Royal Archaeological Institute Autumn Meeting 2016

Knole House Saturday, 1st October 2016

Knole in Kent is regarded as one of the greatest of historic English mansions, and its surrounding landscape has been in use for many thousands of years. While not specifically mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 it is likely that it was assessed as part of the large manor based near Otford. Over time, sub-manors developed with settlements, churches and markets including nearby Sevenoaks (in existence by c.1100); the sub-manor of Knole is first mentioned by name in a land grant of 1281 referring to properties belonging to the heirs of Robert de Knolle. In 1446, Knole was acquired by James Fiennes, later Saye and Sele. His execution in 1450 left Knole to his son who sold it to Thomas Bourchier, Archbishop of Canterbury for £266 13s 4d.

An archbishop’s palace, then a royal house and since 1603, a family home, the original 15th-century house was much enlarged and embellished by Thomas Sackville, first Earl of Dorset, the Lord Treasurer and one of Queen ’s favourite cousins.

Today the house, which has been owned and cared for by the National Trust since 1947, is undergoing a major program of restoration, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, and Nathalie Cohen of the Trust and an RAI member, together with Al Oswald will lead the day. Lord Sackville has also given permission for us to have access to the Private Gardens.

The cost is inclusive of coach from Sevenoaks Station to Knole and return. Access to the garden, and a walk around the park and lunch. Following lunch there will be a visit to the Conservation Studio and a visit to the attics. The group will be restricted to 40 places, on a first come first served basis.

10.15 Arrive at Sevenoaks Station 10.30 Arrive at Knole – bags and coats can be left in the Hayloft room 11.00 - 12.00 Visit to Garden discussion of ‘Knole in Flux’ repair programme, and research on the Garden 12.00 - 12.45 Walk in the Park to Echo Mount to study the landscape 12.45 - 13.45 Lunch in the Hayloft 14.00 - 16.00 Visit to Conservation Studio and Attics (will need to split into two smaller groups) 16.00 Depart for Sevenoaks Station

Booking deadline: 5th September Enquiries: [email protected] or 0116 2419595

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Number of places ………………. at £74.00 per person for the 2016 Autumn Meeting on Saturday, 1st October. Cheque payable to: ‘Royal Archaeological Institute’ and please include a stamp with your payment.

The booking form and payment should be returned to: Caroline Raison, The Firs, 2 Main Street, Houghton on the Hill, Leics LE7 9GD

Registered Charity Number 226222 www.royalarchinst.org