The estate was given to Lord Audley by Henry VIII after he had dissolved the abbey which stood on the site, his descendant Thomas Howard, Lord Treasurer and Ist Earl of Suffolk commissioned the immense Jacobean house.
When it was built in 1614 it was the largest house in England, and James I joked that it was too big for a king but not for a Lord Treasurer! Nevertheless, Audley End became a royal residence in 1669 when it was purchased by Charles II. It was also used by James II and William and Mary.
By the 18th century, as the full purchase price had still not be paid, the property reverted to the 5th Earl of Suffolk.
During the 18th century two thirds of the house was demolished to make it more manageable and by the 1750s it was reduced to the size seen today.
Vanbrugh was employed to remodel the building and fortunately he left the exterior of the house with its balustraded and turreted roof intact. What remains is a Jacobean mansion with the original hall and fine plaster ceilings.
Most of the interior reflects a later period, the 1760's, when Robert Adam was engaged to remodel it. Many of the rooms have been restored to his original designs.
Surrounding the house and gardens is a park landscaped by 'Capability' Brown from around 1760. The park is adorned with monuments and temples. Lady Portsmouth's Column, a temple and the beautiful bridge over the River Cam were all designed by Robert Adam.
The highlight of the gardens is the 19th century parterre, designed by William Sawney Gilbern, which been restored. There are over 100 beds in the parterre, all displaying plants known in the 1830s including iris, astrantia and peonies. Other features include the rose garden with fragrant old roses and a rock garden.
Note:Closed to the public on Thursday 15th May 2008
Audley End House Opening Times2008: 21 Mar-30 Sep: 11:00-17:00 (closes 15:30 Sat) Wed-Sun. Oct:11:00-16:00 Wed-Sun. Gardens:21Mar-30Sep:10:00-18:00 Wed-Sun. Oct & Mar:10:00-17:00 Wed-Sun. Nov-23 Dec & Feb: 10:00-16:00 Wed-Sun.Closed 24 Dec-31 Jan. Last entry is 1 hour before close.
Tel: 01799 522399 (info line) Audley End House Website
