Otford Palace - Sevenoaks

Discovering Otford Palace: A Heritage Gem in Otford

Nestled in the serene beauty of Otford, Address: Palace Field, Otford, Sevenoaks TN14 5PD, United Kingdom, stands a historical treasure known as Otford Palace. Accessible via the phone at 7968721958 or by visiting their informative website otfordpalace.org, this heritage building is a must-visit for those who appreciate history and architecture.

Key Features:
- Heritage Building: Otford Palace is celebrated for being a blder piece of British history, offering a glimpse into the past through its old materials.
- Family-Friendly: Ideal for kids, the palace provides an engaging and educational experience, making it a great outing for families.
- Limited Parking: Although parking is limited, the palace is conveniently close to the train station, ensuring easy access.

Points of Interest:
- Visitors often comment on the rich history embodied within its walls, with the opportunity to see the original construction materials, giving a tangible connection to the past.
- Despite the limited exhibits today, the experience of stepping into such an ancient structure is profoundly moving.

Opinions and Reviews:
With 16 reviews on Google My Business, the average opinion of Otford Palace hovers around a 4.5/5. Many reviewers have praised the friendly staff who manage the place, welcoming visitors with tours and insights that make the visit memorable. The palace's historical significance and the personal touch from the caretakers are highlighted as standout features.

Recommendations for Visitors:
- Plan Ahead: Given the limited parking, arrive early or consider using public transport.
- Prepare for History: Expect a depth of history that might surprise you, but also recognize that the palace today might not be as grand as in its heyday.
- Connect Online: For more detailed information and to perhaps arrange a special tour, visiting their website is highly recommended.

Final Recommendation:
If you're looking for a place that encapsulates the spirit of England's rich history, Otford Palace is your gateway. With its blend of historical significance and welcoming atmosphere, especially for families, it promises an enriching experience. Don't hesitate to reach out through their website to plan your visit. Discover the story of Otford Palace - it's an adventure waiting to happen.

Remember, the average opinion speaks volumes, and the personal stories shared by visitors add a warmth that numbers cannot convey. Otford Palace awaits with open doors, ready to share its tales with you.

👍 Reviews of Otford Palace

Ishwar N.

5/5

Came across this on hiking tour. Luckily ran into couple of gentlemen’s who run and look after the place. One of them was kind enough to open the palace gates for us to look inside and have a tour of the palace if self.

A lot of history behind this place and you can see the old materials use to build it. Definitely worth a visit. Very limited parking but a short walk away from the train station.

Daniel

4/5

Very interesting history but not loads of the palace to see today

Irina S.

4/5

From Anglo-Saxon times until 1537, Otford Palace was one of a chain of houses for the Archbishops of Canterbury, as Lords of the Manor of Otford.

It was rebuilt around 1515 by Archbishop Warham, the palace rivals the palatial scale of Wolsey's Hampton.

Henry VIII forced Archbishop Cranmer to surrender it in 1537 and after Henry's death the crown lost interest and it then fell into decay.

In 1936 Sevenoaks Rural District Council become the owner.

In 1976 the site becomes the scheduled monument.

It is located in beautiful village with lots of little cafes to sit down and relax after enjoyable walk in the Palace field.

John Y.

4/5

I have visited Otford palace many times over the years, I always find it intriguing the history of the place going back 500 odd years. Imagining king Henry the eighth strolling around here considering who to have beheaded next. When I first came over here as a youngster many years ago we could get into it, and if memory serves me right it did not have a roof on it then.

Hysterical H.

4/5

This little jem hidden away from the rather quant village shows you how as important Otford was in comparison to places like Lambeth palace and Hampton Court palace. There's not much left and that which is is inaccessible, in a ruinous state and seems to have even houses attached to it. It's a hope that one day this could be opened to the public.

Dean P.

5/5

Fantastic historical site

Chris B.

5/5

Beautiful example of historical building. The tower is being renovated at the moment with excellent progress.

M G.

5/5

Lovely little walking area for kids and dogs. Has a few areas when they can splash in a little stream too!