Helmingham Hall and its moat

Helmingham Hall: Visiting the Gardens of Suffolk’s Moated Manor House

By Carl Scott

From mid-fifteenth century beginnings, Helmingham Hall in Suffolk is a Grade I Listed building that opens its gardens to the public, making it a fantastic destination to visit when staying at one of our Barns and Barges for rent. Surrounded by a moat extending just over 60 feet, the house, which is not accessible to the public, was initially constructed in 1510 before undergoing extensive alterations in the 18th century. 

Whilst there can be no doubt that the house makes a striking impression, the gardens are every bit as exciting. Open from May to September, there is a range of semi-formal mixed gardens, a highly picturesque rose garden, an orchard, a wall garden, and more historic spaces like an allee and parterre. Pottering around this pastoral scene are herds of red and fallow deer that call the 400-acres beyond the gardens their home. 

Such remarkable gardens are no simple accident of history and are in fact the product of Lady Alexandra Tollemache, an esteemed garden designer who operates under the alias Xa Tollemache. Tending to various other outstanding areas of beauty like the Millennium Garden at Castle Hill in Devon and Dunbeath Castle in Scotland, Lady Tollemache supervises the gardens at Helmingham to ensure their lasting beauty.

With free and ample parking available, guests at Woodfarm Barns are able to access the gardens and tea rooms within just ten minutes drive. To begin planning your trip to this destination now, be sure to take a look at the availability of our Barns for rent in Suffolk.

Reasons to Stay at Woodfarm, Suffolk

We happen to think what we have on offer is pretty bloomin' good. However, we thought you might like a bunch of reasons to stay, other than we think you should!

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Dogs stay FREE

We don't just tolerate dogs, we welcome them! We've built our reputation on this, and we're proud of it!

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Free Doggy treats

Dog bowls, treats and Dog towels. Our furry friends even get Woodfarm branded poop bag holders!

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Over 1,000 5 star reviews

Well in excess of 1,000 Five Star Tripadvisor, Facebook & Google Reviews. Over 25% of our guests come back!

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Brilliant beaches

Suffolk has an incredible Heritage Coast, with great beaches, all in easy reach of us.

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Dog exercise meadow

Pawesome, fully-enclosed two acre Pooch Paddock for your Dogs to go bonkers and make new friends in. Barns only.

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Multi-awards

Visit England Gold Awards coming out of our ears, as well as their coveted ROSE Award for Service Excellence.

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Private Hot Tubs

Private Hot tubs with seven of our eight Barns and Cottages. The ultimate in relaxation, just because you're worth it. Barns only.

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Stunning Countryside

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Yes, plural. Two AONB's on our doorstep! Suffolk Coast & Heaths, and Dedham Vale.

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River Walks

Stunning river walks directly from your gangplank on either Barge! Wildlife and breathtaking scenery in abundance.

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