Essex - Audley End House
Step into a real-life period drama at Audley End House
Explore life above and below stairs at this decadent 17th century country house in Saffron Walden, Essex.
Built on the site of a Benedictine monastery, Audley End House and Gardens is a palace in all but name and is considered to be one of the finest Jacobean houses in England.
Although largely Jacobean, the house has Victorian features and you really get a feel for what life would have been like above and below stairs at that time.
Step inside the Mansion House and admire the interiors of one of the largest and most opulent houses in Jacobean England. Immerse yourself in the history as you wander through the impressive great hall, magnificent state apartments, intimate dressing rooms and 18th century gothic-style chapel. You can even take a seat and relax in our library or play your favourite piece on our piano.
Once you've explored the servant's wing, gallop over to say hello to the resident horses in the stable block, and visit the organic Kitchen Garden where there are over 120 varieties of apples, 40 types of pears, and 60 varieties of tomato.
There’s plenty for families to do, with restored parterre gardens, acres of ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland, a café and shop, children's playground, working stables, Victorian nursery, and action-packed special events held throughout the year.
And, of course, no visit to an English country house is complete without a visit to the tea room to grab a cup of tea, a piece of cake or a buttered scone.
