My current commute takes me through the heart of Kent. This is Penshurst Place - caught this morning emerging from the mist, I hope I have caught the atmosphere well enough.
Built in the 14th century (and much of the original still survives) the estate became closely associated with the Tudor monarchs and was eventually taken into ownership by King Henry VIII (after he had had its owner tried for treason and beheaded). Henry's son, Edward VI, gifted the estate to his tutor and household steward, Sir William Sidney, and it has remained in the ownership of the Sidney family to this day. The close relationship with the Crown continued after Henry VIII; Queen Elizabeth I visited frequently and King Charles I's children stayed here for some while after his execution.
A beautiful misty scene. I've never been to Kent (other than passing through on the Eurostar) so I'm looking forward to seeing more of this corner of England. Fav!
An impressive building and interesting history. I suppose if you are a king and you want to acquire a property it makes sense to have the owner beheaded to acquire .the house.
Ian