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Historical places

Hellens

4.8 · 434 reviews
A quiet place for contemplation
Hellens, Much Marcle, Ledbury HR8 2LY, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The manor contains a 'Haunted Room' associated with Anne Boleyn, who is said to have visited the estate.

2

Hellens remains one of the oldest dwellings in England, with parts of the structure dating back to the 12th century.

3

The estate houses a significant collection of portraits, including works attributed to Lely and Van Dyck.

4

The Great Hall features a large fireplace and an original 17th-century plaster ceiling.

5

Much Marcle is famous for its cider production, and the Hellens estate maintains an orchard dedicated to preserving rare Herefordshire apple species.

6

The house has never been sold on the open market, having transitioned through inheritance within the same family line for generations.

Overview

Hellens Manor is a historic, lived-in manor house located in the village of Much Marcle, Herefordshire, featuring architectural elements spanning the 12th to the 18th century. The estate is noted for its collection of period furniture, fine art, and the Grade II listed timber-framed buildings surrounding the courtyard. It is particularly recognized for its association with the Audley and Walwyn families, who occupied the manor for centuries. The grounds encompass formal gardens, a yew labyrinth, and an orchard featuring heritage apple varieties. Guided tours provide access to rooms including the Great Hall, the drawing room, and the attic, which retains original features from the Tudor period. The site hosts various cultural events, concerts, and workshops throughout the year. Visitors can utilize the on-site tea room which serves refreshments within the historic setting.

Photo spot

The view of the Tudor-style timber frame exterior from the main courtyard garden.

Insider tips

Wear comfortable, flat walking shoes to navigate the uneven historic floorboards and the gravel garden paths.

Check the estate's official website for tour availability, as the house is not open for self-guided wandering and requires pre-booking for tours.

Allow extra time to walk through the yew labyrinth and the surrounding gardens after your house tour.

What to avoid

Attempting to enter the manor house without a scheduled tour guide, as the interior is not open for public unguided access.

Good to know

Tours are conducted on a seasonal basis, typically running from spring through early autumn, with the house closed for tours during the winter months.

Etiquette

Photography is generally prohibited inside the manor house to protect the historic artifacts and paintings; check with your guide upon arrival.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2.5-3 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring or early autumn, when the gardens are in bloom or changing color and the manor is fully operational for tours.
Address
Hellens, Much Marcle, Ledbury HR8 2LY, United Kingdom
51.996, -2.495
Get directions
Details
Key exhibits17th-century plasterwork ceilings, historic family portraits, and Tudor-era attic rooms
Garden featuresYew labyrinth and heritage apple orchard

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2.5-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early autumn, when the gardens are in bloom or changing color and the manor is fully operational for tours..

The view of the Tudor-style timber frame exterior from the main courtyard garden.

Close by you'll find St Mary's Church, Eastnor Castle, The International Centre for Birds of Prey.