Historic Houses & Twentieth Century Art in Kent & Sussex

In a wooded valley in the Surrey Hills, beautifully landscaped gardens are the backdrop for a wonderful and ever-changing display of over 200 sculptures by international artists. Created by Hannah & Anthony Peschar, a celebrated gardener, the sculptures are made using contemporary metals, wire, glass, ceramics and plastics as well as more traditional stone, wood and bronze. All surrounded by beautiful plants, ponds and mature trees – lovely!

Tucked away in a little village overlooking the South Downs, Berwick Church’s interior features stunning works of art and murals painted by Duncan Grant, Vanessa Bell and Quentin Bell during WWII. Commissioned by Bishop Bell of Chichester as an expression of hope, the Bloomsbury set artists have created a truly remarkable sight in this grade I listed building.

A tiny church in the Kentish countryside, All Saints’ Church is the setting for the magnificent 12 stained-glass windows by the artist Marc Chagall, born in Belarus.

Dating back to the 14^th century, the stately house and gardens are situated in beautiful parkland in the pretty Kentish village of Penshurst. The awe-inspiring Baron’s Hall and opulent state rooms are the focal point for all visitors. Originally built for the Lord Mayor of London, it has been the ancestral home of the Sidney family since 1552. Family portraits, antique furniture and skilfully crafted tapestries are just some of the treasures on display. Starting in the private Inner Courtyard at Penshurst Place, a specialised private tour of the magnificent works of art on display and the politics of the day gives an in-depth perspective.

Explore the art and lives of artists Vanessa Bell, Duncan Grant and their contemporaries at Charleston House, a living work of art in the 20^th century. It became a place of inspiration and escape for many artists, writers and intellectuals from the famed Bloomsbury set. As well as its well-known owners, friends and family contributed to painting the house interior with beautiful frescoes, hand stencilled drawings and paintings.

Explore Royal Tunbridge Wells and the historic Pantiles home of the pretty Georgian colonnaded walkway and famous Chalybeate Spring, which was discovered in 1606. Browse the range of shops and cafes and walk past the King Charles the Martyr Church and up through the old high street with its stylish designer shops.

Tucked away in the Sussex countryside, Farleys House was the home of the surrealists, famous WWII photographer, Lee Miller and surrealist painter, photographer and biographer, Roland Penrose. The couple spent 35 years filling their home with a collection of contemporary art treasures which became a meeting place for some of the key personalities and artists in the 20^th century. Enjoy a guided tour of the house to discover more of their extraordinary lives and take time to explore the spacious galleries and sculpture garden.