House & Family History: When Sir Thomas Colyer-Fergusson died in 1951, his grandson auctioned the contents of Ightham Mote and sold the house to a group of local citizens who hoped to save and preserve it; unfortunately, the cost was beyond them and Ightham was again sold in 1953. This time it was purchased by Charles Henry Robinson of Portland, Maine. Mr. Robinson fell in love with Ightham Mote when he saw a picture of it in an art dealer's shop in London; years later he was able to acquire the house and restore and furnish it with 17th century English furniture. Mr. Robinson bequeathed Ightham Mote to the National Trust on his death in 1985.

Comments: Ightham Mote is considered one of the loveliest and most interesting surviving Tudor manor houses in Britain.

Garden & Outbuildings: The site is moated.

Chapel & Church: The Tudor chapel, which contains 16th century German stained glass, is extant.

Country Life: I, 406, 1897. XXI, 414, 1907.

House Listed: Grade I

Park Listed: Not Listed

Past Seat / Home of: Cawne family, 1360-99. Haut family, 1444-1521. Clement family, 1521-44. Allen family, 1544-91. Selby family, 1591-1889. Sir Thomas Colyer-Fergusson; 19th century; Fergusson family here until 1951. Charles Henry Robinson, 20th century.

Current Ownership Type: The National Trust

Primary Current Ownership Use: Visitor Attraction

House Open to Public: Yes

Phone: 01732-810-378

Fax: 01732-811-029

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Historic Houses Member: No