Research Enquiries
As we are a small team, Penshurst Place does not have a curator or an archivist, we are therefore unable to answer research enquiries directly. We have however found that most enquiries normally relate to the family history, the history of the House, or research into a particular subject or topic. Please see below the resources available in this instance.
Penshurst Place Resources
The Penshurst Place guidebook contains information on the family, history of the House and also the heraldic symbols in use. This is available to order by post from our Estate Office.
Where possible, why not visit us and ask one of our knowledgeable House Stewards for further information? There are also many books about Penshurst Place and the Sidney family, some stocked by our Gift Shop.
Academic Resources
Much academic work has also been done on Penshurst Place and the Sidney family, and about some of the previous workers and staff on the Estate, which may be available online or to order through your local library, and for registered students through various University Libraries and the British Library.
A suggested reading list can be downloaded below.
The De L’Isle Archives
The De L'Isle archives are stored at the Kent History and Library Centre in Maidstone. Formal academic research requests to access these should be put in writing, addressed to Viscount De L'Isle c/o Maryann Webster, and either sent via email – maryannwebster@penshurstplace.com or sent via post to –
Maryann Webster
Penshurst Place Estate Office
Penshurst
Kent
TN11 8DH
It is necessary to itemize specific Manuscript Catalogue numbers that you wish to view. The online catalogue can be accessed at http://www.kentarchives.org.uk/.
The De L’Isle manuscripts held at Kent History and Library Centre comprise:
U1475 (Sidney papers formerly deposited with the Historical Manuscripts Commission)
U1500 (Sidney papers formerly at Penshurst Place)
U1886 (papers concerning the Foulis family of Ingleby Greenhow in North Yorkshire)
Please be aware replies to requests take up to 6 weeks.