Chartwell
 

I read that Chartwell operates on a timed ticket basis. Do you have to get there in the morning for a chance at a ticket? What if you arrive in the afternoon? Would you be turned away during peak season because the tickets were all issued already?

I forgot if I asked this already, but do you need a half day for Chartwell or would a couple of hours be enough?

I was wondering if I could combine Chartwell with Hever and Down House on the same day?

I've been twice - and my guess it mainly depends on the day of week and time of year. Once I arrived and the first open time was 90 minutes later. I spent the time exploring the gardens and having tea.

The other time I got there just at opening time (actually a bit before opening) and got the first group of the day.

But neither was on a warm summer weekend when I'd think they would much more likely sell out.

As Janisj says, it's the house which you need a timed ticket for, so you can fit the gardens and Churchill's studio in around that. I always allow at least half a day for any attractions, especially as National Trust places (almost) always have good cafes attached to while away half an hour with tea and cakes. But a couple of hours is long enough for a quick in and out, and you can certainly combine it with a visit somewhere else.

It makes a nice day with Ightham Mote.

I love Ightham Mote - possibly my favourite National Trust property but so often overlooked. It's especially interesting if you also watch the Time Team restoration of it (on YouTube).

Okay--so I guess it is wise to get there early enough to be able to get into to see the house and not wait until the afternoon for that one.

Ightham Mote is also on our "must see" list. The problem is that there are too many things on the must see list and not enough time to see them all.

Has anyone been to Down House? It sounds like it too would be very interesting but how do I fit it all?

I've never been to Down House, despite spending the first 18 years of my life living within 5 miles, and frequenting the George and Dragon regularly (now Nigel Farage's local, apparently). Not a school trip or a family Sunday outing, and I'm pretty sure we must have been dragged round every other historic site in Kent. Not sure if that says something about it's general appeal?