£30.50 NT members 45.50 Non NT members (Non JG member)
Overview
The romantic ruined medieval castle sits on its own moated island and forms the centrepiece of Edward Hussey III’s Picturesque garden. Open for the first time since 2019 the old castle is playing host to ‘The Red List’ exhibition. Created by artist, Jayne Ivimey, the simple bisque-fired clay depictions of the 70 birds currently on the endangered species list are hauntingly beautiful and thought provoking. With one of the largest and most eclectic collections in the National Trust, The Mansion House, built in the mid-19th century by Edward Hussey III, combines the formality of Victorian design with the relaxed sociability of family life. This year’s exhibition in the mansion, ‘Castle of Curiosities’ draws on some of the weird and wonderful artefacts collected by the Hussey family over the years. Scotney has one of the best examples of a picturesque-designed garden in the United Kingdom. With expansive views across the wider estate, woodland glade, quarry garden, moat, walled garden, hidden walkways, heather-thatched icehouse and a Victorian boathouse, the edges between tamed and wild nature are deliberately blurred. Scotney Castle tea-room. Fresh, seasonal, locally sourced food is served in the tea-room, as well as a selection of hot and cold drinks. There’s a range of delicious hot lunches or lighter options including freshly made sandwiches, salads, soups, cakes and cream teas. In season we use as much produce from the walled garden as possible. You can’t get much more local than that.