The Home of Rudyard Kipling
Bateman’s – East Sussex, England
The house and grounds of Kipling’s former home is now a National Trust property having been bequeathed after the deaths of both Kipling and his wife (Carrie). The house itself is Jacobean and dates back to 1634 with Kipling moving into the house in 1902 and living there with his family for 34 years.
The House
The inside of the house is full of history and the rooms inside are preserved as they would have been in Kipling’s time.
Dark wooden furniture fill the rooms and soft lighting is used to preserve the colours of the furniture and décor. Spring flowers decorate the dining table, adding a splash of colour to the front room and a floral scent that mixes with the musky smell of old books and wood.
The walls in Kipling’s study are lined with brightly bound books, a disorganised desk stands towards the centre of the room, placed so as to make the most of the daylight shining through the window. A portrait of Carrie Kipling hangs over the fireplace, watching over the room where Kipling would have spent most of his time, working on his writings.
The walls are either covered in wooden panelling, painted white or covered in ornate, floral wall art giving each room a unique appearance. The house is full of character with little surprises wherever you look, such as ornately carved wooden headboards, paintings of scenes from the Jungle Book, and a mouse that peeks out of the wall as you head down the staircase.
The Grounds
The grounds and gardens are extensive with more to discover around every corner.
As you enter the property you walk along herb gardens and orchards. Meandering past the café and shop, and around the back of the house you find open grounds and a delightful pond with brightly coloured fish and flowers animating the mirrored surface of the water.
But it is the wild flower garden beyond that that showcases the flowers of spring. Daffodils, Bluebells and Crocuses bloom amongst tall trees, footpaths and the meandering stream. Wooden benched are scattered around the grounds, allowing you to sit and take in the charming floral surroundings.
The Flowers
Throughout the property you will find flowers.
The Magnolia trees are in full bloom, blossoms produce a delicate floral scent, and spring flowers add bright colours to the lush green grass. It is easy to be creatively inspired by the variety of flora around you as you stroll along the many paths, under Magnolia trees and past meadows coloured blue by the many Bluebells.
The Kipling House showcases the life and times of Rudyard Kipling, celebrating his works and accomplishments, and the gardens are any nature lovers dream. This is the perfect destination for literature lovers, history buffs or anyone with a love of flowers.
Additionally, there are plenty of walking opportunities nearby; through fields, over hills and the quaint nearby village.
The site is open all year and has an entry fee.
Helpful Links
Photography prints and more are available on my Society6 page!
Pictures taken on Pentax KS-1 and edited with Fotor
Wandering Soul 