Helmingham Hall

The ancient house is the home of the Tollemache family and the drawbridge is still pulled up at night as it has been for the last 400 years.  The garden, one of the finest in England, is full of interest throughout the year but it is particularly beautiful when the musk roses are in bloom. 

These were planted by the present Lord Tollemache's mother in 1965 and the collection is still being increased.  The roses grow in wide borders beneath the walls and are underplanted with London Pride and edged with Hidcote lavender.  

In the walled garden there are eight beds divided by grass paths and magnificent arched tunnels covered with sweet peas, gourds and runner beans.  Old varieties of climbing roses are supported by wires.  A splendid double herbaceous border runs down the centre.  The kitchen garden is immaculate.  Between the walls and the moat are long bed with peonies, tulips, iris and roses.  The border to the west has pink, white and silver flowers that fill the air with scent on summer evenings.

In 1982 Lady Tollemache, with advice from Lady Salisbury, designed a Tudor garden to the east of the house.  A herb and knot garden were created with low hedges of lavender and box.  The beds contain plants known to have been grown in England before 1750.  A bed of golden thyme is graced by a statue of Flora.   Within the formal structure there is plenty of informal planting with old roses, violas, campanulas and white foxgloves.  The Tudor garden is enclosed by a yew hedge and paths lead out to the old stables and the Coach House were refreshments are served.

Large herds of red and fallow deer graze in the park, as their ancestors have done since 1600.  Some of the oak trees here are thought to be 900 years old.    

Opening Times

Garden Features

River side small garden.