Garden Trails – winding paths, wild glades, and seasonal colour
Estate Walks – explore 780 acres of parkland and woodland
Bookshop & Plant Centre – browse gifts and pre-loved books
Family Adventures – trails, play spaces, and buggy-friendly paths
Dog-Friendly – explore the estate with your canine companion
Why Visit Scotney Castle?
Few places in Kent capture the romance of English heritage quite like Scotney Castle. From its storybook ruins and elegant gardens to its vibrant wildlife and family-friendly atmosphere, it offers the perfect mix of history and nature in one unforgettable visit.
Whether you’re seeking a National Trust day out, a historic garden walk, or simply a peaceful escape into the Kent countryside, Scotney Castle promises beauty, discovery, and inspiration in every season.
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