Oxburgh Estate: A Moated Medieval Manor Steeped in Catholic History
Discover Oxburgh Estate, a moated medieval manor where Catholic history, royal legacy, and Gothic revival architecture intertwine in tranquil Norfolk parkland.
Oxburgh Estate in Norfolk is a striking moated country house built in 1482 for Sir Edmund Bedingfeld, a rising star at the royal court. The red-brick hall, surrounded by a square moat and accessed via a fortified gatehouse, reflects centuries of the Bedingfeld family's Catholic faith, royal connections, and resilience through turbulent English history. Now owned by the National Trust, the estate features Gothic Revival architecture, historic interiors, formal gardens, and woodland walks, offering visitors a glimpse into over 500 years of English heritage.
A brief summary to Oxburgh Estate
- King's Lynn, Oxborough, PE33 9PS, GB
- +441366328258
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit the gatehouse to appreciate its seven-tiered polygonal towers and learn about its symbolic defensive design.
- Don’t miss the Oxburgh Hangings, exquisite needlework by Mary, Queen of Scots, displayed on loan from the V&A Museum.
- Explore the woodland trails around the estate for a peaceful nature walk amid historic parkland.
- Check out the family chapel which contains a rare 16th-century Antwerp altarpiece, a significant piece of Catholic devotional art.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Taxi
Take a train to King's Lynn from London King's Cross or Cambridge, with journey times ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 hours. From King's Lynn station, a taxi ride of approximately 25 minutes covers the 15 km to Oxburgh Estate. Taxi fares typically range from £25 to £35. Service frequency on the train line is regular but check schedules for weekends.
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Car
Driving from Norwich or Cambridge takes about 1 to 1.5 hours via the A47 and local roads. Parking is available on-site at Oxburgh Estate with no charge. Note that some rural roads near the estate are narrow and may require cautious driving.
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Bus and Walking
From King's Lynn, take the local bus service towards Swaffham or Fakenham and alight at Oxborough village, approximately 3 km from the estate. From the village, a 35-minute walk on country lanes and footpaths leads to the hall. The terrain is mostly flat but may be muddy in wet weather.
Oxburgh Estate location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Oxburgh Estate
Foundations of Power and Prestige
Oxburgh Hall was constructed beginning in 1482 by Sir Edmund Bedingfeld after he inherited the estate, marking his ascent at the court of Edward IV. The hall’s red brick construction was a deliberate choice to signal high status, as brick was then a material reserved for royalty and the elite. Sir Edmund secured a royal licence to crenellate, allowing the addition of battlements and a fortified gatehouse, symbolizing power and prestige rather than actual military defense. The house is set within a square moat approximately 75 meters on each side, accessed by a three-arched bridge leading to the imposing gatehouse, which Nikolaus Pevsner described as the most prominent English brick gatehouse of the 15th century.Enduring Catholic Faith and Turbulent Times
The Bedingfeld family were staunch Roman Catholics during a period of religious upheaval in England. Their faith shaped much of Oxburgh’s history, including the construction of a secret priest hole within the gatehouse to shelter persecuted Catholic priests during times of anti-Catholic laws. The family’s loyalty to the crown and Catholicism led to hardships, especially during the English Civil War when Sir Henry Bedingfeld fought for the Royalists, was imprisoned in the Tower of London, and Oxburgh Hall was ransacked and partially burnt. Despite confiscation and sale by Parliament, the family regained the estate after the Restoration, though the hall was left uninhabitable for a time.Architectural Evolution and Victorian Revival
In the 19th century, Oxburgh Hall underwent significant restoration and expansion under the direction of Sir Henry Paston-Bedingfeld and architects John Chessell Buckler and Augustus Pugin. The open end of the original U-shaped house was filled in with a picturesque Gothic Revival range, adding Flemish stepped gables, a large southeast tower, oriel windows overhanging the moat, and terracotta chimneys. The interiors were richly decorated with neo-Gothic elements, including a chapel and a walled kitchen garden. Many furnishings date from this period, often incorporating earlier elements in an antiquarian style.Historic Treasures and Family Legacy
Oxburgh Hall is renowned for its collection of historic artefacts, most notably the Oxburgh Hangings—needlework panels created by Mary, Queen of Scots and Bess of Hardwick during Mary’s captivity in England. These exquisite embroideries are on loan from the Victoria and Albert Museum. The hall also houses a rare 16th-century Antwerp altarpiece in the family chapel and an extensive archive of portraits, manuscripts, and wallpapers. The Bedingfeld family’s dedication to preserving their heritage was crucial in saving the hall from demolition in the 1950s, when Sybil, Lady Bedingfeld, her daughter, and niece raised funds to buy back the estate and gift it to the National Trust in 1952.Estate Grounds and Visitor Experience
The Oxburgh Estate encompasses approximately 200 acres of historic parkland, formal gardens, and woodland walks. Visitors can explore the landscaped grounds laid out to the south and west of the hall, including a woodland explorer trail. The estate’s tranquil setting in the Norfolk fenlands offers a peaceful atmosphere steeped in centuries of history. The National Trust continues to conserve and enhance the estate, maintaining its character as a quintessentially British moated manor with deep connections to England’s religious and political past.Living History and Continuing Tradition
Though the hall is owned by the National Trust, the Bedingfeld family retains private apartments and continues to practice their Catholic faith, maintaining a living link to the estate’s origins. The family’s story is woven into the fabric of Oxburgh, from royal visits in the late 15th century to their resilience through religious persecution and civil war. The estate offers a unique window into the life of an English recusant family and the architectural and cultural evolution of a medieval manor house adapted over centuries to meet changing times.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Customs House
22.6 km
Explore Customs House in King's Lynn, a historical gem revealing the rich maritime heritage and stunning architecture of this charming coastal town.
Sandringham Estate
27.9 km
Explore Sandringham Estate, a historical landmark in Norfolk, featuring exquisite gardens and rich royal history, perfect for all visitors.
Houghton Hall & Gardens Norfolk
28.0 km
Experience the beauty and history of Houghton Hall & Gardens in Norfolk, where stunning architecture meets exquisite gardens and delightful café experiences.
Visit The Broads
29.6 km
Your gateway to exploring the enchanting waterways, wildlife, and heritage of the Norfolk Broads National Park.
VisitNorwich
48.8 km
Discover Norwich Cathedral’s soaring Norman spire, medieval carvings, and tranquil cloisters nestled in a vast historic sanctuary.
Eye Castle
48.8 km
Discover the historic Eye Castle, a medieval gem in Eye, England, offering stunning architecture and rich history for curious travelers.
Pull's Ferry
50.0 km
A tranquil 15th-century watergate and ferry house on Norwich’s River Wensum, blending rich medieval history with scenic riverside charm.
RSPB Fen Drayton Lakes
50.7 km
Discover RSPB Fen Drayton Lakes: A nature reserve rich in wildlife and scenic trails near Cambridge, perfect for hiking and outdoor exploration.
Newnham Open Air Boat Club
50.8 km
Experience the charm of Cambridge's rowing culture at Newnham Open Air Boat Club, where scenic views and community spirit unite.
Midsummer Common
50.9 km
Discover the tranquility of Midsummer Common, a stunning park in Cambridge, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and scenic riverside walks.
Trinity Bridge
51.0 km
A unique 14th-century three-way stone bridge in the heart of Crowland, once spanning two rivers, now a striking medieval monument in the town centre.
Romsey Recreation Ground
51.0 km
Explore Romsey Recreation Ground in Cambridge: A perfect blend of sports, play, and relaxation in a beautiful park setting.
Jesus Lock
51.0 km
Historic Jesus Lock on the River Cam offers serene riverside charm and a unique glimpse into Cambridge's aquatic heritage.
Dinky door: Ride and Park
51.1 km
Discover the enchanting Dinky Doors at Jesus Green Lock House, a charming cultural landmark in the heart of Cambridge, blending history and whimsy.
Vue Cinema Cambridge
51.1 km
Experience the joy of cinema at Vue Cinema Cambridge, where the latest movies meet a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Grafton Centre.
Unmissable attractions to see
Shabbytatt
10.8 km
Discover unique antiques and army surplus treasures in a warm, welcoming shop nestled in the heart of Swaffham.
Denver Windmill
13.7 km
Historic 1835 Norfolk tower mill restored to life, blending heritage tours with vibrant craft fairs and local hospitality.
Castle Acre Priory
15.3 km
Explore the majestic ruins of Castle Acre Priory, a tranquil and well-preserved medieval monastery nestled in the Norfolk countryside.
Castle Acre
15.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of a Norman motte-and-bailey castle and medieval village nestled in tranquil Norfolk countryside.
English Heritage - Thetford Priory
21.7 km
Explore the atmospheric ruins of a grand 12th-century priory, set within tranquil Norfolk grounds and steeped in medieval history and noble legacy.
Ancient House Museum
22.0 km
Discover Thetford’s rich heritage in a charming crooked house museum filled with stories, exhibits, and a tranquil garden.
Castle Rising
24.5 km
Explore one of England’s finest Norman castles, a royal residence and hunting lodge steeped in medieval history and surrounded by majestic earthworks.
Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse
28.0 km
Explore Norfolk’s rich rural heritage and Victorian workhouse history at Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse, a living museum on a sprawling 50-acre site.
Waterside Antiques Centre
28.9 km
Explore East Anglia’s largest antiques centre set by Ely’s scenic riverside, boasting three floors of vintage treasures and timeless curiosities.
Ely Museum
28.9 km
Step into Ely’s past in a historic gaol: explore the Fens’ story from prehistoric seas to prison cells and a dazzling Bronze Age gold torc.
Ely Cathedral
29.0 km
Discover Ely Cathedral’s stunning medieval architecture and iconic octagonal lantern tower, a masterpiece of English heritage and spiritual beauty.
The Maltings
29.0 km
A historic riverside events venue in Ely, perfect for weddings, conferences, and live entertainment with views of the cathedral and River Great Ouse.
The Stained Glass Museum
29.1 km
Discover the UK’s only museum dedicated to stained glass art, nestled within the historic Ely Cathedral’s breathtaking triforium.
Jubilee Gardens
29.1 km
A peaceful riverside park in Ely featuring a bandstand, playground, and vibrant community events year-round.
Oliver Cromwell's House
29.2 km
Step into the historic home of Oliver Cromwell and experience the English Civil War era through immersive exhibits and interactive tours in Ely.
Essential places to dine
The Samphire Kitchen
21.9 km
Refined modern British dining with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a stylish Norfolk manor setting.
The Mulberry
22.3 km
Savor a refined blend of British and Italian cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere at The Mulberry, Thetford’s acclaimed dining gem.
The Prince Albert
29.3 km
A charming traditional pub in Ely offering expertly crafted ales, fresh local food, and a welcoming atmosphere with a lively social calendar.
The Old Bank
33.4 km
An intimate former bank turned acclaimed bistro, offering expertly crafted tasting menus and warm hospitality in Snettisham.
Pea Porridge
38.1 km
Discover Suffolk’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, Pea Porridge, serving hearty Moorish-inspired cuisine in a warm, intimate setting.
1921
38.6 km
Experience exquisite modern British cuisine with seasonal artistry and refined hospitality at 1921 Angel Hill in historic Bury St Edmunds.
The Eaterie @ The Angel Hotel
38.7 km
Stylish modern British dining with historic charm in the heart of Bury St Edmunds at The Angel Hotel’s acclaimed restaurant.
La Maison Bleue
38.8 km
Elegant modern French dining in Bury St Edmunds, offering refined classics, exceptional service, and a curated wine selection for memorable gourmet experiences.
The Kings Head
41.8 km
A charming 4-star gastropub and inn in Bawburgh blending historic character with exceptional seasonal dining and cozy accommodation.
The White Horse Brancaster Staithe
43.4 km
A stylish coastal gastropub and hotel offering award-winning seafood, stunning tidal marsh views, and a tranquil Norfolk retreat.
The Windmill
45.6 km
A welcoming traditional English pub in Somersham offering excellent food, attentive service, and a relaxed countryside atmosphere.
The Cellar House
46.2 km
A charming family-run pub in Norwich’s Eaton district, blending traditional British hospitality with beautifully crafted modern cuisine.
The Bull Auberge
47.0 km
Elegant 5-star countryside inn in Suffolk offering exquisite local cuisine, luxurious rooms, and warm, attentive hospitality.
The Hole In The Wall
47.0 km
Historic gastropub and cozy B&B in Little Wilbraham, blending rustic charm with exceptional British cuisine and warm hospitality.
Roger Hickman's Restaurant
48.7 km
Elegant modern British fine dining with French flair in the heart of Norwich’s historic district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Norfolk Boutique
16.1 km
Discover elegant ladies' fashion and personalized service in the charming village setting of Norfolk Boutique, East Winch.
Bohemia Vintage & Lifestyle
38.6 km
Discover unique vintage fashion, retro homewares, and quirky collectibles at Bohemia Vintage & Lifestyle in the heart of Bury St Edmunds.
Unique Gifts & Interiors
40.3 km
Boutique gift and interiors shop in Hunstanton offering luxury home styling, bespoke furniture, and expert design services.
Flints Finds
42.1 km
Discover authentic, sustainably sourced vintage clothing at Flints Finds, Hunstanton's premier destination for timeless style and eco-conscious fashion.
Very Nice Things Gift Shop
42.2 km
Discover quirky gifts and seasonal treasures in the heart of Reepham’s charming market town.
The Vintage Peacock
44.5 km
Discover unique vintage-inspired gifts and stylish apparel in a cozy, artisan-focused boutique in the heart of Somersham.
Natural East
45.9 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home furniture in a charming coastal shop on The Quay at Wells-next-the-Sea.
Shop With A View
45.9 km
Charming gift shop on Wells-next-the-Sea’s picturesque quay, blending unique shopping with stunning harbour views and local maritime spirit.
Norwich Lanes
49.2 km
Discover Norwich Lanes, a vibrant maze of independent shops, artisan cafes, and historic charm in the heart of Norwich city centre.
Inanna's Magical Gifts
49.3 km
Discover mystical treasures and handcrafted artistry at Inanna's Magical Gifts, Norwich’s premier metaphysical boutique.
Anglia Square
49.3 km
Eclectic shopping and vibrant local character converge in Norwich’s distinctive Anglia Square urban centre.
Elm Hill Craft Shop
49.4 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and nostalgic treasures in the heart of Norwich’s historic Elm Hill at Elm Hill Craft Shop.
Cathedral Shop
49.6 km
Discover unique Norfolk crafts and Cathedral treasures at Norwich Cathedral’s charming Gift Shop in the historic Cathedral Close.
Romsey Barbers Ltd Cambridge
49.7 km
Classic cuts in Cambridge's Romsey: friendly barber shop delivering sharp fades and shaves with neighborhood warmth.
Make Holt
50.3 km
Discover unique handicrafts and homewares at Make Holt, a charming shop in the heart of Holt, showcasing local artistry and creativity.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Brisley Bell
29.2 km
Historic 17th-century Norfolk pub with award-winning food, boutique rooms, and expansive gardens blending tradition and modern comfort.
The Rose & Crown
33.5 km
A quintessential Norfolk village inn blending historic charm with modern dining, cozy rooms, and a welcoming pub atmosphere.
Unique Bar Newmarket
39.1 km
Experience the lively vibes and weekend dance nights at Unique Bar, Newmarket’s hotspot for great drinks and energetic fun.
The Gin Trap Inn
39.3 km
A cozy Norfolk country pub and inn blending traditional charm with fine dining and comfortable, thoughtful accommodation.
The Brewers Inn
46.5 km
A refined gastro pub with Indian-inspired dishes and cozy rooms, offering a peaceful retreat near Cambridge.
The Mad Cat Inn
47.1 km
A cozy traditional village pub in Pidley offering hearty roasts, friendly service, and authentic British charm.
The New Crown
47.2 km
A welcoming pub in Whittlesey offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Peterborough’s historic market town.
The Jolly Sailor Ramsey
48.1 km
Historic 400-year-old pub in Ramsey offering traditional British fare, quality ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Plough Cambridge
48.2 km
A charming riverside gastropub in Fen Ditton offering classic British fare with modern flair and scenic views by the River Cam.
The White Lion
48.9 km
A traditional, friendly pub in Bury offering classic ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Wallow | Self Service Wine Bar
49.2 km
Discover Norwich’s pioneering self-service wine bar offering over 50 wines, delicious sharing platters, and a relaxed, stylish atmosphere.
The Corner House
50.5 km
A lively gastropub on Newmarket Road offering excellent pub food, diverse drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere in Cambridge.
Fort St George
50.8 km
Historic 16th-century riverside pub in Cambridge offering classic British fare, local ales, and a warm, traditional atmosphere.
The Tivoli
50.9 km
A vibrant four-floor venue in Cambridge offering mini golf, shuffleboard, rooftop views, craft drinks, and casual dining for memorable social experiences.
The Burleigh Arms
51.0 km
A vibrant gastropub blending traditional charm with innovative Pan-Asian and British flavors in the heart of Cambridge.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ice Nightclub
22.2 km
Thetford’s vibrant nightlife hotspot with nostalgic tunes, lively parties, and a welcoming atmosphere for over-18s.
Flex Nightclub
38.6 km
Lively late-night nightclub in Bury St. Edmunds offering dance music, bar service, and a bustling atmosphere with a local crowd.
Sugar & Spice - Strip Club and Lap Dancing Norwich
49.7 km
Norwich’s premier American-style strip club offering vibrant entertainment, VIP experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
Mantra
49.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and great music at Mantra Nightclub, Norwich’s energetic weekend party destination with friendly staff and affordable drinks.
Fluke
49.7 km
Experience Norwich’s vibrant nightlife at Fluke, where great music, affordable drinks, and a lively crowd come together for unforgettable nights.
Mojo's
49.7 km
Mojo's: Norwich's gritty, no-frills nightclub pulsing with late-night beats and authentic urban energy.
Popworld - Norwich
49.7 km
Norwich’s vibrant late-night hotspot for pop hits, friendly vibes, and unforgettable party nights on Prince of Wales Road.
Loft Nightclub
49.8 km
Norwich’s vibrant gay nightclub with over 30 years of inclusive nightlife, music, and community spirit in the heart of the city.
EBC Shop
50.7 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at EBC Shop in Cambridge, where the music keeps you dancing and the atmosphere is always electric.
Cambridge Working Mens Club
51.0 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
51.3 km
Free live jazz pop-ups in a historic Cambridge pub: intimate sets, diverse musicians, speakeasy vibes on select Wednesdays at 7:30pm.
Salisbury Club
51.4 km
Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
Vinyl Cambridge
51.6 km
Dance through decades on a glowing LED floor at Vinyl Cambridge's throwback haven—2-for-1 drinks, VIP vibes, and non-stop retro anthems await in the city center.
MASH
51.7 km
Cambridge’s vibrant independent nightclub offering themed music nights and a welcoming, safe party atmosphere until the early hours.
High Five
51.8 km
Cambridge's electrifying gay nightclub where themed nights, drag glamour, and inclusive dance floors ignite unforgettable evenings in the city heart.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly
