Gardens & Parkland
Standing majestically in its own parklands, Kentwell Hall is surrounded by spectacular moat. Guests are welcome to wander through the peaceful and romantic formal and informal gardens and parklands.
The Gardens at Kentwell reflect how many people may imagine an old-fashioned Country House Garden.
This may be because the gardens have evolved under different owners over the centuries. Surviving elements of the 16th Century can be seen in the moats and the buildings. The Walled Garden and its espaliered fruit trees (over 60 varieties of apple and as many of pear) and the Lime Avenue approach road are vestiges from the 17th Century. Our huge yew trees, the Sunken Garden (a dry moat), the Ice House and the vast lawns date from the 18th Century. The 19th Century brought the majestic cedar trees - a group without equal anywhere! Our striking acers and the Shrubbery are early 20th Century, while the later years of the 20th Century brought numerous works of restoration, landscaping, topiary, new tree plantings and some unexpected surprises added by the Phillips family.
Stroll around the Gardens in an ever-changing environment, never far from views of the water or the mellow red brick of the House and other buildings.
The gardens are a haven of peace where you can explore different journeys and find something unexpected; or just sit and admire a beautiful view.
Zen Master Thich Nhat Hahn has helped us on providing unique seating for our visitors. Positioned in the most tranquil and thoughtful settings to encourage visitors to relax for a while, remain in the moment and enhance their wellbeing.
Season by Season
Every season brings out the best in Kentwell. From the magnificent cedars and plentiful clipped yews to the fine avenues
In early spring, see carpets of lovely snowdrops in the woods.
In late spring, swathes of massed daffodils can be seen around the Garden and on the banks of the Moat.
In early summer, discover cowslips everywhere, a stunning bluebell walk for the energetic and everything at its best in the Potager and Herb Garden.
In mid-summer, wildflowers including massed pyramid orchids and roses, with a stunning display bedecking the main Moat.
In autumn, stunning ancient acers provide rich autumnal colour in beautiful yellows, oranges and reds.
A traditional working farm
Set in a vast Suffolk parkland, our farm, with its timber-framed buildings, is home to Kentwell’s rare breed farm animals. Explore our traditional working farm which we run in an ethical and environmentally friendly way. Make time to meet our rare breed pigs, sheep, cows and horses, and don’t forget to say hello to Sylvie and Saffy, our miniature Shetland ponies.
There’s something for everyone to enjoy here in the gardens and farmyard at Kentwell Hall; wrap up warm and play in the woodland, explore the water features, or simply find a quiet seat and relax in the sun.