Kentwell Hall and Gardens

About this activity

Kentwell Hall is a beautiful Tudor mansion situated in the heart of Suffolk, England. With its rich history and stunning architecture, Kentwell Hall is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The hall dates back to the 16th century and has been owned by several families over the years. It is now open to the public, who can explore its many rooms and beautiful gardens.

The history of Kentwell Hall can be traced back to the early 1500s when it was owned by the Clopton family. However, it wasn't until the mid-16th century that the current house was built. The hall was purchased by the Martineau family in the 16th century and remained in their ownership until the 20th century.

The Martineau family made several changes to the house over the years, adding a grand staircase and several additional wings to the original structure. The hall was used as a convalescent home for soldiers during World War I, and during World War II, it was used as a base for the Home Guard.

Today, Kentwell Hall is a popular tourist destination, with visitors from all over the world coming to see its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. The hall is open to the public during the summer months, with guided tours available throughout the day. Visitors can explore the many rooms of the house, including the grand hall, drawing room, and dining room, which are all decorated in a style that reflects the history of the house.

One of the highlights of a visit to Kentwell Hall is the chance to see the living history events that take place throughout the year. These events give visitors the opportunity to experience life in Tudor England, with actors dressed in period costume and engaging in activities such as archery, cooking, and dancing.

The gardens at Kentwell Hall are another highlight of any visit. The grounds cover over 25 acres and include formal gardens, a walled garden, and a wildflower meadow. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, admiring the many different plants and flowers that are on display.

One of the most popular events that takes place at Kentwell Hall each year is the annual Scaresville Halloween event. This spooky event takes place throughout the month of October and sees the grounds of the hall transformed into a haunted village, complete with ghostly apparitions and terrifying creatures.