Kentwell - a romantic, completely moated, mellow redbrick Tudor mansion in a tranquil parkland setting
"It has taken 30 years to go back 500 years"
In 1970 Kentwell stood neglected and no-one wanted it. Patrick Phillips then bought it and ever since with his family has sought to bring Kentwell back to life. Their works have taken part of the House and its 15th Century Service Building back to the 16th Century. Elsewhere changes reflect their own preferences.
Patrick and Judith, his wife, welcome you to visit their fascinating house. Take a glimpse into both the past and present of this unique family home. You can do this whenever you come but especially if you visit during one of the award-winning Re-Creations of Tudor or WWII Everyday Life. Kentwell pioneered domestic Living History Events in the UK.and nearly 30 years on the Re-Creations are as magical as ever.
There is always something happening at Kentwell. Please see our website for an up-to-date list of our events over the summer.
A Family Home
Kentwell is not a ‘stately home’ but very much a lived-in and loved family home, something it has been for over 500 years. The public see much of the House, including rooms used by the family - usually with obvious signs of use.
It is also a project - for 35 years now a non-stop effort to save this beautiful House, re-create its Gardens and form a traditional style Farm. In this sense it is very much a House of today, even if some of the works have accentuiated the House's Tudor origins.
We hope visitors will feel more like guests in a private home, rather than visitors to a public institution.
Timeless Charm & Tranquillity
Over 150 years ago it was written that 'visitors emerging from the Avenue on a summery evening cannot withold admiration when they see the manifold beauties of Kentwell Hall'. This remains true today.
Another writer, born at Kentwell over 100 years ago, described it as "...a little great house of magical beauty..." and "...as a paradise on earth..." Many visitors today share that feeling.
More about...
Surprises found around Kentwell - Kentwell is full of Intriguing features added in recent years.
Award Winning Recreations of Tudor Life and WW11
Kentwell's Re-Creations of Tudor Domestic Life are the most outstanding evocation of the Tudor Age in the UK. The most authentic Tudors in a most authentic Tudor setting.
Kentwell's WWII Re-Creations are a rare exercise in nostalgia showing how WWII impacted upon civilian life.
The Extensive Gardens at Kentwell - - dominated by moats & mellow brickwork. Nearly always something new or in progress.
The Rare Breeds Traditional Farm - A real farm set amidst ancient and newly formed oak framed buildings. Enjoyed by all ages especially in the early Spring when the animals are still in for winter.
Interactive Map - This new feature lets you look around the grounds at Kentwell and displays interesting features at the touch of your cursor.
Ghost Tales - There are many ghost stories relating to Kentwell.
The History of the House - Kentwell has a fascinating history, and has been home to many interesting families over 500 years.
Tour of the House - Guides you round the Hall and its original service building, the Moat House.
The Family and the House's Restoration - Kentwell stood much neglected in 1970. This tells how it is being brought it back to life.
