Welcome
We are open, no need to book
We are delighted to welcome you to the house and collections which are open weekly on Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays, 11am to 5pm with last entry at 4.15pm. We look forward to welcoming you to our historic house and the fascinating collections of Japanese, Stuart and Jacobite, Ancient Egyptian, and Buddhist art and artefacts.
The grounds are open every day of the year (except when closed for private functions), providing enchanting woodland walks, a fishing lake and spectacular views across the Kent countryside for all. Please donate £3 or more in the honesty box at the car park.
Please go to our What’s On page to book your places at our popular summer outdoor events throughout the season. From the Literary Festival Fringe events in July, August and September to jazz in all its guises, theatre for families and Shakespeare fans alike, the pick of opera favourites, a Stevie Wonder celebration, and many Japanese cultural events to reflect our wonderful collection.
Please Donate
Your kind donations help us to take care of the house and grounds throughout the year. We have an honesty box in our car park and please click the button below for direct donations. Thank you for your support.
Please see latest updates on our Facebook, Instagram or Twitter pages.
Planning a wedding?
Venue Hire
No matter what size your wedding, formal or relaxed, at Chiddingstone Castle we are here to help tailor a day to suit you.
War fan
Used to keep cool in the summer, as a fashionable accessory, and in traditional dance performances, fans have always played an important part in Japanese culture. This fan, however, was designed to be used in battle. It’s bold design would have made it ideal for signalling during battle. Some war fans were even made to be used as defensive weapons. This impressive war fan was chosen as our Object of the Month for August in honor of our Japan Festival. Visitors will be able to see the rest of the amazing Japanese collection and experience the kinds of martial arts that the samurai would have practiced.
What people say
“Something interesting for everyone”
"This is a lovely place to visit. The house has a great collection of artifacts. The gardens have nice walks, a pretty bridge and an Egyptian grass maze."
Jenny via TripAdvisor
“The most amazing day”
"The staff were so welcoming. My daughter said she'd had the best day ever. Thank you. Will definitely be keeping my eyes open for future events. "
Gemma via Facebook
“Best Egyptian collection outside the British Museum”
"Visited as part of an Arts Society to this fabulous historic house, art collections and gardens."
Member of Reigate Decorative & Fine Arts Society via TripAdvisor
"Blown away"
"We had the most wonderful day and I think it is fair to say the venue absolutely made it...The day really exceeded out expectations and we are both so grateful for everything you did pulling it together."
Elyse via Hitched
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Opening Hours
GROUNDS AND LAKE
Open daily 7am - 6.30pm
CASTLE, COLLECTIONS & TEA ROOM
The Castle and Tea Room are open
Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays
11.00 - 17.00
WEDDINGS, EDUCATION AND BOOKINGS ENQUIRIES
Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm