Ingatestone Hall: A Tudor Jewel in Essex Countryside
Explore the intimate grandeur and Tudor heritage of Ingatestone Hall, set within serene gardens in the heart of Essex countryside.
Ingatestone Hall is a stunning 16th-century Tudor manor house located in the Essex countryside, just a mile from the village of Ingatestone. Owned by the Petre family for over 450 years, the hall retains much of its original Tudor architecture, including mullioned windows, crow-step gables, and oak-panelled rooms. Surrounded by ten acres of beautifully maintained gardens, the hall offers visitors a rich historical experience with guided tours, elegant tea rooms, and tranquil walks through its walled gardens and woodland paths.
A brief summary to Ingatestone Hall
- Hall Ln, Ingatestone, CM4 9NR, GB
- +441277353010
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Photography is not allowed inside the house to protect its delicate interiors; enjoy the history with your eyes.
- Visit during summer months when the hall is open for public tours, typically on Wednesdays and Sundays.
- Take time to explore the extensive gardens, including themed walks like the Lime Walk and Nut Walk.
- The elegant Summer Parlour tea room offers homemade cakes and refreshments, perfect for a relaxing break.
- Plan ahead if attending a private event or wedding, as the hall is also available for exclusive hire.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
From London Liverpool Street, take a train to Ingatestone Station on the London-Norwich line; the journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes. From the station, the hall is about 0.75 miles away, accessible by a 15-20 minute walk along gently sloping terrain. Taxi services are available at the station for a quicker transfer.
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Bus
Local bus services run between Chelmsford and Brentwood, stopping near Station Lane in Ingatestone. The bus ride typically takes 20-35 minutes depending on the starting point. From the bus stop, it is a 15-minute walk to the hall through mostly flat countryside paths.
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Car
Driving from the A12, parking is available in a grass car park approximately 200 meters from the hall. The drive time from Chelmsford or Brentwood is around 15-25 minutes. Note that the car park surface can be uneven, so caution is advised. Parking is free for visitors.
Ingatestone Hall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Ingatestone Hall
A Living Tudor Legacy Preserved Through Centuries
Ingatestone Hall stands as a remarkable example of Tudor architecture, built in the mid-16th century by Sir William Petre, a prominent statesman who served four Tudor monarchs. The hall has remained in the Petre family for fifteen generations, preserving its original form and many historical features. Visitors can admire the red brick facade, high chimneys, and distinctive crow-step gables that define its stately presence. Inside, the hall showcases oak-panelled rooms filled with antique furniture, portraits, and memorabilia that tell stories of England’s rich past.Secret Priest Holes and Tudor Intrigue
Among the hall’s most fascinating features are two priest holes—hidden chambers designed to conceal Catholic clergy during periods of religious persecution. These secret spaces add an air of mystery and historical depth, illustrating the tense religious climate of Tudor England. The discovery of one priest hole in the main staircase in 1855 adds to the hall’s allure, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past.Gardens Offering Serenity and Exploration
Surrounding the hall are ten acres of enclosed gardens, including expansive lawns, a walled garden, and a stew pond. The grounds feature several themed walks such as the Lime Walk lined with trees, the Nut Walk with hazel trees, and the Wild Walk designed to encourage local wildlife. These diverse garden areas provide a peaceful retreat and a chance for visitors to explore nature in a historic setting.Visitor Experience and Hospitality
Ingatestone Hall welcomes visitors primarily during the summer months on select days, offering guided tours led by knowledgeable guides or members of the Petre family. Tours typically include access to eight principal rooms and the gardens, with an opportunity to enjoy tea and homemade cakes in the elegant Summer Parlour. Photography is restricted inside the house to preserve its delicate interiors, enhancing the intimate atmosphere.A Venue for Celebrations and Private Events
Beyond public visits, Ingatestone Hall is a sought-after location for private hire, including weddings, corporate events, and cultural gatherings. The hall’s civil ceremony license and extensive grounds make it an attractive venue for bespoke celebrations. While outside caterers are permitted, the hall maintains a standard of quality through approved suppliers, ensuring a memorable experience in a historic setting.Accessibility and Practical Information
The hall is situated about 0.75 miles from Ingatestone railway station and accessible by local bus services. While the grounds are mostly accessible, the historic nature of the house means upper floors are not wheelchair accessible, and some outdoor paths include soft surfaces and slopes. Facilities include a tea room, picnic areas near the car park, restrooms, and a gift shop. Guide dogs are welcome, but pets are not permitted in the house or gardens.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
9.0 km
The only complete Chain Home radar tower in the UK, a towering symbol of WWII air defence and Cold War innovation in Great Baddow.
Laindon War Memorial
10.0 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
Falklands Island Monument
20.9 km
A solemn tribute in Grays honoring merchant seafarers who sacrificed their lives in the 1982 Falklands War.
Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
25.0 km
Explore the earliest princely Anglo-Saxon burial in England, revealing a royal Christian tomb rich with ancient treasures and history.
Wayfinding Stone
26.0 km
Explore the Wayfinding Stone in Southend-on-Sea, a unique monument that symbolizes navigation and adventure, connecting visitors to local heritage.
Southend Pier and Railway
26.6 km
Discover the iconic Southend Pier and Railway, a historic landmark offering breathtaking views, delightful train rides, and family-friendly activities.
Southend-on-Sea Seafront
26.9 km
Discover the magic of Southend-on-Sea Seafront, where tradition meets seaside fun, perfect for family outings and creating lasting memories.
The Gypsy Stone
27.2 km
Discover the Gypsy Stone in Woodford, a serene forest monument honoring evangelist Rodney 'Gipsy' Smith and Romani heritage.
Southchurch Hall
27.2 km
Explore the historical elegance and serene gardens of Southchurch Hall, a captivating museum in Southend-on-Sea that reveals the region's rich heritage.
Sealife Adventure
27.3 km
Explore the captivating marine life at Sealife Adventure, Southend-on-Sea's premier aquarium, featuring over 40 exhibits and interactive experiences.
Southchurch Park
27.9 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Southchurch Park, a serene escape in Southend-on-Sea perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks.
Southend Pier
28.1 km
Experience Southend Pier: The longest pleasure pier in the world, offering breathtaking views, family-friendly attractions, and vibrant seaside culture.
Leytonstone
28.3 km
Explore London's vibrant heritage at Leytonstone Underground Station, a beautifully adorned transit hub connecting you to the city's highlights.
Rye House Gatehouse
29.1 km
Discover the historical essence of England at the Rye House Gatehouse, a captivating landmark and museum in Hoddesdon, showcasing its rich heritage.
River Lee Navigation
29.3 km
Experience the tranquility of River Lee Navigation, a scenic waterway offering picturesque views, wildlife encounters, and outdoor activities in the heart of England.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mountnessing Windmill
2.4 km
Historic 1807 post mill in Essex, fully restored and working, offering heritage milling and scenic village charm.
Cater Museum
4.5 km
Discover Billericay’s heritage at the quaint Cater Museum, where local history comes alive in a charming High Street setting.
Norsey Wood Local Nature Reserve
4.7 km
Explore the tranquil trails and vibrant wildlife of Norsey Wood, a scenic local nature reserve in Billericay perfect for family walks and seasonal beauty.
Hylands House
6.4 km
Historic Grade II* listed mansion and expansive parkland offering luxurious weddings, elegant events, and stunning Essex countryside views.
Hylands Park
6.9 km
Explore 574 acres of historic parkland and a stunning neo-classical mansion in Chelmsford's cherished Hylands Park.
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
7.1 km
Essex sanctuary rescuing 700+ animals with ethical encounters and countryside peace.
Barleylands Farm Park
7.8 km
Discover hands-on farm fun, seasonal events, and family adventures at Barleylands Farm Park and Village in Essex.
The Essex Regiment Museum
8.5 km
Explore the rich military heritage of the Essex Regiment amidst the tranquil beauty of Oaklands Park in Chelmsford.
Chelmsford Museum
8.5 km
Explore Chelmsford’s rich history through immersive exhibits and family-friendly activities in the heart of Oaklands Park.
Thorndon Country Park
8.6 km
Explore 500+ acres of ancient woodlands, scenic parkland, and the original Gruffalo Trail in Essex’s historic Thorndon Country Park.
Thorndon Country Park South
9.0 km
Rolling parkland with sweeping views, perfect for picnics, dog walking, and fishing at Old Hall Pond in Brentwood, Essex.
Noak Bridge Nature Reserve
9.2 km
Discover peaceful trails, diverse wildlife, and community spirit at Basildon’s welcoming Noak Bridge Nature Reserve.
Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker
9.4 km
Explore the vast underground Cold War bunker hidden beneath a modest Essex bungalow, revealing Britain's secret nuclear defense history.
Central Park
9.4 km
Historic Chelmsford park blending nature, sports, family fun, and vibrant community events across 35 acres of green space.
Weald Country Park
9.6 km
Explore 520 acres of historic Essex parkland with deer, lakes, play trails, and scenic walking and cycling routes for all ages.
Essential places to dine
Bartellas Restaurant
3.8 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a warm, inviting setting nestled in the Essex countryside near Ingatestone.
Hoop at Stock
3.8 km
Historic 15th-century gastropub in Stock village serving award-winning modern British cuisine in a cozy, traditional setting.
Dukes Head Billericay
6.1 km
A charming gastropub in Billericay blending traditional British fare with a warm, inviting atmosphere and scenic outdoor spaces.
The Magic Mushroom
7.7 km
A stylish fine dining experience blending British and Mediterranean flavors in a charming converted barn on Billericay’s outskirts.
The New London
9.1 km
Upscale Chelmsford restaurant offering scratch-made dishes, attentive service, and a cozy contemporary lounge atmosphere.
Alec's Restaurant
9.2 km
Alec's Restaurant in Brentwood offers exquisite seafood and fine dining in a beautifully restored historic setting with impeccable service.
Acanteen
9.7 km
Chelmsford’s all-day bar, restaurant and live music venue – brunch, pizza, cocktails and events in a buzzing city-centre setting.
Russells Restaurant
9.8 km
Historic vaulted barn setting meets refined French and English fine dining with seasonal dishes and exceptional service in Great Baddow.
Samphire Restaurant @ The County Hotel
9.8 km
Award-winning British cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a stylish, family-friendly Chelmsford setting.
Fête at Grays Brewery Yard
9.8 km
Eclectic global flavours and vibrant cocktails in a quirky, welcoming eatery at Chelmsford’s lively Brewery Yard.
Cosy Club
9.9 km
Experience timeless art deco charm and inclusive British dining at Cosy Club Chelmsford, open all day for every occasion.
Bill's Chelmsford Restaurant
10.0 km
A vibrant British restaurant in Chelmsford’s town centre, serving all-day meals, seasonal specials, and welcoming guests with a lively atmosphere.
Vita Bella
11.9 km
Authentic Italian cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming village setting near Chelmsford.
Pig & Whistle Restaurant
12.8 km
Charming 16th-century countryside restaurant in Chelmsford offering award-winning British cuisine and a cosy, intimate dining experience.
Rose & Crown - Great Waltham
15.2 km
Essex village gastro pub where seasonal menus and warm hospitality create memorable dining moments.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Baytree Shopping Centre
7.7 km
A practical and accessible shopping centre at the heart of Brentwood, offering everyday essentials and local services.
French Quarter
7.8 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares in Brentwood’s welcoming French Quarter boutique.
Minnie's Boutique
7.8 km
Discover unique styles and personalized service at Minnie's Boutique, a charming ladies' clothing shop in Brentwood, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
Riverside Retail Park
10.5 km
A convenient and lively retail hub in Chelmsford offering diverse stores, eateries, and accessible parking on Victoria Road.
The Factory Shops
17.0 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
B-Invogue - Ladies Clothes Essex
19.0 km
A friendly Epping boutique offering stylish, affordable ladies’ fashion in a welcoming, personal setting.
Gifts for All Home Decor
19.3 km
Discover unique, stylish home decor and gifts at Gifts for All Home Decor, Hadleigh’s charming boutique with quality and affordability.
Blush Boutique Essex
19.7 km
Chic and contemporary ladies’ fashion boutique on Epping High Street, blending quality, style, and comfort in every piece.
The Emporium Maldon
21.5 km
A beloved family-run gift and garden shop in Maldon’s historic High Street, renowned for variety, community spirit, and local charm.
La Luna Boutique
22.0 km
Discover unique bohemian fashion with a vintage rock ’n’ roll edge at La Luna Boutique in Leigh-on-Sea.
Store Thirty3
22.5 km
A charming gift shop on Elm Road offering unique local treasures in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea’s vibrant coastal town.
Latham Street
22.6 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion reimagined with style and care at Latham Street in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea.
A Touch Too Wild
22.9 km
Elegant bespoke ladies' couture and formal wear boutique in the charming seaside town of Leigh-on-Sea.
The Curiosity Shop
23.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Great Dunmow at The Curiosity Shop, a charming boutique with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Argosy Toys & Gifts
24.3 km
Discover a treasure trove of toys and gifts at Argosy Toys, a cherished independent shop in Westcliff-on-Sea since 1947.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
George And Dragon Mount Nessin
2.8 km
A charming British gastropub in Mountnessing blending rustic tradition with modern dining and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Bear Inn - Stock
3.6 km
A warm, traditional gastropub in Stock offering hearty British fare, a large beer garden, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
Harry's Bar
4.4 km
A stylish and welcoming bar and restaurant in Billericay’s heart, perfect for relaxed dining and vibrant socializing.
Cristi's Bar
4.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and expertly crafted cocktails in Billericay’s vibrant and stylish Cristi's Bar.
The Leather Bottle Blackmore
6.1 km
A charming gastropub in Blackmore blending quirky decor, seasonal British cuisine, and a welcoming village atmosphere all year round.
The Fox and Goose
6.8 km
A modern gastropub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with seasonal British cuisine and inviting garden dining.
The Merchant Brentwood
7.9 km
A vibrant pub on Brentwood High Street serving artisan comfort food, lively sports, and spirited social gatherings from day to night.
Fox & Hounds
7.9 km
A welcoming Chelmsford pub offering hearty British classics, lively sports viewing, and a warm, friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
The Orange Tree
9.1 km
A lively gastro pub in Chelmsford offering excellent ales, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Be At One - Chelmsford
9.6 km
Discover over 100 cocktails and vibrant nightlife at Be At One Chelmsford, featuring rooftop terrace and unbeatable happy hour deals.
The Bootmaker
9.7 km
Historic Chelmsford pub and cocktail bar blending tradition with modern social dining and handcrafted drinks.
The Ale House
9.8 km
Chelmsford’s vibrant craft beer bar where you can bring your own food and enjoy a welcoming, lively atmosphere with expert service.
Slug & Lettuce - Chelmsford
9.9 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Chelmsford offering creative drinks, stylish interiors, and a lively social atmosphere from brunch to late night.
The Prim and Proper Cocktail Bar
9.9 km
Basildon’s premier mobile cocktail bar delivering expert mixology and stylish service to your private events and celebrations.
Boom Battle Bar Chelmsford
9.9 km
Chelmsford’s premier games bar blending axe throwing, shuffleboard, street food, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Tantalize
9.6 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
9.7 km
A large, lively nightclub in Chelmsford known for affordable drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and a mix of praise and controversy around its staff and music.
Popworld - Chelmsford
9.9 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
The Loft Basildon
11.3 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Epping Roof Garden & Nightclub
19.7 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
The Lounge Jazz Club
22.8 km
Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Faces NightClub
24.1 km
A stylish, vibrant nightclub in Gants Hill with immersive sound, dynamic visuals, and a versatile space for unforgettable nights and events.
The Moonraker Club
24.8 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Westcliff-on-Sea with top DJs, a powerful sound system, and a lively social scene for unforgettable nights out.
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
25.8 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, top DJs, and a lively atmosphere at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Just Vibez
26.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
Foundation
26.4 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Sunrooms2
26.4 km
Experience Southend-on-Sea’s dynamic nightlife at Sunrooms², where live music and DJ-driven parties keep the energy alive until the early hours.
MYST Club
26.7 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
Air & Breathe Nightclub
26.9 km
Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
CQ LOUNGE
30.2 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
