Hedingham Castle

Hedingham Castle, surrounded by ancient ramparts and Medieval parkland, overlooks a sea of seemingly endless countryside on the Essex-Suffolk border. This 900-year-old estate, filled with woodlands and beautiful landscaped gardens, is just over an hour from London.

Privately owned by the Lindsay Family, Hedingham Castle is a timeless and romantic haven and is among the best preserved Norman keeps in England. The keep, combined with other historic properties on the estate, offers a unique exclusive-use experience for up to 23 guests.

Exclusive Use

Exclusive use of Hedingham Estate gives you private access to three historic properties, including the castle keep itself, as your very own country retreat to enjoy with family and friends. The varied accommodation makes Hedingham ideal for celebrating that special occasion or multi-generational holiday and the close proximity to London makes it easy to arrange travel for guests coming from far and wide.

Accommodation

The estate offers accommodation for up to 23 guests in total, comprising The Royal Chamber (one room in the castle keep itself), Medieval Lodge and Garden Cottage.

The Royal Chamber – sleeps 2 guests

A large room set within the castle keep on the very top floor of the building. It features an ornate wooden four-poster, super-king bed with cascading drapes. The room’s interior is a blend of regal reds and golds, lit by two elegant chandeliers and its character is defined by exposed stone walls and wooden rafters. From its hilltop position, The Royal Chamber commands glorious countryside views from authentic alcove castle windows, from which you can see for miles.

Medieval Lodge & Garden Lodge – sleeps 21 guests in 11 bedrooms

Quite a contrast to the castle keep, these cosy cottage-style lodges still embody an air of prestige. Situated within the magnificent estate and just a stone's throw from the castle, both provide a relaxing haven.

The Medieval Lodge can accommodate 17 guests across 8 bedrooms whilst Garden Lodge can sleep up to 4 guests in 3 bedrooms.

Fresh white walls, exposed brickwork and original wooden beams set the tone for the interiors. Here, with family and friends, guests can cosy up, stretch their legs on a scenic walk and enjoy a BBQ on the terrace; all whilst soaking up the heritage of the estate.

Inside the Castle

The interiors in the castle are truly authentic with all rooms reached via a spiral staircase. Settle into the castle and you will think you have gone back in time.

The Banqueting Hall

Across the lower floors is the magnificent and dramatic Banqueting Hall. With its imposing double height archway, the hall becomes the perfect space for a formal celebration or feast.

During the day, sunlight spills through arched windows whilst the evening brings an unmatchable atmosphere to add enchantment to your event.

Garrison Floor and Bar

Beneath the Banqueting Hall is the Garrison Floor. This houses its very own bar, cosy and comfy alcove seating and toilets, culminating in the perfect dancing and party space - it even has disco lighting on tap! Your very own regal nightclub.

Tapestry Room

On the ground floor is the atmospheric Tapestry Room, an enchanting and versatile space. Theatrical low-hanging wrought iron chandeliers and wall-mounted flame lighting ignites an ambience which can lend itself equally to a variety of activities, from an evening soirée to a chilled yoga class or even an intimate gig.

Dining

Hedingham Castle can provide full catering and bespoke menus. Dinners can take place in the Banqueting Hall within the castle. The team at Hedingham would also be happy to recommend traditional pubs and eateries in the local area.

History

Hedingham Castle is privately owned by the Lindsay Family, descendants of the Earl of Oxford, who built it originally, and has a significant, eclectic history spanning 900 years. It has seen Normans, Kings and Queens through its existence and has played a part in historic sieges, World Wars and the Magna Carta. As the custodians change the history continues; Hedingham is filled with tales and stories, you only have to look…

Gardens/Estate

The grounds at Hedingham Castle comprise classical sweeping landscapes and romantic gardens, full of secret spaces. Whether you have just arrived down the tree-lined drive, are on the motte and bailey looking out over Essex farmland or wandering through the lime avenue by the lake, there is a tangible sense of history. The changing seasons are very apparent in the grounds, adding to the sense of adventure and wonder; bluebells and daffodils preside in spring; rhododendrons and tuneful birds welcome the summer whilst autumn’s colour is dazzling and winter brings its famed collection of snowdrops.

Prices