Kentwell Hall: A Quintessential Tudor Manor with Living History in Suffolk
Explore Kentwell Hall, a timeless Tudor manor with moat, gardens, rare breeds farm, and immersive living history in Suffolk’s scenic Long Melford.
Kentwell Hall is a stunning Tudor manor house in Long Melford, Suffolk, dating back to the 15th century with origins recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Surrounded by a broad moat and extensive gardens, it features rare-breed farms, historic interiors with Victorian and Georgian influences, and hosts immersive living history events. Visitors can explore the house, grounds, and enjoy seasonal open-air performances and family activities.
A brief summary to Kentwell Hall
- Sudbury, High Street, Long Melford, CO10 9BA, GB
- +441787310207
- Visit website
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to save on entrance fees and secure your preferred visit date.
- Wear sturdy footwear and dress for the weather, as much of the visit involves outdoor gardens and farm areas.
- Plan for a 4 to 5-hour visit to fully enjoy the house, gardens, farm, and seasonal events.
- Check the event calendar before visiting, as special events may affect regular access to some areas.
- Accessible facilities and wheelchair-friendly routes are available, but some garden paths may be challenging in wet conditions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Car
Driving to Kentwell Hall from Sudbury takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes via local roads. Free on-site parking is available, but spaces can fill during special events. The route includes rural lanes, so drive cautiously. Parking is accessible for disabled visitors.
-
Public Transport
Take a train to Sudbury Railway Station, then a taxi or local bus service to Long Melford, about 4 km from Kentwell Hall. Taxi rides typically last 10 minutes and cost around £10-£15. Bus services are infrequent and may require advance planning.
-
Walking
For active visitors, a 45-minute walk from Long Melford village center to Kentwell Hall is possible along country lanes and footpaths. Terrain is mostly flat but can be muddy after rain. Suitable for those comfortable with rural walking.
Kentwell Hall location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Kentwell Hall
Historic Foundations and Architectural Evolution
Kentwell Hall's origins trace back to the Domesday Book of 1086, marking it as one of Suffolk's oldest estates. Initially held by Aelfgar, it passed through notable hands including Sir William de Valence and the Clopton family, who shaped much of the current Tudor structure. The main house was built in phases from the late 15th to mid-16th century, featuring a distinctive redbrick facade, two forward wings, and a moat that remains one of the county's largest. The Moat House, a rare surviving 15th-century service building, adds to the estate's historic fabric.Interior Transformations and Victorian Influence
The interior reflects centuries of evolution, with significant Georgian features introduced around 1800, such as ornate fireplaces and dentil cornices. A devastating fire in 1826 led to major Victorian-era renovations commissioned by Robert Hart Logan and designed by architect Thomas Hopper. These works infused the house with Gothic, Scottish Baronial, and Jacobean elements, particularly visible in the Great Hall’s plaster hammer-beam ceiling and remodeled dining spaces, blending historic styles with 19th-century tastes.Gardens, Grounds, and Rare Breeds Farm
Kentwell Hall is set within nearly 30 acres of formal gardens and parkland, including a mile-long lime tree avenue planted in the 17th century. The grounds feature a rare-breeds farm, offering visitors a chance to see traditional English livestock and explore working historic farm buildings. The gardens are carefully restored and maintained, providing tranquil walking paths and scenic views that complement the manor’s grandeur.Living History and Seasonal Events
Kentwell Hall is renowned for its pioneering domestic living history events, bringing Tudor England to life with skilled reenactors portraying the Clopton family and their servants. Throughout the year, the estate hosts family-friendly festivals, open-air cinema, theatre performances, and themed seasonal celebrations such as Tudor Michaelmas and Halloween activities. These immersive experiences deepen visitors’ connection to the estate’s rich heritage.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors can explore the house, gardens, and farm at their leisure, typically spending 4 to 5 hours. Facilities include accessible toilets, a tearoom serving refreshments, a gift shop, and free on-site parking. The estate is mostly wheelchair accessible, with some limitations in the gardens during wet weather. Dogs are not permitted except for guide dogs. Tickets are available on-site or online, with annual memberships offering unlimited access to gardens and some events.Continued Stewardship and Restoration
Since 1971, the Phillips family has undertaken extensive restoration to preserve Kentwell Hall’s architectural and historical integrity. Their stewardship ensures the manor remains a vibrant, lived-in family home and a cultural landmark. The estate balances conservation with public engagement, allowing visitors to experience centuries of English history within an authentic and lovingly maintained setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Finchingfield Post Mill
23.2 km
Discover Essex’s oldest post mill, a charming 18th-century landmark overlooking the picturesque village of Finchingfield.
Middle Mill Weir
25.9 km
Historic Middle Mill Weir on the River Colne, a testament to Colchester’s water-powered industrial heritage and enduring community spirit.
Balkerne Gate
26.1 km
Explore Balkerne Gate, Britain's largest surviving Roman gateway, a monumental symbol of Colchester’s ancient Roman heritage and architectural mastery.
Roman Theatre
26.2 km
Ancient Roman amphitheatre where 3,000 spectators once gathered, now marked by darker paving in Colchester's historic streets.
Colchester War Memorial
26.4 km
A dignified tribute in the heart of Colchester honoring the sacrifice and service of its wartime heroes.
Natural History Museum
26.4 km
Discover Colchester’s natural past and present in a charming historic church turned family-friendly museum with free entry and engaging exhibits.
Nigel’s Gate
37.2 km
Discover Nigel’s Gate, a tranquil historic landmark in Little Henham blending rural charm with timeless English heritage.
Eye Castle
38.4 km
Discover the historic Eye Castle, a medieval gem in Eye, England, offering stunning architecture and rich history for curious travelers.
Romsey Terrace
40.6 km
Explore the historic charm of Cambridge from Romsey Terrace, a convenient bus stop that connects you to the city's vibrant attractions and culture.
Romsey Town Post Office
40.7 km
A vital community hub in Cambridge offering comprehensive postal, financial, and travel services with a welcoming local atmosphere.
The Centre for Computing History
40.8 km
Explore the evolution of technology and gaming at The Centre for Computing History, a must-see museum in Cambridge, offering hands-on exhibits and educational events.
Romsey 'R' sculpture
40.9 km
Explore the Romsey 'R' Sculpture in Cambridge, a vibrant piece of public art that embodies the city's creative spirit.
Cambridge Science Centre
40.9 km
Explore the interactive exhibits at Cambridge Science Centre, where science meets fun and learning becomes an adventure for all ages.
Cambridge Leisure Park
41.0 km
A lively Cambridge leisure hub offering diverse dining, entertainment, and modern facilities for all ages and tastes.
Tenpin Cambridge
41.0 km
Experience endless fun at Tenpin Cambridge - the ultimate bowling alley and entertainment center with games, laser tag, and more for the whole family.
Unmissable attractions to see
Holy Trinity Church, Long Melford
1.1 km
Explore the awe-inspiring medieval Holy Trinity Church in Long Melford, a Suffolk wool church renowned for its grand architecture and historic stained glass.
National Trust - Melford Hall
1.7 km
Explore centuries of history, naval heritage, and tranquil gardens at Melford Hall, a beloved Suffolk family estate with charming Tudor features.
St Peter & St Paul's Church, Alpheton
2.8 km
Experience the tranquility and history of St Peter & St Paul's Church, Alpheton, a hidden gem in the picturesque Sudbury region of England.
The Cock Horse Inn - Lavenham
5.2 km
Historic timber-framed pub in medieval Lavenham offering traditional ales, hearty meals, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
National Trust - Lavenham Guildhall
5.4 km
Step into 500 years of history at Lavenham Guildhall, a beautifully preserved Tudor timber-framed treasure in the heart of Suffolk’s medieval village.
Little Hall Museum, Lavenham
5.5 km
Discover the rich history and Tudor charm of Little Hall, a beautifully preserved 14th-century timber-framed house in Lavenham’s Market Place.
Hedingham Castle
14.2 km
Explore one of England’s finest Norman keeps, steeped in history and set within stunning Essex gardens and grounds.
English Heritage - Bury St Edmunds Abbey
16.3 km
Explore the majestic ruins of Bury St Edmunds Abbey nestled within tranquil, historic Abbey Gardens in the heart of Suffolk.
arc Shopping Centre
16.4 km
Modern shopping meets cultural entertainment in the heart of historic Bury St Edmunds.
East Anglian Railway Museum
19.3 km
Explore over 10 acres of railway heritage with vintage locomotives, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly events near Colchester.
Risby Barn Antique Centre
19.5 km
Discover antiques, collectibles, and countryside charm in a historic 16th-century barn near Bury St Edmunds.
Hillhouse Wood
21.4 km
Discover peaceful trails, vibrant bluebells, and diverse wildlife in Hillhouse Wood, a cherished natural retreat near Colchester.
Markshall Estate
22.9 km
Historic Markshall Estate: A millennium of heritage, nature, and stewardship in Essex’s tranquil gardens and arboretum.
Finchingfield unesco world heritage bid
23.2 km
Explore the oldest windmill in Essex, perched above the picturesque village of Finchingfield, a timeless symbol of rural heritage and charm.
Finchingfield Guildhall
23.3 km
Explore centuries of village life in this beautifully restored 15th-century Guildhall, a living heritage gem in the heart of Finchingfield.
Essential places to dine
Scutchers
1.3 km
Refined British fine dining in the historic village of Long Melford, blending exceptional cuisine with warm, polished service.
The Great House Hotel and Restaurant
5.4 km
Historic elegance and exquisite dining converge in the heart of Lavenham’s medieval Market Place.
La Maison Bleue
16.2 km
Elegant modern French dining in Bury St Edmunds, offering refined classics, exceptional service, and a curated wine selection for memorable gourmet experiences.
The Eaterie @ The Angel Hotel
16.3 km
Stylish modern British dining with historic charm in the heart of Bury St Edmunds at The Angel Hotel’s acclaimed restaurant.
1921
16.4 km
Experience exquisite modern British cuisine with seasonal artistry and refined hospitality at 1921 Angel Hill in historic Bury St Edmunds.
Pea Porridge
16.8 km
Discover Suffolk’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, Pea Porridge, serving hearty Moorish-inspired cuisine in a warm, intimate setting.
Talbooth Restaurant
22.9 km
Award-winning Modern British fine dining on the River Stour, where 19th-century charm meets contemporary culinary excellence.
The Barn Brasserie, Great Tey
23.2 km
Historic 16th-century barn meets modern British dining in a charming Essex countryside setting with warm hospitality and versatile event spaces.
Harvester Stanway Colchester
24.7 km
Casual family-friendly British bar & grill in Colchester offering fresh, flavorful meals from breakfast to dinner in a relaxed setting.
The Eaterie @ the Salthouse Harbour Hotel
30.6 km
Modern British dining with fresh local seafood and stunning marina views at Ipswich’s stylish Salthouse Harbour Hotel.
Pig & Truffle
33.5 km
Historic charm meets modern British cuisine in a cozy village setting, delivering refined flavors and warm hospitality at Pig & Truffle.
Castle - Great Leighs
33.6 km
A charming and cozy English village pub in Great Leighs serving freshly cooked, reasonably priced meals with friendly service and warm ambiance.
The Hole In The Wall
33.7 km
Historic gastropub and cozy B&B in Little Wilbraham, blending rustic charm with exceptional British cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Square & Compasses
33.9 km
A charming Essex countryside gastropub blending rustic warmth with refined British cuisine and local ales.
The Mulberry
35.0 km
Savor a refined blend of British and Italian cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere at The Mulberry, Thetford’s acclaimed dining gem.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bohemia Vintage & Lifestyle
16.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion, retro homewares, and quirky collectibles at Bohemia Vintage & Lifestyle in the heart of Bury St Edmunds.
Love Local Essex & Suffolk
24.9 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures celebrating the rich heritage and creativity of Essex and Suffolk at this charming Copford gift shop.
Rocks & Rubies
26.3 km
Discover rare crystals, artisan gifts, and spiritual treasures in the heart of historic Colchester.
Bestdays Vintage
26.4 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion and eclectic music treasures in a cozy, welcoming Colchester shop with a personal touch.
George Yard Shopping Centre
27.0 km
A vibrant pedestrianised shopping hub in Braintree offering diverse stores and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Quirky Old Stuff
28.6 km
Discover a whimsical world of antiques and vintage curiosities in Manningtree’s most eclectic shop, where every item tells a story.
Essential Vintage
30.5 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion classics in the heart of Ipswich’s charming Eagle Street.
The Curiosity Shop
35.0 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.
Romsey Barbers Ltd Cambridge
40.3 km
Classic cuts in Cambridge's Romsey: friendly barber shop delivering sharp fades and shaves with neighborhood warmth.
The Stock Shop
40.4 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and accessories in a unique hospital setting at The Stock Shop, Cambridge's trusted retail haven since 1988.
The Old Chemist Shop Antique Centre
40.7 km
Vibrant Cambridge antique centre in a former chemist shop, brimming with 20th-century toys, jewelry, and eclectic finds from fun-loving dealers.
Romsey Mill Charity Shop
40.9 km
Mill Road’s friendly charity shop — thrift, small discoveries and funds for local youth and family services in Cambridge.
The Emporium Maldon
40.9 km
A beloved family-run gift and garden shop in Maldon’s historic High Street, renowned for variety, community spirit, and local charm.
Cambridge Retail Park
41.0 km
Explore Cambridge Retail Park: your one-stop shopping hub with diverse stores, delicious eateries, and a vibrant atmosphere for every visitor.
Beehive Centre
41.0 km
A dynamic shopping centre in Cambridge offering diverse stores, dining, and free parking for a convenient retail experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Three Wise Monkeys
26.4 km
A vibrant multi-floor pub in Colchester offering craft beers, hearty smokehouse food, and lively events in a unique historic setting.
Unique Bar Newmarket
26.8 km
Experience the lively vibes and weekend dance nights at Unique Bar, Newmarket’s hotspot for great drinks and energetic fun.
The Three Tuns
32.9 km
Historic 16th-century pub in Great Abington blending authentic Thai cuisine with charming accommodation and a warm village atmosphere.
Red Lion, Cherry Hinton
38.6 km
Historic village pub in Cherry Hinton with a lively atmosphere, dog-friendly garden, classic fare, and live sports entertainment.
The Tickell Arms
39.0 km
Historic gastropub in Whittlesford offering seasonal British cuisine, charming gardens, local ales, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Plough Cambridge
40.1 km
A charming riverside gastropub in Fen Ditton offering classic British fare with modern flair and scenic views by the River Cam.
Rock
40.3 km
Cherry Hinton's go-to Greene King pub for hearty meals, well-kept ales, and neighborhood camaraderie on lively Cherry Hinton Road.
The Royal Standard Pub
40.4 km
Cambridge's Mill Road gastropub pouring exceptional gins, craft beers, and hearty plates in a quirky, cosy haven for every occasion.
196 cocktail bar
40.8 km
Discover Cambridge’s intimate cocktail haven with expertly crafted drinks, cozy vibes, and attentive service on vibrant Mill Road.
The Geldart
41.1 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cambridge blending historic charm, creative hot rock dining, and a lively retro music atmosphere for a unique experience.
The Petersfield
41.1 km
A friendly and lively pub in Cambridge offering classic drinks, a welcoming garden, and a cozy atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Station Tavern
41.1 km
Cambridge's first Young's pub, steps from the station: British seasonal eats, fine ales, and terrace vibes for travelers and locals.
Devonshire Arms
41.1 km
Cambridge's cozy real ale gem with ciders galore, Caribbean kicks, and a labyrinthine layout that invites you to settle in for the evening.
The Brewers Inn
41.1 km
A refined gastro pub with Indian-inspired dishes and cozy rooms, offering a peaceful retreat near Cambridge.
The Corner House
41.2 km
A lively gastropub on Newmarket Road offering excellent pub food, diverse drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere in Cambridge.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Flex Nightclub
16.3 km
Lively late-night nightclub in Bury St. Edmunds offering dance music, bar service, and a bustling atmosphere with a local crowd.
Carbon Nightclub
21.6 km
Experience Stowmarket’s lively nightlife at Carbon Nightclub, a modern venue pulsing with music and weekend energy.
Trilogy Nightclub
26.2 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
26.3 km
Experience Colchester’s lively nightlife with Rubix Bar & Nightclub’s energetic music, vibrant dance floor, and welcoming social scene every weekend night.
The Club
29.9 km
Experience Ipswich’s vibrant nightlife at The Club, where music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere come alive in the city centre.
Supper Club
30.3 km
Lively nightclub in Ipswich offering great drinks, music, and a vibrant social scene from afternoon until early morning.
Ice Nightclub
35.2 km
Thetford’s vibrant nightlife hotspot with nostalgic tunes, lively parties, and a welcoming atmosphere for over-18s.
Salisbury Club
40.5 km
Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
Sing Dizzy
41.0 km
Sing Dizzy offers Cambridge a lively karaoke bar experience with costumes, props, and an extensive song list for unforgettable nights of fun and music.
The Calling
41.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Calling, Cambridge's premier event management venue, perfect for unforgettable experiences and fun times.
Cambridge Working Mens Club
41.6 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Cambridge Working Mens Club, a perfect blend of local culture, music, and community spirit.
Cambridge Pop-up Speakeasy Jazz
41.7 km
Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
80s karaoke bar
41.7 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
EBC Shop
41.8 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
Cambridge Lola Lo
42.5 km
Step into Cambridge Lola Lo, a vibrant tiki-themed nightclub with tropical vibes, lively dance floors, and a stunning rooftop terrace in the city centre.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
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
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
