As the UK's crisp autumn weather encourages long country walks over summer beach trips, a stunning castle in Kent offers a magical alternative for a memorable day out.
A Fairytale Escape Close to London
Located just over an hour's drive from central London, Scotney Castle has been described as "pure autumn magic" by travel content creator Sevi Nabiyeva. With 14,000 followers on TikTok under the handle @travelwithsevi, she regularly shares global travel discoveries and recently highlighted this Kentish gem.
In her captivating reel featuring the property, Sevi wrote: "Just an hour from London and it feels like you've stepped into a fairytale. Scotney Castle in Kent is pure autumn magic: golden leaves, misty reflections in the moat, and that perfect quiet you only get in the countryside."
Historical Beauty and Gardens
This English country house and garden belongs to the National Trust and sits southeast of Lamberhurst in the River Bewl valley. The magnificent gardens hold Site of Special Scientific Interest status and welcome visitors throughout the year.
The property's centrepiece is the romantic ruin of Scotney Old Castle, a medieval moated manor house positioned on an island within a small lake. Surrounding slopes feature beautifully wooded gardens containing impressive collections of:
- Rhododendrons
- Azaleas
- Kalmia
- Summer wisteria
- Roses
At the garden's summit stands Scotney New Castle, constructed between 1835 and 1843 to replace the older structure. Designed by architect Anthony Salvin, this represents an early example of Tudor Revival architecture in 19th-century Britain. The house first opened to visitors on June 6, 2007, following the passing of its last resident, Elizabeth Hussey, in 2006.
Visitor Information and Reactions
Social media responses to Sevi's castle footage have been overwhelmingly positive. One enthusiast commented: "I love it here, so good for the soul," while others described the property as "cosy" and expressed their affection for the location.
Visitors should note that entry requires payment unless they hold National Trust membership. Admission fees are structured as follows:
- Adults: £20.90 with Gift Aid or £19.00 without
- Children (5-17 years): £10.50 with Gift Aid or £9.50 without
- Children under 5: Free entry
Family and group discounts are available alongside these standard rates. The castle grounds remain free for National Trust members, while all visitors can check current opening times and detailed ticket information on the National Trust's official Scotney Castle webpage.
