A Historical Walk from Ightham mote to Knole Guided History Walk
Historic houses and hidden stories: a walk from Ightham Mote to Knole
A quick intro
Step back in time as you explore two of Kent’s most remarkable historic estates on this guided historical walk from Ightham Mote to Knole. Starting from the National Trust car park at Ightham Mote on Sunday 20th September, this circular route follows woodland trails, open countryside, and ancient pathways between two of the county’s most iconic landmarks.
Leaving the beautiful surroundings of Ightham Mote, the route climbs through One Tree Hill before weaving through peaceful woodland and rolling farmland towards the magnificent deer park at Knole. Returning via the picturesque villages of Godden Green and Stone Street, the walk offers a wonderful blend of history, scenery, and quiet countryside.
As with all of Ben’s historical walks, the landscape is brought to life through captivating stories. Along the way you’ll hear tales of an unsolved murder that continues to intrigue historians, riotous locals who challenged authority, and the remarkable tip-off that helped uncover the infamous Gunpowder Plot. This walk combines some of Kent’s finest countryside with fascinating stories from the past.
The details about A historical walk from ightham mote to Knole
the details
Schedule
Date: 20 September 2026
Meet and Start Time: 09:15 meet for 09:30 am start
Walking time: 4.5 hrs (incl. lunch break)
Walk Leader: Ben Crozier
Location
Meeting point: Mote Road, Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0NT (satnav TN15 0NU)
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Car Parking: Charges not included
Route
Terrain:There will be a few undulating hills and one long climb in the middle of the walk.
Distance: Approximately 12 km (7.5 miles)
Walk Type: Circular
Difficulty: Moderate
your kit list
- Suitable footwear (preferably walking boots or sturdy shoes, no flip-flops)
- A waterproof coat (and waterproof trousers, if you have them) for rainy days
- Drinking water and a packed lunch
- Personal medication (Let us know confidentially about any medical conditions)
- Suitable walking attire
important notes
- We welcome friendly dogs on our walks, provided they remain on a lead at all times. The owner is fully responsible for their dog throughout the walk.
- We take photos during our walks for promotional and training purposes. If you prefer not to be included, just let us know on the day.
- Cancellation policy states: Full payment becomes due if a user cancels within 4 days of the activity. Any person cancelling outside of 4 days, will receive a credit available to use within 90 days. Cancel at least 4 days before the event to receive a credit note for a future walk, valid for 90 days.
Learn more aboutthis wonderful walk
Discover the rich history and outstanding landscapes of the Kent Downs on this guided historical walk led by Ben Crozier and the Boots on Adventures team. Covering approximately 12 kilometres (7.5 miles), this circular route links two of Kent’s most celebrated historic estates while exploring ancient woodland, peaceful villages, and centuries of local history.
Starting from the National Trust car park at Ightham Mote, the walk begins beside one of England’s finest surviving medieval manor houses. Although we won’t be entering the National Trust property itself, the surrounding public footpaths provide wonderful views of the estate and its beautiful setting within the Kent countryside.
The route soon climbs through One Tree Hill, a nationally important woodland and nature reserve renowned for its ancient trees, wildlife, and sweeping views across the Weald of Kent. As we continue through woodland paths and open farmland, the scenery constantly changes, creating a varied and rewarding walk.
One of the highlights of the day is reaching the magnificent Knole Park, where ancient trees, wide open parkland, and its famous herd of wild deer create one of the most spectacular landscapes in Kent. Walking through the deer park offers a unique opportunity to experience this historic estate from the network of public footpaths that cross its grounds. While we won’t be entering Knole House itself, the setting alone makes this one of the county’s most memorable locations.
Returning via Godden Green and Stone Street, the route follows quiet country lanes and peaceful footpaths, allowing time to appreciate the rural character that has defined this part of Kent for centuries.
Throughout the walk, Ben shares the remarkable stories connected to the places we visit. Discover the mystery surrounding an unsolved murder, hear about local residents whose actions caused unrest and challenged authority, and learn how information from Kent played a part in exposing the infamous Gunpowder Plot before it could change the course of British history.
The walk takes approximately four and a half hours at a relaxed and sociable pace, allowing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery and hear the stories that make this route so special. The terrain includes gently undulating countryside together with one longer climb, making it suitable for walkers with a reasonable level of fitness.
Please note that we do not enter either National Trust property. Instead, we make full use of the excellent public rights of way that pass through the surrounding estates, providing beautiful views and a wonderful opportunity to appreciate these historic landscapes from the outside.
Blending magnificent historic estates, ancient woodland, breath taking countryside, and compelling local history, this walk offers an unforgettable journey through one of the most beautiful corners of Kent.