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| Image: Wikimedia Commons |
Built on the site of a Benedictine abbey, Audley
End House was at one time the home of the first Earl of Suffolk. The
original house, with the two large courtyards, was reputed to be comparable to
Hampton Court in its splendor and magnitude. Although much of the building was
demolished due to the lack of resources of subsequent earls, it remains one of
the most impressive Jacobean mansions in England. The palatial interiors of the
state rooms which remain are particularly magnificent. These include the alcove
room, saloon and drawing room, and the exquisite state bed to be found in the Neville
Room is still hung with the original embroidered drapes. The house also has a
large collection of stuffed birds.
In the rolling parkland grounds are several elegant
outbuildings, some of which were designed by Robert Adam. Amongst these are an
icehouse, a circular temple and the Springwood Column. A miniature railway runs
in the grounds and over the river Cam.
How to Reach Audley
End House?
Traveling by train, the nearest train station to Audley End
House is Audley End, about a mile and a quarter away, which is served by trains
from London Liverpool Street, Cambridge, Birmingham New Street and Stansted
Airport. Outside the train station is a footpath that goes straight along the
road all the way to Audley End House. You can also take the bus on the designated
bus stop or hail a taxi for quicker access to the house.
Royal Connections
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| Audley End, 1880s via Wikimedia Commons |
Queen Elizabeth I twice visited Audley End while it was still in the possession of the Duke of Norfolk. Her first visit was in 1571 and she made her second visit in 1578. According to Charlie Proctor, she liked to make ‘progresses’ around the country, to have a look at her people and also to keep an eye on her subjects were rich and owned grand houses. She wanted to see to it that her visit would cause them financial ruin since accommodating her and her court entire court entailed huge financial setbacks to the host! That was how she made sure that not one of her subjects would be richer that her!
Elizabeth’s successor, King James I, also visited Audley End
twice in 1614. In 1603, shortly after becoming King, he made Baron Howard as
the First Earl of Suffolk, and appointed him Lord Chamberlain of the household
and, in 1614, Lord Treasurer. On James I’s visit to Audley End, he was
stupefied to found Audley End a residence too grand for a king “but might suit
a Lord Treasurer!” Suffolk was must have enjoyed his new position and two years
later, he was found guilty of embezzling the crown coffers. He escaped death
but was dismissed from the court and heavily fined. The disgraced noble
retreated to to Audley End. At the time of his death, the third earl was forced
to sell other property to pay his family’s debts.
The house was spared from destruction during the regime of
Oliver Cromwell. During the restoration, King Charles II bought the property
for £50,000, making it his home when attending the races at Newmarket. The
property reverted back to the Suffolks in 1701. Over the next century, parts of
the house were gradually demolished until it was reduced to its current size.
Audley End House
Today
Audley End House is still a grand , stately home that
features architectural styles and varied collections. While it remains the
family seat of the Lords Braybrooke, the house is managed by the English
Heritage.
What to See and Do in
Audley End House
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| A reenactment of what happens below stairs at the turn of the century in Audley House End. Image: Wikimedia Commons |
A trip to Audley End House will definitely pack your day!
The Mansion
Visit Audley End House’s impressive great hall, magnificent state apartments, intimate dressing rooms, libraries and 18th century gothic-style chapel is a step back into Jacobean England. The House’s extensive collections of works of art will definitely amaze you. The state bed, for example, is a must-see. It is one of the country’s few surviving late 18th-century beds commissioned in anticipation of King George III’s visit in 1794. There is also a natural history collection and learning about its diverse history is enriching. Don’t forget to avail the guided tour of the Robert Adam-designed suite of eight rooms on the ground floor .
Nursery and Coal
Gallery
The Nursery and Coal Gallery provides a fascinating glimpse
into the lives of the eight Braybrooke children who lived in this nursery suite
while attended by their governess, nursemaids and tutors. The suite was restored
to its actual 1830s look, complete with toys and furniture used during the era.
The coal gallery, meanwhile, relives the difficulty life led
by Victorian servants. To guests an insight, bunkers are filled with coal,
cupboards stocked with soap and candles, and soundscapes are used to recreate
the hustle and bustle of the servants' day-to-day routines.
1880s Service Wing
What was in the life of a country house servant like at the
turn of the century? The 1880s Service Wing brings guests to sights, sounds and
smells of life in the service wing, to a world of hierarchy, discipline, long
hours and hard labour. Wander off to
this carefully-restored world 'below stairs,' a world that the masters upstairs
never dared visit.
The Gardens
Audley End House’s garden is one of the top attractions of Safron
Walden. The works of two of 18th century’s most famous and influential
designers are stamped in the property. Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown gave the
landscape its sweeping, extensive views, serpentine lake and more natural
planting. Robert Adam, on the other hand, gave his lasting contribution with
the elegant garden buildings, like the bridge over the River Cam.
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| Bridge End Garden. Image: Flickr |
Audley End House is Saffron Walden’s top attraction. It’s
rich history, link to the British monarchy and amazing gardens make it a must
visit! Don’t forget to stop by, too, on other sites and historic places in
Saffron Walden to complete your visit in the area. There are other interesting places to visit
near Audley End House, so a well-planned trip will surely give you an amazing
opportunity to explore Saffron Walden area.
Audley End Miniature
Railway
This miniature Railway in Essex enjoyable day out for the
whole family, full of innocent fun and imagination based near Saffron Walden,
Essex is an enjoyable place to spend a day out with the family. Explore the
Enchanted Fairy and Elf Walk and don’t forget to enjoy the miniature train
ride! Visit the website for
more details.
Bridge End Garden
The Bridge End Garden was created by a prominent local and consists
of a number of interlinked, room-like compartments each with a unique design and
landscape function. These theme gardens are linked with paths and carefully
planned vistas providing surprises at every turn. This website provides more interesting information about the garden.
Saffron Walden Museum
The Museum is located in an1835 brick purpose-built building
on the grounds of Walden Castle, a 12th century ruined keep. The collection
boasts of a small but diverse collection acquired predominantly in the 19th
century. Get more information about the Saffron Walden Museum here
Fry Art Gallery
The Fry Art Gallery displays work of North West Essex locals
and residents who gained prominence during the twentieth century and beyond. Work
by the Great Bardfield Artists, including Edward Bawden and Eric Ravilious are
displayed in the gallery. For more details, visit the website.
Address—Castle Street, Saffron Walden CB10 1BD, England. Telephone—+41799
513779.
The Saffron Walden
Gallery
This contemporary art gallery displays original art, ceramics,
sculpture and glassware. The gallery’s website offers more helpful information . Address—77A High
Street, Saffron Walden CB10 1DZ. Telephone—+44 1799 524700
Church Street Gallery
The Church Street Gallery is an independent art gallery where
superb collection of Original British Printmakers works and affordable
Contemporary paintings are showcased. For more details, visit the gallery’s website. Address—17 Church Street, Saffron Walden CB10 1JW,
England. Telephone—+44 1799 522947.
Walden Castle
This medieval castle was built during the Anarchy of the
12th century and only ruins of the core structure remains today. Guests are
welcome all year round.
St. Mary's Church
The largest non-cathedral church in Essex, it was built between
the 10th and 13th century. Check the website for details.
Address—Church Path, Saffron Walden CB10 1JP. Telephone—+44 1799 506024.
Where to Stay Near
Audley End House
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| One of the rooms in Saffron Suite and Kitchen. Image: Booking.com |
A day in Audley End House is surely exhausting and you will
want to relax on comfortable cozy bed in a cozy bed and breakfast. Saffron
Walden and other nearby areas just have the right place to make you feel at
home. If you are planning to stay overnight near Audley End House? Here are
five accommodations worth checking out.
Saffron Suite and
Kitchen
8-12 High Street, Saffron Walden, CB10 1AZ, United Kingdom
This 16th century hotel offers guests with individual
bedrooms complete with Freeview TV and CD players. Every room has tea and
coffee facilities, desks and hairdryers. A comfortable lounge with an open fire
awaits visitors eager for some homey warmth. Check the hotel here.
The Cross Keys
32 High Street, Saffron Walden, CB10 1AX, United Kingdom
Each room comes with a desk, television set, and closet. Free
WiFi is also available. The continental breakfast offers a hearty meal to start
your day. Check the hotel here.
Queenshead Inn
High Street, Littlebury, Saffron Walden, CB11 4TD, United
Kingdom
This family-operated inn located in the small medieval
village of Littlebury gives travelers a relaxing respite after a day of
driving. There is free on-site parking and each room comes with attached
bathroom with free WiFi. The restaurant offers fresh, home-cooked meal. Check
the hotel here.
The Crown House Inn
London Road, Great Chesterford, CB10 1NY, United Kingdom
This former Georgian coaching inn located in the picturesque
village of Great Chesterford features a lovely garden and offers free parking.
Rooms are comfortably set with seating areas with TVs and work desks. Hairdryers
and tea/coffee-making facilities are also at hand. Free WiFi is available to
all guests. English breakfast is served every morning. Check the hotel here.
The Red Lion Hinxton
32 High St, Hinxton, CB10 1QY, United Kingdom
Located in a small village south of Cambridge, this charming
16th-century freehouse has a restaurant, an atmospheric bar, and new-build
rooms with private bathrooms with free internet. Don’t miss to explore the
area. The walled garden overlooked by a dovecote and village church is worth
visiting. Check the hotel here.
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