Hedingham Castle

Walk the tranquil castle grounds, inner bailey and Tudor bridge

Hedingham castle grounds
 
click to enlarge
The castle and the Queen Anne house (private) are surrounded by well-kept grounds and woods. At the head of the beautiful lake is a pretty 18th century dovecote in the Bog Garden which was planted in the 1920s and contains camellias and azaleas, water-loving plants and the huge leaves of giant gunnera.

There are delightful walks around the lake and through the shady woodland under the steep ramparts of the castle defences. This Valley Walk is famous for its spectacular snowdrops in February followed by a carpet of bluebells in May, and the castle's peaceful grounds and many fine trees are home to a large variety of birds and animals.

Blue bells at Hedingham castle

 
Castle bridge

To reach the castle you will cross the Tudor bridge which spans the dry moat. This was built to replace the drawbridge by the 13th Earl of Oxford in 1496. The Inner Bailey, the grassy area around the castle, provides a natural amphitheatre for spectators to watch the jousting and other events held during the summer months.

There is a tranquil lakeside picnic area and ample free parking.

The grounds are open for Snowdrop Walks on February 8th, 15th and 22nd £4.50 per adult includes a glass of mulled wine, children free.

Please keep dogs on a lead and do not bring them into the castle.

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