Art historian Abigail Harrison-Moore recently called Standen one of the most charming examples of Arts and Crafts workmanship in the UK.
While I’m no expert on such matters, I love Standen House because it’s different and there’s always some new to discover with each visit. The National Trust also put on events at the house, such as a 1970s theme to celebrate 50 years of looking after the property since they acquired it in 1972.
Seeing all those familiar games, LPs and gadgets from my childhood made me want to pull on some baggy trousers and platform shoes.
James and Margaret Beale built the house in 1891, using the architect Philip Webb to lead the project. Work began at the end of the year and finished in 1894, when the Beales moved in.
In line with the practices of the Arts and Crafts movement, the house was constructed using local materials and traditional methods. It gave the Beales a comfortable country house, which is clear from the moment you enter. The homely feel, and original décor and furnishings, draw you in, promising something different and fascinating.
Outside, you can enjoy the gardens at any time of the year. At its heart is Goose Green, dominated by three large plane trees, and surrounded by a kitchen garden, old farm buildings, and a medieval farmhouse.
Being built on a sloping site, you can explore the gardens that overlook the house as you ascend towards the woodland at the top. During the Great Storm of 1987, many trees fell, but work to repopulate the area is bringing it back to its former state.
Best of all are the views across the Medway Valley and Weir Wood Reservoir towards the Ashdown Forest.
Two woodland walks, on either side of the estate, take you into a tranquil environment, where you can enjoy the birds and insects as you walk alongside a stream. While Ash Dieback has closed off some areas, there’s still plenty to savour in any season.
The orchard harks back to the time of the Beales. The many old varieties of apples push through long grass and wildflowers that attract bees and other insects.
The nearby kitchen garden once covered nearly three acres. Though it fell out of fashion for a while, it’s now back in full production with a range of fruits and vegetables to interest keen gardeners.
Standen House offers something for everyone, including the dogs you can walk around the estate.
Though modest, it’s a striking house that manages to feel like a home, not a showcase, offering visitors a window into the Arts and Crafts movement and a more relaxed way of life.
