Hidden in the heart of the Kent countryside, Penshurst Place is one of England's most extraordinary medieval estates — carrying the fingerprints of Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, and six centuries of British history.
Originally built in 1341 for Sir John de Pulteney, Lord Mayor of London, Penshurst Place fell into Henry VIII's hands in 1521 following the execution of the 3rd Duke of Buckingham for treason. Henry used it as a royal hunting lodge and is believed to have stayed here while courting Anne Boleyn, whose family seat at Hever Castle was just a few miles away. Her father, Thomas Boleyn, was even appointed Keeper of Penshurst Place during this period.
After Henry, Penshurst was granted to Anne of Cleves as part of her divorce settlement — one of the great Tudor footnotes. In 1552, Edward VI gifted the estate to Sir William Sidney, and the Sidney family have called it home ever since, making it one of the oldest continuously family-owned estates in England.
Today, Penshurst Place is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of medieval architecture in Britain. Its Baron's Hall — built in 1341 — has been described as "the mightiest hall owned by a commoner in England." Eleven acres of walled gardens (among the oldest in private ownership), magnificent State Rooms, tapestries, arms and armour, and a history stretching from medieval England through the Tudor dynasty and beyond make this an unmissable stop for anyone passionate about british history and english heritage.
In this video, Tudor Expert Dr Lauren Mackay brings Penshurst Place to life — revealing the royal dramas, political intrigue, and architectural wonders that make this one of Kent's greatest hidden gems.
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