Discover Chartwell | A Visitor's Introduction to Chartwell

Why is Chartwell Worth a Visit?

Chartwell is a must-visit for anyone interested in British history, especially those curious about the personal life and legacy of Winston Churchill. The property provides a unique, intimate perspective on the man behind the public figure. Visitors can explore his personal study, where many of his famous speeches were composed, and see how his surroundings inspired his work. Beyond its historical significance, Chartwell is a stunning example of English country living, with beautiful views of the Weald of Kent, carefully tended gardens, and walking trails that make it a peaceful and inspiring destination for all.

Chartwell Highlights

1. The House

The house at Chartwell, a Victorian red-brick structure, was Churchill’s family home from 1922 until his death in 1965. Inside, it remains largely as it was during his lifetime, giving visitors a glimpse into the private life of the wartime leader. The rooms are filled with personal mementos, gifts from world leaders, family photographs, and furniture that speak to Churchill's domestic life. Key areas of the house include:

• Churchill’s Study: Perhaps the most historically significant room, this is where Churchill worked on many of his important writings. The study remains almost untouched, with his books, manuscripts, and even his typewriter on display.
• The Drawing Room: A bright, comfortable space with large windows overlooking the gardens, filled with personal memorabilia and art.
• The Dining Room: This room hosted many important political and personal guests, including international figures. It remains set as it would have been during Churchill’s time, offering a sense of the grandeur of his social life.
• Churchill’s Paintings: An avid amateur artist, Churchill painted more than 500 works in his lifetime. Many of his paintings, which often depict the landscapes and surroundings of Chartwell, are on display throughout the house and in a dedicated studio.

2. The Gardens

Churchill took a hands-on approach to the gardens at Chartwell, shaping them according to his vision of natural beauty. The gardens cover approximately 80 acres and provide a mix of formal gardens, woodlands, and lakes.

• The Rose Garden: One of the most tranquil areas of the estate, the rose garden was created by Clementine Churchill, Winston’s wife, and remains a place of reflection and beauty.
• The Kitchen Garden: Another favorite area of Churchill, this space is still used to grow fruits and vegetables, many of which are served in the on-site café.
• The Golden Rose Walk: Built to commemorate Churchill’s 90th birthday, this walk offers splendid views over the surrounding countryside.
• The Ponds and Lakes: Churchill personally dug some of the ponds on the property and built the surrounding walls, demonstrating his love of physical labor and creation.

3. The Studio

One of the most unique aspects of Chartwell is Churchill’s painting studio, which has been preserved as it was during his life. This light-filled space contains many of his unfinished works, personal art supplies, and some of the landscapes that inspired him. Visitors get a rare look into his creative side, which Churchill used as a therapeutic outlet during the more stressful periods of his life.

4. The Museum Room

Chartwell also features a dedicated museum room that chronicles Churchill’s extraordinary life. The exhibition includes original documents, personal letters, and artifacts that illustrate his public and private roles. Items on display often rotate, giving return visitors new things to see, such as medals, photographs, and pieces of Churchill's extensive literary output.

5. Churchill’s Pets and Animals

For animal lovers, Chartwell holds special appeal as the Churchills kept a variety of animals on the estate. Visitors can learn about Churchill’s beloved poodle, Rufus, and even see the black swans that still swim on the property’s lakes, descendants of the swans that Churchill introduced to the estate. The brick walls enclosing some parts of the garden were built with gaps at the base to allow the swans to walk through.

6. Woodland Walks and Views

The landscape around Chartwell offers several walking trails, including woodland paths that wind through the estate. These walks provide scenic views across the Weald of Kent, and visitors can explore Churchill’s extensive tree plantations. Nature lovers can enjoy peaceful strolls, and there's a natural play area for children, making it a great place for families.

7. Winston Churchill’s Legacy Room

This room delves into Churchill's legacy, focusing on his impact as a statesman, war leader, and Nobel laureate in literature. It includes his Nobel Prize in Literature, which he won in 1953, and explores his significant contributions to politics, diplomacy, and culture on a global scale.

Practical Information for Visitors

Facilities

• Café: The café offers a selection of hot meals, sandwiches, and cakes, often using produce from Chartwell’s own kitchen garden. The seating area overlooks the estate, providing pleasant views while dining.
• Shop: Visitors can purchase souvenirs, books on Churchill, locally sourced products, and gifts.
• Car Park: A large car park is available, though it can fill up quickly during peak season, so early arrival is recommended.
• Picnic Areas: For those who prefer to bring their own food, there are designated picnic spots around the grounds.
• Accessible Facilities: Chartwell provides accessibility accommodations, including parking for disabled visitors and ramped access to some parts of the house and gardens. However, some areas, particularly the upper floors of the house and certain garden paths, may present challenges for wheelchair users.
• Toilets: Restroom facilities, including accessible toilets and baby-changing areas, are available near the entrance and café.

Opening Times

Chartwell is typically open from March through November, though winter months may see the house closed, with the gardens and studio remaining open. Times can vary, so checking the National Trust website before visiting is recommended.

Tickets and Pricing

As a National Trust property, entry is free for members. Non-members will need to purchase a ticket, with different rates for adults, children, and families. Pre-booking is advised during busy times, especially on weekends and holidays.

Nearby Attractions

• Westerham Village: Just a short drive from Chartwell, Westerham is a charming village with historical links to Churchill and General James Wolfe. Visitors can explore local shops, restaurants, and the village green with its statues of Churchill and Wolfe.
• Hever Castle: Located around 20 minutes from Chartwell, Hever Castle was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII. It features stunning gardens, a lake, and Tudor history.
• Knole Park: A 15th-century deer park and stately home near Sevenoaks, Knole is another National Trust property offering impressive architecture and landscaped gardens.
• Emmetts Garden: Just a few miles away from Chartwell, this hillside garden, also managed by the National Trust, features rare and exotic plants, beautiful in all seasons.

Practical Advice for Visitors

• Weather Considerations: The gardens are a major highlight of Chartwell, so it is best visited in pleasant weather. However, the house itself is worth exploring even on a rainy day. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes if you plan to walk the trails, especially after wet weather, as they can become muddy.
• Best Times to Visit: Weekdays outside of school holidays are often quieter, making it easier to explore the house and gardens at a leisurely pace. Spring and summer are ideal for garden lovers, while autumn brings beautiful colors to the surrounding woodlands.
• Guided Tours: Audio guides and volunteer-led tours are available, providing deeper insight into the life of Winston Churchill and the history of Chartwell.
• Photography: Photography is permitted in the gardens and exteriors, but indoor photography is restricted in many parts of the house. Be mindful of the rules to preserve the historic interiors.