Bateman's

After lunch at Ightham Mote, we set off across country and headed for the home of Rudyard Kipling known as 'Bateman's'. It is situated near Burwash. Although Kipling was born in India, he lived at Bateman's for 34 years until his passing in 1936. Built in 1634 of the local sandstone, this dignified house exuded the calm tranquility Kipling needed to write, and the gardens and surrounding countryside became inspiration for much of his work including ' Puck of Pook's Hill' and 'Rewards and Fairies' . The interior of this beautiful house reflects Kiplings strong association with India and all things Eastern. There are many beautiful oriental rugs and artefacts decorating the house. Most of the rooms - including his book-lined study are much as Kipling left them. The beautiful grounds run down to a small river (the Dudwell) where there is a watermill that can still operate and grind flour. We were also able to see Kipling's Rolls Royce that is on display in the garage