Celebrating 50 Years of Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve

The Sassoon Era: High Society and Glamour

In 1914, the estate was acquired by Sir Philip Sassoon, MP for Hythe and one of the most influential social figures of early 20th-century Britain. Known as the greatest entertainer (and most eligible bachelor) of his generation, Sassoon transformed Port Lympne into a glittering hub of politics, culture and society.

Guests included an extraordinary roll call of history’s most recognisable names: Winston Churchill, David Lloyd George, Charlie Chaplin, T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia), Noel Coward, Lord Louis Mountbatten, Edward VII, George V, and later Edward, Prince of Wales (Edward VIII) and Wallis Simpson.

Despite its splendour, the mansion was used for only around six weeks each year, primarily during the summer when Sassoon could showcase the gardens at their finest.

Architectural Enhancements and the Trojan Staircase

During the 1920s, Sassoon commissioned architect Philip Tilden to expand and elevate the estate. One of the most dramatic additions was the Trojan Staircase; 125 imposing stone steps descending from the mansion to the gardens below, complete with ram’s head motifs and classical detailing that echo ancient Roman grandeur.

The gardens themselves were carefully curated, blending formal Italianate design with wide terraces that framed uninterrupted views across the marsh and coastline.

Murals, Art and Restoration

Many of the mansion’s original features remain strikingly visible today, including the marble columns and grand stone staircase. Sassoon also commissioned two mural rooms - one by Rex Whistler and another by José María Sert. During World War II, the Sert Room was boarded up while troops were housed at the mansion, inadvertently saving it from destruction.

Although the murals later suffered damp damage, extensive restoration was carried out with the involvement of the Tate Gallery, preserving these artistic treasures for future generations.

When John Aspinall purchased Port Lympne in 1973, he envisioned the mansion as a true “Mansion of Murals.” In 1985, he commissioned Spencer Roberts to repaint the Sert Room, now featuring 220 species of animals - many drawn from observation at Port Lympne and Howletts. Later, explorer and self-taught artist Martin Jordan was commissioned to create a millennium mural depicting Indian tigers, John Aspinall’s favourite animal, complete with a hidden portrait of Aspinall himself overlooking the scene.

Wartime History and a Changing Role

Sir Philip Sassoon played a pivotal role during the First World War, serving as private secretary to Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig and later as Parliamentary Private Secretary to David Lloyd George. After Sassoon’s death in 1939, the mansion fell largely silent.

During World War II, Port Lympne briefly housed RAF Free Czech troops in 1942. While the estate survived the war, decorative elements suffered, and by the time John Aspinall acquired the property in 1973, major restoration was required.

With support from English Heritage, the Grade II*-listed mansion was eventually transformed into a boutique hotel, reopening in 2014 and allowing guests to once again experience its historic splendour.

Royal Connections Through the Years

Port Lympne has welcomed royalty for over a century. During the Sassoon era, royal guests included Edward, Prince of Wales, and the Duke of York (later King George VI).

In modern times, the reserve’s conservation mission has drawn a new generation of royal visitors. In 2012, Prince William visited Port Lympne as patron of the Tusk Trust, meeting keepers and feeding black rhino Zawadi ahead of the species’ return to Africa.

These achievements stand as a testament to the dedication, expertise and compassion of the animal care teams and their pioneering approach to animal husbandry, breeding and conservation.

Landmark Animals and Conservation Milestones

Over the decades, Port Lympne has been home to animals whose stories have shaped conservation history:

From Day Visits to Iconic Safari Stays

In 2007, Port Lympne revolutionised wildlife tourism in the UK by introducing overnight stays. The first guests stayed at Livingstone Lodge (now Giraffe Lodge), enjoying private safaris, African-inspired dining and unparalleled views across the reserve.

This innovation paved the way for today’s portfolio of 14 unique accommodation experiences, including the opening of the Mansion hotel in 2014, Pinewood Pods, glamping retreats and the UK’s original Lion Lodges.

Port Lympne Illuminated

Innovation never stops at Port Lympne Reserve - in 2025, we launched our first-ever light trail, Port Lympne Illuminated. Featuring spectacular light sculptures, holograms and a mesmerising fountain display, the event proved an instant success and will return in 2026 with even more surprises to delight our guests.