Chenies Manor was built in the 15th and 16 centuries.
The mellow red brick manor house has a fortified tower. The house was built by the same group of men who enlarged Hampton Court for Henry VIII.
The house has stepped gables and some of the finest examples of Tudor chimneys in England. Henry VIII brought two of his wives here and Elizabeth I slept here on several occasions.
The rooms have many different styles. Queen Elizabeth's Room is oak floored and has 16th century tapestries and furniture. The stone parlour contains 17th century furniture and is believed to be the Great Hall of the 15th century house. The Blue Bedroom has a Chippendale four-poster bed and other 18th century furniture. The dining room was modernised in the 19th century and has contemporary furnishings.
Chenies Manor also has a secret chamber and hiding places and a tunnel leading out into the woods. There are collections of tapestries and antique dolls.
The house is surrounded by magnificent gardens. There are herbaceous borders, a white garden, a Tudor sunken garden, a physic garden displaying a collection of medicinal and culinary herbs, two mazes, a fountain court and a parterre. There is also a Victorian style kitchen garden.
Special exhibitions are held and many unusual plants available for sale.
Chenies Manor Opening Times
2008:2 Apr-30 Oct: Wed & Thur 14:00-17.00; Bank Holiday Mon: 14:00-17:00.
Tel: 01494 762888 Chenies Manor Website
