Audley End House and Gardens

A Grand Jacobean Mansion

Audley End House stands as one of the finest Jacobean mansions in England, built in the early 17th century for the first Earl of Suffolk, Lord Treasurer to James I. Its imposing red-brick façade, symmetrical design, and grand state rooms reflect the wealth and ambition of the Stuart court. Inside, visitors walk through 31 lavishly furnished rooms, from the Great Hall and Long Gallery to intimate drawing rooms and bedchambers, each telling a story of aristocratic life, fashion, and power. The house’s scale and detail make it a masterpiece of early English Renaissance architecture, offering a vivid sense of how the elite lived centuries ago.

Life Above and Below Stairs

The estate gives a rare glimpse into both the grandeur of the family and the hard work of the servants who kept the house running. The Victorian service wing, once the domain of cook Mrs Avis Crocombe, has been carefully restored with period fittings and lifelike soundscapes that bring the kitchen, laundry, and dairy to life. Nearby, the historic stable block houses resident horses and a Victorian groom, adding a living dimension to the estate’s history. This dual perspective—of luxury upstairs and labour downstairs—makes Audley End especially engaging for families and history lovers.

Landscaped Gardens and Parkland

The house is set within a sweeping Capability Brown–inspired landscape, with formal parterres, sweeping lawns, and mature trees framing views across the park. The walled Victorian kitchen garden has been restored as an organic kitchen garden, growing over 120 varieties of apples, 40 types of pears, and dozens of vegetables and herbs. Ornate bridges cross the River Granta, leading through the park, while a small rock garden and pools add intimate corners to explore. In winter, the grounds are famous for their snowdrop displays, and in autumn, the trees blaze with colour.

A Year-Round Estate Experience

Audley End is designed as a full-day destination, with something to enjoy in every season. Spring and summer bring the kitchen garden into full bloom and the parkland alive with birds and insects. Autumn offers rich foliage and harvest displays, while winter highlights the architecture and the delicate snowdrop carpets. The estate also hosts seasonal events, from family activities to historical re-enactments, and includes a children’s play area, café, and shop. Whether you’re drawn to architecture, gardening, social history, or simply a peaceful walk in beautiful surroundings, Audley End offers a layered and memorable experience.