Holdenby House: A Majestic Tudor Estate with Rich History and Gardens
Explore the grandeur of Tudor history, stunning gardens, and rare musical treasures at the majestic Holdenby House estate.
Holdenby House is a grand Tudor country estate located in Northamptonshire, England, renowned for its stunning architecture, Grade I listed gardens, and fascinating historical significance. This Grade II* listed building offers visitors a unique glimpse into English heritage, featuring rare musical instruments, a falconry centre, and beautifully preserved interiors. Set in picturesque grounds near Northampton, Holdenby House is an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and families seeking an immersive cultural experience.
A brief summary to Holdenby House
- Holdenby Rd, Northampton, NN6 8DJ, GB
- +441604770074
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekends or bank holidays when the house and falconry centre are open to enjoy guided tours and live demonstrations.
- Allow at least 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the house, gardens, and falconry displays.
- Bring a camera for the picturesque gardens and falconry shows, but check photography rules inside the house.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the extensive grounds and garden paths.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Northampton town centre takes approximately 15-20 minutes via the A43. Parking is available on-site free of charge, but spaces can be limited during events.
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Bus
Local bus services from Northampton to Holdenby run several times daily, with a journey time of around 30-40 minutes. Check timetables in advance as weekend and holiday services are less frequent.
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Taxi
Taxis from Northampton town centre to Holdenby House take about 15-20 minutes and cost approximately £15-£25 depending on traffic and time of day.
Holdenby House 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 Holdenby House
Architectural Grandeur and Historical Legacy
Holdenby House stands as a remarkable example of Tudor architecture, originally built in the late 16th century. Its imposing stone façade and intricate craftsmanship reflect the grandeur of the Elizabethan era. The estate has witnessed centuries of English history, including associations with notable figures such as Sir Christopher Hatton, Queen Elizabeth I’s Lord Chancellor. The house’s Grade II* listing underscores its architectural and historic importance, preserving its legacy for future generations.Enchanting Gardens and Outdoor Attractions
The estate’s gardens are a highlight, designated as Grade I listed, showcasing meticulously maintained grounds that blend formal Tudor garden design with natural beauty. Visitors can stroll through vibrant flowerbeds, manicured lawns, and tranquil water features that create a serene atmosphere. The gardens also host a falconry and wildlife centre, where guests can observe majestic birds of prey in flight, adding an adventurous dimension to the visit.A Treasure Trove of Musical Heritage
Inside Holdenby House, a unique museum houses some of the rarest musical instruments from various historical periods. This collection offers insight into the cultural life of the estate’s former inhabitants and the broader history of music in England. The instruments are displayed with informative descriptions, enriching the visitor experience by connecting art, history, and craftsmanship.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Holdenby House provides a welcoming environment for families, history buffs, and cultural tourists alike. Knowledgeable guides are available to share stories and answer questions, enhancing understanding of the estate’s significance. The blend of historic interiors, lush gardens, and live falconry displays creates a lively yet tranquil setting, inviting visitors to explore at their own pace and soak in the heritage.Location and Surroundings
Situated six miles northwest of Northampton, near the parish of Holdenby and close to the Althorp estate, Holdenby House is nestled in the English countryside. Its rural setting offers scenic views and a peaceful retreat from urban life. The estate’s proximity to other historic sites makes it a valuable stop for those exploring Northamptonshire’s rich cultural landscape.Events and Cultural Significance
Beyond daily visits, Holdenby House serves as an events venue, hosting weddings, concerts, and special exhibitions that celebrate its history and community role. This dynamic use of the estate helps sustain its preservation while inviting diverse audiences to engage with its heritage in meaningful ways.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Northampton Castle Postern Gate
9.2 km
Discover the solitary Postern Gate, the last surviving gateway of Northampton Castle, echoing centuries of royal history and medieval intrigue.
Rushton Triangular Lodge
20.5 km
Explore the architectural wonder of Rushton Triangular Lodge, a unique heritage building steeped in history and stunning design.
East Midlands Steam and Country Show
29.1 km
Experience the rich heritage and vibrant culture at the East Midlands Steam and Country Show, where steam engines meet delicious local food and crafts.
King Lear
35.0 km
Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.
Council House
37.3 km
A majestic Edwardian Tudor Revival building at Coventry’s heart, blending civic function with rich historical symbolism and artistic heritage.
Sir Frank Whittle
37.5 km
Coventry's tribute to the jet engine pioneer who revolutionized aviation and transformed modern flight.
Earl Shilton Castle
37.6 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Welford Place
37.8 km
Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
St John the Baptist Church
37.9 km
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The Newarke Houses Museum
37.9 km
Explore The Newarke Houses Museum in Leicester, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and captivating stories from the past.
Town Hall Square Fountain
38.0 km
Discover the charming Town Hall Square Fountain in Leicester, a captivating blend of history, culture, and serene beauty in the city's vibrant heart.
Leicester Castle
38.0 km
Explore Leicester Castle, a Norman fortress with Britain’s oldest timber Great Hall, steeped in medieval history and royal legacy.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
38.1 km
Explore the rich history of King Richard III at the Visitor Centre in Leicester, where past meets present in an engaging and interactive environment.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
38.2 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
The Guildhall Museum
38.2 km
Explore The Guildhall Museum in Leicester, a historic landmark showcasing the city's rich cultural heritage through fascinating exhibits and stunning architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Icarus Falconry
0.0 km
Experience the thrill of falconry and meet majestic birds of prey in the historic grounds of Holdenby House near Northampton.
Althorp Estate
2.9 km
Explore Althorp Estate, the historic Spencer family home and childhood of Princess Diana, blending grand heritage with serene parklands.
Coton Manor Garden
4.2 km
A vibrant 10-acre hillside garden in Northamptonshire blending historic charm, seasonal blooms, and tranquil woodland escapes.
Cottesbrooke Hall & Gardens
6.4 km
A jewel of Queen Anne architecture set in award-winning gardens, blending history, art, and nature in tranquil Northamptonshire parkland.
Vintage Retreat
8.9 km
Discover Northampton’s vast vintage emporium and charming Art Deco café, blending antiques, nostalgia, and community spirit.
Click Antiques and Vintage
9.2 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage gems with friendly service in Northampton’s welcoming Click Antiques and Vintage shop.
Lamport Hall
9.4 km
Discover centuries of history, classical architecture, and Britain’s oldest garden gnome at the enchanting Lamport Hall in Northamptonshire.
Grosvenor Shopping Northampton
9.4 km
A vibrant retail and social hub at Northampton’s heart, blending contemporary shopping with community spirit and dynamic regeneration.
0 Market Sq
9.4 km
Northampton Market Square: A vibrant historic market and community hub at the heart of Northampton since 1235.
Northampton Museum and Art Gallery
9.7 km
Discover Northampton’s cultural heart with world-class shoe collections, dynamic exhibitions, and engaging events for all ages.
78 Derngate
10.0 km
Explore 78 Derngate, the only English home designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, blending historic charm with modern art and design in Northampton.
Village Antique Market
10.1 km
Discover timeless antiques and unique treasures in the charming village setting of Weedon Bec’s premier antique market.
Hunsbury Hill
10.3 km
Explore ancient history, scenic trails, and industrial heritage at Hunsbury Hill Country Park, a tranquil green space on Northampton’s southern edge.
Queen Eleanor Cross
11.4 km
Discover the Queen Eleanor Cross in Northampton, a historical landmark celebrating love, loyalty, and medieval artistry.
Weston Favell Shopping Centre
11.4 km
A bustling Northampton shopping centre offering diverse stores, essential services, and a welcoming community atmosphere with free parking.
Essential places to dine
The Kings Head
3.4 km
A charming gastropub in Spratton blending rustic elegance with fine dining and warm local hospitality.
Fox & Hounds Lower Harleston
3.6 km
A charming gastropub in Lower Harlestone blending classic British fare with modern style and cozy country warmth.
The Hopping Hare
6.4 km
A chic and welcoming boutique hotel in Northampton, renowned for exceptional dining and attentive service in a tranquil leafy setting.
Hops and Chops
7.3 km
A stylish chophouse in Northampton offering expertly cooked steaks, attentive service, and a refined yet relaxed atmosphere.
Arizi Italian Restaurant
7.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a warm, family-run setting with homemade pasta, classic dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere in Kingsthorpe.
Marseille Restaurant
9.1 km
Cozy French bistro in Northampton serving authentic classics, superb coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere on Sheep Street.
Sorrentino Restaurant in Northampton
9.4 km
Authentic Southern Italian dining in a cozy, modern setting at the heart of Northampton’s Gold Street.
Turtle Bay Northampton
9.5 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavours and lively island vibes in the heart of Northampton with great food, cocktails, and reggae beats.
Nuovo Restaurant
9.7 km
Experience inventive Venetian cicchetti and contemporary Italian cuisine in a stylish, welcoming setting at Nuovo Restaurant in Northampton.
The Smoke Pit
9.7 km
Savor authentic American barbecue with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Northampton.
Clary's Restaurant
9.7 km
A welcoming restaurant inside Aspers Casino Northampton, known for hearty British classics, attentive service, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Sophia's Northampton
9.7 km
A cozy family-run Mediterranean gem in Northampton offering authentic Italian, French, Greek, and Spanish flavors with warm hospitality.
Saffron Restaurant
9.7 km
Experience vibrant Bangladeshi and Nepalese flavors with a modern twist in Northampton’s lively and welcoming Saffron Restaurant.
Pamukkale Turkish restaurant
9.7 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Northampton’s vibrant dining scene.
Tamarind Restaurant
9.9 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with exceptional service and a warm atmosphere at Tamarind Restaurant in Northampton.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
It's A Gift
7.3 km
A friendly local gift shop in Kingsthorpe offering household essentials and unique presents with welcoming service.
margo&evie
8.9 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and handcrafted curiosities at margo&evie, a charming independent shop in Northamptonshire’s Heart of the Shires.
Heart of The Shires
8.9 km
Discover a charming Victorian courtyard shopping village with unique independent retailers and a relaxed countryside atmosphere.
House Of Carillon
8.9 km
Discover elegant ladies' designer fashion in a charming Victorian courtyard boutique at Heart of the Shires Shopping Village.
Beehive Gifts
8.9 km
Discover unique gifts and heartfelt treasures at Beehive Gifts, Northampton’s charming boutique for all occasions.
Its a Gift
9.3 km
Explore Its a Gift in Northampton for a unique selection of presents and cards that capture the spirit of thoughtful gifting.
Bias Gift Shop
9.4 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish accessories, and charming homewares at Bias Gift Shop in Northampton’s Grosvenor Centre.
Next Home
9.5 km
A stylish and practical department store in Northampton offering fashion, footwear, and homewares under one roof with moderate prices.
Singh & Smile
9.5 km
Discover personalized gifts, aromatherapy, and wellness treasures at Singh & Smile, Northampton’s charming boutique for joyful living.
St James Retail Park
9.5 km
Convenient shopping with free parking and a variety of stores in Northampton’s St James Retail Park.
Circus
9.5 km
Contemporary men’s and women’s clothing store in Northampton’s lively Drapery shopping street.
Next Outlet Northampton
9.5 km
Affordable fashion and homeware at Next Outlet Northampton, nestled in the vibrant St James Retail Park.
The Works
9.6 km
Discover affordable creativity at The Works Northampton, your go-to spot for books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of the city.
MOOCH on St Giles Street
9.7 km
Discover unique gifts and charming home accessories with friendly service at MOOCH on St Giles Street, Northampton’s beloved independent boutique.
32 The Guild
9.8 km
Discover unique contemporary ladieswear and artisanal fashion in Northampton’s vibrant cultural quarter at 32 The Guild.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Windhover
5.1 km
A cozy and charming pub in Chapel Brampton offering hearty meals, warm hospitality, and a relaxed village atmosphere.
The Saracen's Head
5.2 km
A historic and welcoming British pub in Little Brington offering hearty fare, friendly service, and a cozy village atmosphere.
Fox & Hounds
7.0 km
A charming British pub in Northampton offering hearty meals, stylish ambiance, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Sevens
8.2 km
A vibrant Northampton pub blending sports enthusiasm with quality food and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Edge of Town
9.1 km
Lively and affordable bar with friendly service, known for the best bar maid in town, open late in the heart of Northampton.
White Elephant
9.3 km
Historic Northampton pub with a lively community vibe, great ales, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all, including your four-legged friends.
The Bear
9.3 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Bear, a beloved pub in Northampton, offering delicious food and drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
The Charles Bradlaugh
9.4 km
A stylish, welcoming pub in Northampton offering homemade food, lively events, and a vibrant community atmosphere in a historic setting.
The Lamplighter
9.4 km
A welcoming Northampton pub renowned for its real ales, hearty British fare, and vibrant community spirit.
The Picturedrome
9.5 km
Lively Northampton bar and live music venue blending great food, friendly service, and vibrant entertainment in a spacious, accessible setting.
Zapato Lounge
9.5 km
A vibrant, inclusive lounge in Northampton offering diverse British and vegan cuisine in a welcoming, family- and dog-friendly setting.
Shipmans
9.5 km
Historic Shipmans pub in Northampton offers timeless charm, premium drinks, and a refined dining experience in the town centre.
Old Bank
9.6 km
A vibrant, spacious pub in Northampton’s St Giles' Square, offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a lively social atmosphere.
The Fish
9.6 km
A vibrant Northampton pub blending traditional British fare, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Fish Street.
The Black Prince
9.7 km
A lively Northampton pub blending historic charm with vibrant live music and a welcoming beer garden for all to enjoy.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Boston
9.4 km
Northampton’s welcoming LGBTQ+ nightclub and pub, The Boston offers lively music, themed nights, and a vibrant inclusive atmosphere.
Club43
9.5 km
Northampton’s vibrant underground nightclub offering top electronic acts and a soulful, energetic nightlife experience.
Elysium
9.5 km
Northampton’s premier late-night nightclub for house, bass, and tech house music, famed as the city’s official after-party hotspot.
The Platform
9.6 km
Northampton’s vibrant nightclub and bar blending historic charm with lively music, drinks, and student-friendly events.
NB's
9.7 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with NB's lively clubbing atmosphere, multiple rooms, and sociable outdoor bar area.
Stereo Bar and Club
9.7 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with eclectic music, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Stereo Bar and Club.
Club Bar X
9.9 km
Lively basement nightclub on Wellingborough Road, Northampton, offering late-night music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene Thursday to Saturday.
Club 145
9.9 km
Energetic nightclub on Wellingborough Road offering lively music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of Northampton.
Garudaa
33.3 km
A spacious, welcoming gentlemen’s club in Milton Keynes offering VIP areas, game rooms, and late-night entertainment in a relaxed, darkly lit setting.
Neon
37.4 km
Leamington Spa’s largest nightclub, Neon delivers vibrant music, themed nights, and a dynamic party atmosphere every Friday until dawn.
Smack
37.6 km
Leamington Spa’s energetic and affordable two-floor nightclub with a storied past and a lively, if sometimes challenging, atmosphere.
Altoria Nightclub
37.6 km
Experience Leamington Spa’s vibrant nightlife at Altoria Nightclub with diverse music floors, VIP service, and a unique rooftop terrace open till 3 am.
The Basement
37.8 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
TRUTH Leicester
37.9 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at TRUTH, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy in the city centre’s entertainment heart.
Waikiki Nightclub
38.1 km
Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
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
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly