Visit Audley End House and Saffron Walden: The Ultimate Travel Guide

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

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

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.

 Other Places to See Near Audley End House

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

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.