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Book Tickets Online
About
Hedingham Castle is the most iconic building in Essex. Built 900 years ago, the ancient defensive landscape of the motte and bailey castle, along with the Norman keep form an impressive heritage treasure that is well worth a visit. Now inhabited by the Lindsay family, who are descended from the de Veres, the Earls of Oxford, who built the castle, it has the unique charm for visitors that goes with private ownership. Surrounded by the formal gardens and undulating woods and stunning lake, it is a place to explore, picnic, and create your own adventure. Visitors can discover history and relax with the only limitation being their own imagination. Never has history been such fun.
Once you have been to the keep, which is the best preserved in the country, and admired the widest Norman arch in domestic architecture in Western Europe, spill out into the grounds. It is beautiful all year round, with spectacular snowdrops in February, daffodils in March, bluebells in April, rhodedendrons in May, as well as glorious trees and autumn colour to enjoy, reflecting in the lake. It is a photographer's dream.
The events programme is exciting and varied, from Jousts to carshows, and theatre to vintage fairs, outdoor cinema to medieval sieges. There is something for everyone, and so often the best way to enjoy heritage. The grounds and keep are also open during the week and at weekends for more peaceful and private enjoyment of the estate.
Hedingham Castle is also the most romantic wedding venue in England, hosting ceremonies in the keep, and banquets in the tapestry room, or receptions in the stunning Georgian country house. People adore coming here for corporate events of all types, from feasts to photoshoots, as well as many other parties.
It is also the perfect place for a staycation. The Medieval Lodge sleeps 17 and the Garden Cottage sleeps 4. Anyone staying here can explore the grounds after hours and enjoy the stunning peace and quiet of the Essex countryside. There is so much to discover just a stone's throw down the road.
We look forward to welcoming you to Hedingham Castle and sharing our beautiful home with you. Please see our website for more details.
Book Tickets
Guide Prices
Please see website for further details.
Events
Sunday, 16th February 2025 - Wednesday, 19th February 2025
Snowdrop WalksThe snowdrops will soon be peeking out from beneath their leafy blanket to mark the beginning of spring. Extra activities also happening during February Half Term- more info
Saturday, 22nd February 2025 - Saturday, 22nd February 2025
Sunday, 23rd February 2025 - Sunday, 23rd February 2025
Snowdrop WalksThe snowdrops will soon be peeking out from beneath their leafy blanket to mark the beginning of spring at Hedingham Castle.- more info
Sunday, 2nd March 2025 - Sunday, 2nd March 2025
Sunday, 9th March 2025 - Sunday, 9th March 2025
Sunday, 30th March 2025 - Sunday, 30th March 2025
Owls by CandlelightCome and join the brilliant Eden Falconry for a magical evening with the Owls in the Castle.- more info
Sunday, 20th April 2025 - Sunday, 20th April 2025
Monday, 21st April 2025 - Monday, 21st April 2025
Knights of Middle England JoustJoin us for an unforgettable spectacle as the ever-popular Knights of Middle England take to the Hedingham battle ground as they battle it out to be proclaimed champion!- more info
Sunday, 25th May 2025 - Sunday, 25th May 2025
Monday, 26th May 2025 - Monday, 26th May 2025
Knights of Royal England JoustGet ready for an epic battle of strength and valour as The Knights of Royal England return to Hedingham Castle over the Bank Holiday weekend!- more info
Friday, 27th June 2025 - Friday, 27th June 2025
The Pantaloons presents Sense & SensibilityThis funny, fast-paced and faithful new adaptation from the critically-acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company features live music, audience interaction, romance and heartbreak.- more info
Wednesday, 6th August 2025 - Wednesday, 6th August 2025
The Pantaloons presents HamletJoin the critically-acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company as they tackle Shakespeare's greatest tragedy in their own anarchic style. Enjoy a night of fabulous theatre in the magical grounds of Hedingham Castle.- more info
Sunday, 10th August 2025 - Sunday, 10th August 2025
Classic and Vintage Car ShowFeaturing a range of vintage, pre 1940s classic, classic and modern classic vehicles, this show is a must for all car lovers and the perfect way to spend a Sunday.- more info
Sunday, 24th August 2025 - Sunday, 24th August 2025
Monday, 25th August 2025 - Monday, 25th August 2025
Knights of Albion JoustPrepare for an unforgettable clash as The Knights of Albion make their triumphant return to Hedingham Castle this August Bank Holiday weekend for our final joust of the season!- more info
Friday, 29th August 2025 - Friday, 29th August 2025
Fairytale Fest SuffolkNow on its 4th successful year, this magical event is proud to be expanding to a brand new venue and area of the UK!- more info
Friday, 12th September 2025 - Friday, 12th September 2025
Adventure Cinema presents Notting Hill (15)Adventure Cinema is back at Hedingham Castle for 2025, kicking off their 3-day run with the classic '90s rom-com, Notting Hill.- more info
Saturday, 13th September 2025 - Saturday, 13th September 2025
Adventure Cinema presents Moana 2 (U)Adventure Cinema is bringing Disney's brand new Moana film to Hedingham Castle in this family-friendly outdoor screening.- more info
Facilities
Accessibility
- Disabled access - Please let the person on the gate know as they will allow you to park close to the castle. Realistically Norman castles were built to keep people out! But the ground floor tapestry room is ramp accessible. We very much hope you can enjoy the essence of the castle from this room.
Catering
- On-site catering
- On-site light refreshments
- Picnic site
Property Facilities
- Dogs Accepted
Suitability
- School Trips
Target Markets
- Coach parties accepted
Map & Directions
Road Directions
By Road: Only 1.5 hours from London, 45 mins from Cambridge and Colchester it is located on the B1058 (1 mile off A1017) . Follow the brown signs from 5 miles away.
Public Transport Directions
By Public Transport: We are between two railway stations. Sudbury and Braintree, which are about 7 miles away. There is a limited bus service and lots of local taxis.
