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Bateman's, East Sussex

Bateman's in East Sussex, dating from around 1634, was Rudyard Kipling's home from 1902 to 1936. Kipling and his American wife Carrie bought the house at the height of their success. Kipling's great novel Kim, and his children's books The Jungle Book and Just So Stories had all been written by the time he moved here. In part Bateman's was meant to serve as a refuge from fans. The big solid house, perhaps that of a former iron master, was also an attempt to settle down, following restless years of travel, insecurity and work. Only two years before moving to Bateman's, Kipling's six year old daughter Josephine had died of pneumonia. The writer who moved here was hugely successful but very fragile, and he hoped to find "a real house in which to settle down for keeps" as he says in his autobiography.

In 1907 Kipling won the Nobel Prize for Literature. Out of his £7,700 prize money he redesigned Bateman's garden, to give its appearance as seen today. Once again his aim was to create a refuge of peace and tranquility. But sitting in the garden it is poignant to think of continuing insecurity in Kipling's world. Even in happier periods at Bateman's, he was worrying about what the future might hold for Britain. He had hated the 1897 jubilee celebrating Queen Victoria's sixty years on the throne. To Kipling Britain's self congratulation seemed to ignore the fact that all hopes and securities rest on thin ice. Sadly Kipling's fears were not unfounded. Europe was soon to be convulsed by World War One. His son John was killed in 1915 at the Battle of Loos.

 

Opening Times: The house is open from 13th March to 31st October, 11am - 5pm, Saturday to Wednesday.

The garden, tea room and shop remain open after the house has closed from 1st November to 22nd December 2010, 11am - 4pm Saturday to Wednesday. There is no charge for entry into the garden during November and December. Open Good Friday 11am - 5pm.

Address: Bateman's, Bateman's Lane, Burwash, Etchingham, East Sussex TN19 7DS

Directions: Bateman's is on the A265 half a mile south of Burwash. Click here for an interactive road and satellite map centred on Bateman's.

Access: there is a step to the entrance of the house, and many steps inside, so access is difficult. There is a virtual tour available. There are steps to the entrance of the shop and restaurant. Adapted toilet facilities are available at reception. Two wheelchairs are available to hire, but advanced booking essential.

Contact:

telephone: 01435 882302

E-mail: batemans@nationaltrust.org.uk