About this property
Dukes Place is an astounding 14th-century manor house resting in West Peckham, Kent, well-suited to families or friends on a scenic getaway. Set within a private plot behind electric gates and gazing out towards the Kent Downs, Dukes Place hosts stone floors underfoot, open beams overhead, and layers of character that reveal themselves room by room. Ample off-road parking makes arrivals easy, then the house takes over, drawing your group through a sequence of grand yet inviting spaces designed for coming together. At the heart of the home sits the Grand Hall, where the vaulted ceiling and flagstone floor set a dramatic scene for shared celebrations, long lunches, and evenings that stretch late beside the fireplace.
Close by, a formal dining room centres around a huge inglenook fireplace with a woodburning stove, lending itself perfectly to slow dinners and special occasions. When you’re ready to drift into a more relaxed rhythm, the sitting room offers another woodburning stove and opens out to one of the gardens and patio, blurring the line between indoor comfort and fresh Kent air. A further snug, also warmed by a stove, provides a wonderfully tucked‑away retreat for films, board games, or a calmer corner of conversation. The kitchen, with its AGA, encourages a satisfying holiday pace - coffee on the table, lingering breakfasts, and the simple pleasure of everyone gathering where the warmth and conversation naturally congregate.
Upstairs, four double bedrooms continue the sense of occasion, with four offering en-suite facilities that make mornings feel effortless when the house is full. Freestanding baths, walk-in showers, and delightfully characterful details, including an en-suite arrangement with a shower and WC cleverly housed within cupboard spaces, reinforce that this is a home shaped by history. Throughout, the charm runs deeper than décor: original features and historic touches, including a Knights Commandery plaque in the Grand Hall, make it feel as though you’re staying inside a living story. Step outside, and the grounds elevate the experience again. The wraparound garden is pristine and beautifully tended, with lawns, patios for outdoor dining, and a setting that feels lifted from a period film.
A swimming pool and tennis court bring a holiday-house sparkle to the historic backdrop, while flower, herb, and vegetable gardens add colour and texture to every scenic stroll. Set on the edge of the picturesque hamlet of West Peckham, famously featured in the final series of The Darling Buds of May (The Larkins), this property enjoys a peaceful position in the heart of the Kent Weald. Despite its tranquil setting, the village boasts a welcoming community-owned pub, The Swan on the Green, just a short stroll away. Ideally located for exploring the surrounding countryside, charming Kent towns and villages, guests can also easily reach central London via direct trains from nearby Tonbridge.
The area is rich in attractions, with the vineyards of Mereworth and Yotes Court situated just across the road. Walkers can join the renowned Greensand Way directly behind Dukes Place, following the historic route across the Weald or up towards the North Downs. Historic houses and gardens, including Knole, Penshurst Place, Ightham Mote, Leeds Castle, Hever Castle, and the celebrated Sissinghurst Castle Garden, are all within easy reach. With its scale, story, and setting, Dukes Place offers an unforgettable stay in the heart of Kent. Note: This property can be booked with ref. 1184725, together sleeping up to 12 guests.
Kings Hill is a lovely countryside village resting between West Malling and Maidstone. The village is known for its contemporary layout, green spaces, and strong community feel, and offers a good selection of local amenities, including independent cafés, restaurants, a pub, a gym, and everyday services. Dining options include casual cafés and family-friendly eateries within the village centre, while you can stock up on essentials at the large supermarket and local convenience stores close by. Within easy reach of the village is the historic market town of West Malling, where you can find further attractions and amenities such as traditional pubs, specialist shops, and a mainline railway station with direct services to London. The surrounding area also provides access to countryside walks and open green spaces, making Kings Hill a practical and appealing base for both commuting and leisure in Kent.
Accommodation
Four bedrooms: 1 x double with en-suite freestanding bath, handheld shower, basin, and WC, 1 x double with en-suite walk-in shower, basin, and WC, 1 x double with its own bathroom including walk-in shower, heated towel rail, basin, and WC, 1 x double with en-suite freestanding bath, shower over, basin, and WC.
Kitchen/diner with TV.
Dining room with woodburning stove.
Sitting room with woodburning stove.
Living/dining room with woodburning stove.
2 x Utility.
Snug with woodburning stove
Central heating.
AGA, oven, hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, kettle, toaster.
TV, WiFi.
Fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Ample off-road parking.
Wraparound garden with lawn, patio, furniture, swimming pool, tennis court, and flower, herb, and vegetable garden.
Sorry, no pets and no smoking.
Note: the owner's own pets do reside in the property from time to time so might not be suitable if guests have any pet allergies.
Shop 3 miles, pub 0.3 miles.
Note: Good housekeeping bond of £700