St John's Jerusalem

St John's Jerusalem in the Darent Valley is one of England's best-preserved preceptories of the Knights Hospitaller, a medieval order that cared for sick and poor pilgrims. The flint-faced chapel dates from the early 13th century, and in 1234 Henry III ordered five oak trees from Tonbridge Forest for its roof. After the Dissolution the chapel and tower grew into a country house, altered by Abraham Hill and later by the Kent historian Edward Hasted; Sir Stephen and Lady Bridget Tallents gave the estate to the National Trust in 1943. The house is a private residence managed by a tenant, so visitors see only the chapel and garden, on selected dates. The garden lies on an island bounded by the River Darent and an ancient moat, with fruit trees and an avenue of horse chestnuts. Dogs are welcome in the garden on short leads but not in the chapel. Reviewers describe a small, peaceful spot. Tips from visitors: there is no tearoom, so bring a picnic, and the chapel is reached by steep steps. The Trust takes cash only.