Penshurst Place has a rich history and heritage dating back 650 years. It serves as an excellent educational resource appealing to a wide range of student ability and interest.

The mediaeval hall is ideal for the study of how people lived in the Middle Ages. With its 60' high arched chestnut roof, it is considered to be the most complete example of 14th century domestic architecture in England. Later additions to the house reveal at least eight different periods of architecture, while the Staterooms are filled with treasures from the 15th - 18th centuries.

Penshurst Place also offers a wealth of information on the Tudors. Prior to the gift of the house by Edward VI to Sir William Sidney in 1552, Penshurst was owned for thirty years by the crown. Henry VIII loved to hunt in the ancient parkland here - it was also convenient for his courtship of Ann Boleyn at nearby Hever Castle.

The Sidney's were important and influential figures in Tudor society who, together with their famous relatives, the Dudley family, played pivotal roles at Court and in government.

A Tudor Trail Resource Pack is available for groups studying this fascinating period of English history. The pack focuses on events of both national and local significance and includes worksheets for student participation. The
Education Room contains a wealth of facts and interest, where students can carry out site work.

Students studying A level English will be able to gain a useful insight into the famous Elizabethan poet, courtier and soldier, Sir Philip Sidney, who was born at Penshurst Place and was influential in many architectural changes made to the house in the later part of the 16th century. Penshurst also has links with the poet Sir Bysshe Shelley, who was a great admirer of the work of his relative Sir Philip Sidney.

The eight different periods of architecture at Penshurst Place offer an interesting resource to students studying building and architecture. The Woodland Trail is useful for cross-curricular activities and the ancient parkland, gardens and village are ideal for Geography field trips.

Living History Presentation for Schools

ARMADA! PENSHURST PLACE IN 1588
10th - 14th March 2008

Now approaching its 12th year, and back again by popular demand with and additional day. This living history presentation is aimed at school children studying the Tudors, or simply as a fun and informative day out for pupils. The presentation focuses on life at different levels of Tudor society giving children a history lesson they can relate to.

A skilled cast of musicians, actors and actresses recreate colourful characters of the period and involve students in the life of this important household as it prepares for the invasion of the Spanish Armada.

Children will step back 400 years in time to meet:

Master Bisgood who will introduce students to 16th century dance and manners.

A Barber Surgeon has been employed to care for the militia.
He talks about his skills and explains the grizzly tools of his trade.

Master Laurent a cartographer in the service of the Sidney family.
He draws maps for English navigators and assesses the strength of the Armada.

The Kitchen Servant is busy preparing food for the militia and talks about 16th century foods and the diet of the soldiers and sailors.

The Lady of the House as she prepares clothes for a wedding - an opportunity for children to try on Elizabethan style costumes.

Places are limited on the ARMADA! So do not delay in booking your school in for next year. The cost per child is only £8.00 for either a morning or afternoon session and they can spend the whole day learning and having fun at Kent's most exciting historic house.

For a booking form please contact us on 01892 870307 or email us

Email enquiries@penshurstplace.com for further information.