Helmingham Hall Gardens
Moated brick manor house started by John Tollemache in 1480.
Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 6EF
Facilities
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Accessible loos
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Accessible parking
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Cafe / restaurant
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Free parking
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Garden only
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Mostly wheelchair accessible
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Parkland / open spaces
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Pet friendly
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Shop
- Accessible toilets
- Accessible parking
- Guide dogs welcome
Helmingham and the Tollemache family have been together for many hundreds of years.
The Hall and the old oak trees that stand today have seen much of the history of England pass before them, and many generations of this family.
Helmingham Hall was completed in 1510, surrounded by its deep moat, serene gardens and ancient 400 acre deer park which is the home to herds of both red and fallow deer.
The gardens today have been extensively redesigned by the current Lady Tollemache, a Chelsea Gold Medallist, and are open to visitors who find themselves enchanted by the herbaceous borders, walled kitchen garden, herb, knot, rose and wild gardens.
Enjoy a breathtaking blend of history, elegance, and horticultural artistry as you explore our Gardens. Surrounded by a medieval moat, these Grade I-listed gardens feature enchanting herbaceous borders, a classic parterre, and serene wildflower meadows. Carefully crafted with seasonal beauty in mind, they offer a stunning display of colour, structure, and tranquility throughout the year.
The three “Stable Shops” are wonderful places to spend time. You can browse through lovingly curated selections of local crafts, handmade gifts and garden-inspired wares and uncover a unique reminder of your time with us.
Our cosy café is a very welcoming spot to rest and recharge after exploring the estate. With home-baked cakes, hearty lunches and the comforting aroma of fresh coffee, it’s a real treat to be enjoyed time and time again.
Important information: opening info is generated by artificial intelligence; check specific attraction details before travelling.
The indicator above will show ‘open’ when the public have any kind of access to any part of this property. That could be the park, a shop, or a special event, and may not reflect regular admission times to the main attraction. Always consult the website of the house or garden you intend to visit before travelling to check that the attraction you are interested in is open.
Opening Times
Gardens – General Admission
The gardens are open to the public Sunday to Thursday, May to September. The 2026 season runs from 3rd May to 30th September, and the 2027 season from 2nd May to 30th September. Please note that the gardens may be closed on event days or in rare cases such as severe weather.
Membership Access
Annual members enjoy access to the gardens from 3rd May to 30th September 2026, open Sunday to Thursday. Membership includes free entry to all Music in the Gardens Sundays and, new for 2026, free entry to Midsummer Nights evenings. Please note that membership access excludes event days unless otherwise specified.
Group Visits
Self-Guided Groups are welcome Sunday to Thursday, 10am to 5pm. The 2026 season runs from 3rd May to 30th September, and 2027 from 2nd May to 30th September. Opening times and admission prices may vary on event days.
Private Tours with a Gardener are available for groups Monday to Thursday during the season. Tours last approximately one hour.
Special Events and Experiences
Member Exclusive Preview Day: Members have the opportunity to visit on Saturday 2nd May 2026, one day before general public opening.
Monday Garden Tours (Public): Select Mondays throughout May to September offer guided tours open to the public. Specific dates are available on the events page.
Midsummer Nights: A series of special evening openings runs from 25th June to 13th August 2026. Members receive free entry as part of their membership benefits.
Illuminated Garden Trail: This festive experience runs from 12th to 19th December 2026. Tickets go on sale in July 2026. Bookings for 2027 are also being taken.
Free garden entry for Historic Houses members. No pre-booking required.
Adult £10
Child (5 – 15) £5
Child (under 5) £0
Memberships are not accepted on event days and standard admission prices may vary, please check website for event listings and ticket prices.
A wide variety of groups and clubs, as well as tour operators, visit Helmingham Gardens from all over the world every year. Book for self-guided admission or for a tour with one of the Gardening Team! Group bookings also available for many events. Discounted entry for groups of 30+. Visit the website or make contact for more details.
- Accessible toilets
- Accessible parking
- Guide dogs welcome
Getting here
Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 6EF
For those travelling by public transport, the nearest train stations are Ipswich or Stowmarket.
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