Layer Marney Tower
Layer Marney Tower is a wonderful Tudor building of soft red brick and buff coloured terracotta, set within delightful gardens and parkland. In many respects the apotheosis of the Tudor gatehouse, Layer Marney Tower soars over the surrounding countryside offering spectacular views to those who climb the ninety nine steps to the top.
Built in the reign of Henry VIII by Henry, 1st Lord Marney, Layer Marney Tower is the tallest Tudor gatehouse in Great Britain and was intended to surpass the rival work being undertaken by Cardinal Wolsey at Hampton Court. Henry Marney died in 1523 before his ambition was realized and the death of his son John just two years later brought an end to the building work. By then the gatehouse and principal range were completed, as well as the stable block, some outbuildings and the parish church.
Layer Marney Tower has some of the finest terracotta work in the country, probably executed by Flemish craftsmen trained by Italian masters. The terracotta is used on the battlements, windows and, most lavishly of all, the tombs of Henry and John Marney. Visitors may climb to the top of the Tower, passing through some to the recently restored rooms, and enjoy the magnificent views of the gardens and surrounding country.
There are fine outbuildings, including the Long Gallery with its magnificent oak roof and the mediaeval barn, the principal timbers of which date to about 1450. The gardens follow a relatively formal Edwardian layout, with herbaceous borders, broad paths and plentiful roses that flourish in the heavy Essex clay.
One of the countries most desirable wedding venues, Layer Marney Tower is also used for conferences, banquets, trade shows, presentations and many corporate functions. During the year there are many special events ranging from plays to lantern tours to kite festivals.
Admission fees:
Adults: £5
Children: £3
Family: £14
Opening hours:
1 Apr-27 Sep
12pm to 5pm
Apr,May,Jun & Sep, Wed & Sun only
Jul & Aug,Sun to Thur only
Address:
Nr Colchester
Essex CO5 9US
Directions:
From London and the West:
Leave the A12 at the Kelvedon turning (B1024). Drive through Kelvedon, crossing the river, at the top of the hill turn right by the Old Anchor Pub, to Maldon and Tiptree (B1023). Follow this road for about two miles to a T-junction. Turn left to Colchester (B1022). Turn right after 2 miles, at the signpost to Layer Marney Tower. There is a sharp corner, followed soon after by a left turning signed to Layer Marney Tower which you should take. At the first cross-roads turn right, and drive for about 1/4 mile. Layer Marney Tower is on the right.
From Ipswich and the East:
Turn off the A12 at the Halstead exit (B1124). At the roundabout take the first exit left. At the next roundabout take the third exit to Maldon, Tollgate Retail Park and Colchester Zoo. You will approach three small roundabouts: at the first go straight over, at the second turn left, and at the third, a double roundabout, turn right to Maldon (B1022). After two miles take the turning on the left signed to Layer Marney Tower. Go straight over the cross-roads and follow the lane for 1/4 mile. Layer Marney Tower is on the right.
Telephone:
01206 330784
Email:
Website:
Contact name:
Sally Parkinson
Special Events
London Mozart Players String Trio
25 Mar
Doors 6:45pm
Dance With John Playford
28 Mar
10am to 4pm
Invitation To View
31 Mar, 19 May,
16 June,22 Sep &
3 Nov (Candlelit Tour)
11am
It's Easter
4-5 Apr
11am to 5pm
Bottle Feed The Lambs
6,7,8 Apr
12pm to 5pm
A Walk On The Wild Side
25 Apr
12pm to 5pm
Kite Festival
2-3 May
11am to 5pm
Dance Festival
& Classic Cars
30 May
11am to 5pm
Fun For Schools
8-17 June
Art,Artists & Easels
13 June
12pm to 5pm
Wind In The Willows
20 June
6:30pm
Tudor Wedding
27 June
12pm to 5pm
Farm Day With Colchester
Wine Company's Local Producer's Market
8 Aug
12pm to 5pm
Music & beer Festival
29-30 Aug
11am to 5pm
Charity Day
26 Sep
12pm to 5pm
Lantern Tour
29 Oct
7:30pm
Christmas At Layer Marney Tower
15-16 Dec
3:30pm to 7:30pm