UNLIMITED ACCESS TO OVER 400 HISTORIC PLACES
Live and breathe the story of England at royal castles, historic gardens, forts & defences, world-famous prehistoric sites and many others.
Admire the interiors of what was once one of the largest and most opulent houses in Jacobean England. Wander around our spacious grounds and admire the glorious gardens designed by Capability Brown, including our beautifully restored parterre and organic kitchen gardens. Take a stroll over to the stable yard and meet our friendly horses before topping up your energy with a delicious treat in the cafe.
On selected weekends during 1 May to 25 September we will be bringing the story of the House and Service Wing to life with live interpretation in the open air.
Meet the servants as they step out of their stuffy rooms and into the clean fresh air while the Lord and Lady of the house are away on holiday. Meet various characters throughout the weekends including Mr Vert the head gardener busily tending to his Lordship’s garden and John Barker, the Groom, as he spends time with his beloved horses in the stables.
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Geoffrey de Mandeville, 1st Earl of Essex, founds a Benedictine priory at Walden, which becomes Walden Abbey in 1190.
The abbey is suppressed by Henry VIII and granted to Sir Thomas Audley, Lord Chancellor. He transforms the abbey buildings into a mansion.
Find out more about Audley End's history