Worthing National Trust Association
Outings Programme for 2017
There are five outings this year, three full day and the other two part day.
For notes and photographs of outings that have already taken place, click on individual titles
Smallhythe Place and Chapel Down Vineyard, Tenterden
Wednesday 12 April
Smallhythe Place in the Weald of Kent was the home of Ellen Terry, the Victorian actress and the cottage contains her theatrical collection. To the rear of this 16th century cottage is a barn which is a theatre and still holds productions there. On arrival there will be a welcome talk and then you will be free to tour the cottage and garden.
Lunch will be taken in the tearoom which is attached to the theatre. The lunch food is a platter with your choice of ham, cheddar cheese or stilton cheese, served with garden salad, crusty bread & butter and chutney and accompanied by tea/coffee.
After lunch we will gather and take a short walk to Chapel Down Vineyard, which is opposite Smallhythe Place. Here you are free to wander amongst the vines and visit the shop. Tea and cake will be served before we leave.
Leith Hill Place, Dorking. Thursday, 27 April
This afternoon trip takes us to the childhood home of the composer Ralph Vaughan Williams. There are glorious views over the South Downs. This National Trust property opened to the public in 2013, having been a school for many years.
There is an audio soundscape tour about Vaughan Williams situated on the first floor (access by a staircase). There is an accessible version on the ground floor.
After the tour of the house, tea and cake will be served.
Saddlescombe Farm. Tuesday, 9 May 2017
We will travel to Devil’s Dyke where you can have lunch in the restaurant, rr take a picnic if you prefer. We will then make the short drive to Saddlescombe Farm in the valley for a guided tour, showing the way life has changed there over the centuries.
Mottisfont Abbey Tuesday, 6 June
Mottisfont Estate contains an 18th century home with a medieval priory. The beautiful River Test runs through the grounds. The world famous rose garden should be at it best at this time. There are two Cafes: the Kitchen Cafe serving hot meals and the Coach House Cafe serving light refreshments.
Claremont
This beautiful garden was originally part of the Claremont Estate, much loved by Queen Victoria. There is an impressive amphitheatre with views over the lake and walks throughout the garden. The cafe serves lunches and teas.
The Homewood
This is an interesting modern movement house with picturesque garden. Access to the show rooms is by stairs and there is no lift. There will be a guided tour lasting 45 minutes.
For the optional visit to The Homewood, the transfer is by minibus
