The Old Mill

Described as Kent’s best example of a Motte-and-Bailey gatehouse, Tonbridge Castle’s origins date back to the Norman invasion of 1066. William the Conqueror granted his relative, Richard Fitzgilbert (later de Clare), lands in Kent and with it the responsibility of guarding the River Medway crossing at Tonbridge. However, the castle has a stormy history which includes a violent siege following the de Clare’s rebellion against King William II (Rufus), disputes with the Archbishops of Canterbury, and the loss of the castle to both King John and Henry III.

The manor is reputed to be the finest eighteenth Century sandstone manor house in Sussex. It is also one of the few tourist attractions in the area to be open all year round. The manor has had a series of distinguished owners throughout the years, each leaving their own individual mark on the property, helping to create its amazing blend of eastern and western cultures. Most recently L Ron Hubbard, acclaimed author and founder of Scientology, purchased the manor as a private family residence. It was within the manor that he conducted many of his experiments on the mind.

Kew’s country garden is open all year, with free entry for children under 17. Enjoy 180 acres of splendid gardens, woodlands and water features, with year-round botanical interest. Every season brings a new experience. Visit the heart of the £80m Millennium Seed Bank Project, our interactive exhibition. At our visitor centre, you’ll also find Seed Café, plant and gift shops.

Other thing to do in the area:

• There is a series of Walks in the area on the WalkScene website
• The Ashdown Forest is a beautiful part of the country, and Gareth Price's Ashdown-Eyes website contains many fine photographs of the area.
• The South East England Tourist Board web site covers all attractions in the area.
• GETALIFEGUIDE.co.uk includes Theme Parks, Zoos, Tourist Attractions, Flying Lessons, Castles, Steam Railways, Farm Parks and loads more, for a fun family day out.
• The East Grinstead Tourist Guide provides details of other attractions in the area.
• Mid Sussex District Council also have details of local places of interest.
• SomewhereToGo has details of Sussex Tourist attractions.

There is also a weekly Farmers Market held on a Thursday in East Grinstead High Street