Smallhythe Place

Smallhythe Place is a National Trust house and garden on the edge of the Kent countryside, a short drive from Tenterden. The early 16th-century half-timbered house was the home of Victorian actress Ellen Terry, and its rooms hold her theatrical collection, costumes and personal memorabilia, so older children with an interest in history or dressing up can look around at their own pace. Outside there is a cottage garden with a rose garden, orchard, nuttery and ponds, plus a rose arbour and a thatched 17th-century Barn Theatre that stages productions through the year. Families can picnic on the grounds and stop for refreshments in the tea room beside the theatre. Dogs on leads are welcome in the garden. The site is small, so a visit usually takes an hour or two, and the garden paths can be uneven in places.