Hindringham Hall: A Storybook Moated Manor in Norfolk
Hindringham Hall, a Grade II* listed gem nestled in the picturesque countryside of Norfolk, is a stunning example of Tudor architecture. This delightful moated manor house is straight out of a storybook, featuring a medieval moat, fishponds, a working walled vegetable garden, and beautifully manicured formal and informal borders. The Hall was built by Martin Hastings, a courtier in the service of Henry Fitzroy, 1st Duke of Richmond and Somerset, who was the illegitimate son of Henry VIII and his mistress Elizabeth Blount. The Hall’s current owners have meticulously developed the gardens over the past 30 years, and during this period, Roman and medieval pottery has been discovered on the site. The best time to visit Hindringham Hall is from spring through autumn when the gardens are in full bloom.
Why You Should Visit Hindringham Hall
Visiting Hindringham Hall is like stepping back in time. The tranquil and picturesque setting, combined with the rich history and well-preserved architecture, makes it a must-visit destination. The gardens offer a serene retreat, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of reflection. Here are five places not to be missed when visiting Hindringham Hall:
- The Medieval Moat: Dating back to around 1150, the scenic moat, which covers one acre, adds to the storybook charm of the Hall. It is connected to the River Stiffkey, which was diverted to create the moat.
- The Stone Bridge: Built over the moat, this bridge dates back to 1538 and offers a picturesque entryway to the Hall.
- The Tudor Hall: Constructed with stone taken from local monasteries suppressed by Henry VIII, the Hall features a two-story porch of flint and brick, exposed timber beams, inglenook fireplaces, and tall windows with old glass panes.
- The Gardens: The meticulously developed gardens include a working walled vegetable garden, formal and informal borders, and scenic fishponds. The gardens were shortlisted for the Historic Houses 2020 Garden of the Year award.
- The Tea Room: Enjoy a delightful tea room experience with drinks and cake served from pretty bone china. The tables are set outside if the weather is favorable, offering a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
FAQ: Common Questions about Hindringham Hall
- What is the history of Hindringham Hall?
- Hindringham Hall was built by Martin Hastings in the service of Henry Fitzroy, the illegitimate son of Henry VIII. The Hall features a medieval moat and fishponds and has been meticulously developed by the current owners over the past 30 years.
- What can I expect from the gardens?
- The gardens are a highlight of Hindringham Hall, featuring a working walled vegetable garden, formal and informal borders, and scenic fishponds. The gardens were shortlisted for the Historic Houses 2020 Garden of the Year award.
- Is the Hall open to the public?
- Yes, the gardens are open regularly from spring through autumn, and the Hall itself is open on a few specified dates each year.
- What are the architectural features of the Hall?
- The Hall features a two-story porch of flint and brick, exposed timber beams, inglenook fireplaces, and tall windows with old glass panes. The stone bridge and moat date back to 1538 and 1150, respectively.
- Are there any nearby attractions?
- Yes, just around the corner from Hindringham Hall is a beautiful listed building, a Parish church dedicated to St Martin. Dating from the 14th century, it stands behind a long line of red-roofed flint cottages and features a font decorated with a Crucifixion, Instruments of the Passion, and a Holy Trinity symbol, along with heraldic shields.
Visitor Reviews
Hindringham Hall has received rave reviews on TripAdvisor. A recent visitor commented, “We spent about 90 minutes wandering through the gardens and round the ponds which are wonderful. The hosts were friendly and chatty making us feel at home in their home, the tea room is definitely worth a visit too.” Another visitor added, “Tasty cake & drink to finish. Last minute decision but well worth the drive from Great Yarmouth.”
How to Visit
To visit Hindringham Hall and its enchanting gardens, head to 36 The St, Hindringham, Fakenham NR21 0PR. Enjoy the peaceful beauty and rich history of this hidden gem in Norfolk.
