If you live in or around Sevenoaks, you already know how delightful Knole Park is to wander around as a family. Even at the busiest times of year it is easy to find your way to quiet areas with lovely leafy views and not so many people around.
As a photographer living in Sevenoaks, you won’t be surprised to find out it’s one of my favourite places for a photo session. Long tree lined walks, old tree trunks to sit on, grassy areas for children to run around, deer to keep everyone entertained, and of course a cafe with essential supplies if the energy levels need to be topped up. Plus a selection of old walls that make a great prop for portraits, as well as reflecting the light beautifully. You’ll see several photoshoots taken in Knole Park if you look through my Blog, or if you have a keen eye you will spot pictures in the galleries
Are there downsides to using Knole Park for a photo session?
Well, the weather is always the biggest risk, and Knole Park does not have a lot of shelter on offer. With any outdoors photoshoot though, I will always reschedule if the weather isn’t suitable and if there isn’t an indoor alternative.
There’s also a lot of walking around to be done since it’s a large place and many of the best bits are quite spread out. To be honest there aren’t very many benches to sit on either. Maybe not recommended for younger children if you feel they won’t manage it well – exhausted and tired children don’t make for great photos! There are plenty of distractions – deer, trees, running around playing, and the possibility of snacks too, it’s not all bad news.
Of course, if you still have a buggy that would help. If not, you need to think if you want to carry your children on your shoulders for some of the walking.
Overall though, it’s a strong recommendation from me. There are just so many opportunities in Knole Park for a family photoshoot, and if it’s somewhere you walk around as a family already we can easily take in your favourite spots.
Useful information – the grounds of Knole Park are free to visit, although the house itself is owned by the National Trust (read more here). There is a charge for parking at the car park inside Knole Park if you aren’t a National Trust member, but there are places to park around the perimeter of the Park and you can walk in from there.
