Audley End House Tours and Activities

Audley End House which includes interior views, heritage architecture and heritage elements
Audley End House featuring a house, heritage elements and interior views
Audley End House which includes heritage elements, heritage architecture and a house
Audley End House featuring a park, forest scenes and flowers
Audley End House showing interior views, heritage elements and a house


Visit operating stables, explore formal gardens and discover some local history at one of the finest examples of Jacobean architecture in Britain.

The opulent lifestyles of Britain’s wealthy earls and lords have been frozen in time at the immaculately restored Audley End House and Gardens. Wander through the formal gardens, visit horses in the estate stables or tour the living quarters of its former residents. With plenty of fun activities aimed at children, a day exploring the grounds of Audley End House is perfect for the whole family. 

Audley End House and Gardens is the former home of Sir Thomas Audley. He was granted the estate from Henry VIII. While no longer the manor of palatial proportions that it was during the 16th century, Audley End House remains one of the best examples of Jacobean architecture in Britain. 

Wander through the various rooms to learn about the intriguing architecture and history of the house. The rooms reflect the varied tastes of the many inhabitants of Audley End, ranging from the neoclassical architecture of the Robert Adam Rooms to the 18th-century Gothic influence of the chapel.

Outside in the garden, stroll between the hedges of the formal parterre or visit the walled organic kitchen garden. Along with the dairy, the vinery and the orchard house, this garden was central to the lives of Audley End House’s residents. 

Let the kids play in the themed play area and dress up in traditional costume at the stables. They’ll love meeting the resident horses while you explore the interactive exhibition housed within the stables. 

Audley End House is located 1 mile (1.2 kilometres) west of Saffron Walden and free parking is available on site. A bus and train station is located just a short walk from the house. Check the English Heritage website for up-to-date information on opening times and admission prices. In the warmer months, there are special events such as a "Meet the Staff," when you can see costumed characters performing duties that workers would have done in the Victorian era. 

Popular places to visit


Top Audley End House Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport

Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport

4 out of 5
Waltham Close Stansted Airport, Bishop's Stortford, England
Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted Airport
Novotel London Stansted Airport

Novotel London Stansted Airport

4 out of 5
Round Coppice Road, London Stansted Airport, Stansted, England
Novotel London Stansted Airport
Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport

Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport

3 out of 5
Bassingbourn Road, Essex, Stansted, England
Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport
DeSalis Hotel London Stansted

DeSalis Hotel London Stansted

3 out of 5
Hall Road ( opposite Green St.), Elsenham, Bishop's Stortford, England
DeSalis Hotel London Stansted
Ramada by Wyndham London Stansted Airport

Ramada by Wyndham London Stansted Airport

3.5 out of 5
Welcome Break Birchanger Green, Jct 8, M11 Mtrwy, Old Dumow Rd, Bishop's Stortford, England
Ramada by Wyndham London Stansted Airport
Holiday Inn Express London Stansted Airport by IHG

Holiday Inn Express London Stansted Airport by IHG

3 out of 5
Thremhall Avenue, London Stansted Airport, Bishop's Stortford, England
Holiday Inn Express London Stansted Airport by IHG
The Great Hallingbury Manor Hotel

The Great Hallingbury Manor Hotel

4 out of 5
Tilekin Green, Bishop's Stortford, England
The Great Hallingbury Manor Hotel
Days Inn by Wyndham London Stansted Airport

Days Inn by Wyndham London Stansted Airport

2.5 out of 5
Welcome Break Service Area, Junction 8, M11 Motorway, Bishop's Stortford, England
Days Inn by Wyndham London Stansted Airport
Clayton Hotel Cambridge

Clayton Hotel Cambridge

4 out of 5
Station Rd, Cambridge, England
Clayton Hotel Cambridge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Audley End House

While visiting Audley End House, take the opportunity to explore the stunning Wandlebury Country Park, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Consider planning day trips to discover the charming surroundings of Saffron Walden, where you can immerse yourself in local history and culture. These activities make for a delightful addition to your experience at this historic estate.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, the Grand Arcade Shopping Centre is 20.9km away, offering a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. Alternatively, head to Cambridge Market Square, 22.5km away, for local goods and city vibes. For a family-friendly experience, check out the Forest Drive Shops, 35.4km away.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at Gog Magog Golf Club, where the lush greens and fresh air create a perfect outdoor escape. For relaxation, head to The Backs, a serene recreational area ideal for unwinding amidst nature and enjoying peaceful walks.

Adventure

Experience thrilling white-water rafting at Lee Valley White Water Centre, located 40.2km from Audley End House. For an exhilarating air sports adventure, try Virtual Aviation, only 20.9km away. Alternatively, enjoy a family camping trip at Gilwell Park, situated 43.5km from the house.

Nightlife

In Audley End House, the Old Sun Inn is perfect for a cozy pub experience with a romantic vibe, just 1.4km away. For a cultural touch, Haverhill Arts Centre and Cineworld Haverhill, both 16.1km away, offer family-friendly entertainment and a delightful atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Audley End House

Audley End House in Saffron Walden offers a delightful mix of attractions, including its stunning jacobean mansion and beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore nearby urban parks and historic colleges, perfect for family outings or cultural experiences. For a comfortable stay, consider guesthouses close to the estate. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the local history and enjoy the outdoor scenery surrounding this charming destination.

  • Imperial War Museum Duxford: Experience a fascinating journey through military history at this renowned museum. With impressive aircraft displays and immersive exhibitions, Duxford offers a unique insight into Britain's aviation heritage, just 9.7km from Audley End House.
  • Bridge End Gardens: This charming urban park, located only 1.6km away, is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, enjoy the vibrant flower displays, and unwind in a peaceful setting that embodies the essence of city life.
  • Sawston Hall: A historical monument situated 11.3km from Audley End, Sawston Hall showcases stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. Explore its beautiful grounds and discover the stories behind this remarkable building, which adds depth to your visit.

Best time to go to Audley End House

The best time to visit Audley End House can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Audley End House falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Audley End House falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January39.0°F (3.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February40.3°F (4.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March43.5°F (6.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
April47.5°F (8.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
May53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June59.0°F (15.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July63.1°F (17.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August63.3°F (17.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September59.2°F (15.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November45.9°F (7.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December41.5°F (5.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Audley End House

To save on your visit to Audley End House, consider travelling between December and February for lower accommodation prices, particularly on Sundays. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly options by sorting results to show the cheapest stays and selecting eco-certified hotels for sustainable choices. You can also save by bundling your hotel with flights and activities for package deals. For public transport, check local bus services for affordable travel options, and make the most of free activities in the area to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Audley End House are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Audley End House is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Audley End House is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and much more. You can organise your results to display the lowest prices first, making it easy to find the most affordable accommodation. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type—if you select the “Eco-certified” filter, you’ll be shown sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Audley End House hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.