chartwell It was the main residence of Sir Winston Churchill and his wife Clementine who bought it in 1924 for their rest stays. It is located two kilometers south of Westerham, in the Kent County. When Sir Winston died in 1965, his wife decided to award it to the National Trust immediately.
Today converted into a historical museum, his furniture, photos, books and personal memories are exhibited that evoke the professional and powerful interests of this great statesman, writer, painter and family man.
The hillside gardens reflect Churchill's love of scenery and nature. They include the lakes he created, Mrs. Churchill's Rose Garden, the Orchard and Marycot, and a theater created especially for Churchill's youngest daughter.
The site had been built on at least since the 16th century, when the estate had been called "Well Street" by Henry VIII which was reputed to have been the home during his courtship with Anne Boleyn at nearby Hever Castle. The original house was considerably enlarged and modified during the 19th century.
The highest point on the estate is approximately 650 meters above sea level, and the house has a spectacular view across the Weald of Kent. This point of view 'possessed Churchill and was undoubtedly an important factor in persuading him to buy a house of' not great architectural value '.
Churchill employed architect Philip Tilden to modernize and expand the house. Tilden worked between 1922 and 1924, simplifying and modernizing, as well as allocating more light to the house through large casement windows. Tilden's work completely transformed the house.
In 1938, Churchill was pressured to sacrifice Chartwell for sale for financial reasons, and at that time the house had 5 reception rooms, 19 beds and dressing rooms, 8 bathrooms, situated on 80 acres with three farm houses and heating and lighted pool.
During World War II, the house was practically uninhabitable. Its relatively exposed position so close to the German occupation of France meant that it was potentially vulnerable to a German air strike or commando incursion, which it did not happen.
Address:
Mapleton Road, Westerham, TN16 1PS