Place to visit

Rates

House, Park & Garden Adult: £10.50, Senior £9, Child £5

Opening times

Easter Saturday - end September, Wed - Sun & BH Mons. House 12 - 4, Garden & park 11 - 5.30

Telephone

01707 287010

Description

Hatfield House in Hertfordshire, just 21 miles north of London, is a fine Jacobean House and Garden in a spectacular countryside setting. Built by Robert Cecil, Ist Earl of Salisbury and Chief Minister to King James I from 1607 to 1611. There is a marvellous collection of pictures, furnishings and historic armour on display The Estate has been in the Cecil family for 400 years, one of England’s foremost political families. Hatfield House is the home of the 7th Marquess of Salisbury. The Royal Palace of Hatfield (c 1485) in the West Garden is where Elizabeth I spent most of her childhood. In the Park, an oak tree marks the place where the young Princess Elizabeth first heard of her accession to the throne. The Garden at Hatfield House dates from the early 17th century when Robert Cecil employed John Tradescant the Elder to collect plants for his new home. The West garden includes a scented garden, herb garden and knot garden. Visitors can enjoy the extensive Park surrounding the House. Play area for children. Varied programme of events for children and adults, including the Hatfield Banquet held regularly in the Old Palace.

Location

Just 20 miles north of London. Celebrated Jacobean house steeped in Elizabethan and Victorian political history; famous for its furniture, tapestries and paintings. Home of the Cecil family for 400 yrs. Beautiful Garden and Park. Licensed restaurant and gift shop. Entrance opposite Hatfield Station. Hospitality & events programme. See www.hatfield-house.co.uk