If you are looking to step back in time and visit a medieval manor house then Ightham Mote, built over 700 years ago might be just the thing. Ightham Mote was built in the 14th century and has changed very little since it’s original design. The house is made up of over 70 rooms built around a central courtyard and sits on its own little island surrounded by a square mote. Three bridges provide access. Impressive features include the great hall, chapel, solars, crypt and a tudor painted ceiling. The property also boasts the only existing Grade 1 listed dog kennel. As you wander around the property taking it all…

Kent in the south east of England is lovingly referred to by many as the garden of England, on account of the lush and abundant greenery especially during spring and summertime. On a recent trip back home I visited Emmetts Garden for the first time since my childhood and saw that few places are as obviously well-cared-for and thriving as Emmetts Garden, a National Trust property in Ide Hill, near Sevenoaks. The property consists of a house and about six acres of botanical gardens and arboretum. The house was built and the gardens established by Frederic Lubbock, the original owner, in 1860. The property was then acquired by Charles Boise…