WALK: Bateman’s, East Sussex
Kipling country
Explore novelist Rudyard Kipling’s former home in the East Sussex hills. There is something for everyone at this National Trust property, says Megan Shersby
Tucked away among the hills of the Sussex Weald countryside lies the home of the English novelist, poet and journalist Rudyard Kipling.
Unlike some National Trust houses, Bateman’s remains open during winter, albeit with restricted hours. But the grounds are my favourite part of this property. In spring and summer, dragonflies and newts abound in the large pond, while bumblebees and butterflies enjoy the flowers on offer.
In winter, it’s quieter. Yew hedge planting divides the garden into sections, where goldcrests flit along edges in search of insects to feast upon. Follow a path to the recently restored Mill Pond, to spy small birds and thrushes foraging in the vegetation. January visitors may see snowdrops emerging, or, in winter sun, butterflies waking early from hibernation.
SITE DETAILS
Parking, loos, café. Dogs welcome. Adult £12, members free. nationaltrust.org.uk/batemans
Megan Shersby is a naturalist and works for BBC Wildlife Magazine.