The tallest Tudor gatehouse in England is a great place to spend an afternoon outdoors, exploring the knot garden, farm and the historic grounds.
Clamber up the Layer Marney Tower for views across the Essex countryside and the River Blackwater. The tower has over 500 years of history to discover and is filled with historic artifacts and relics. When the weather permits a stroll around the gardens or along the Wildlife Walk is a great way to spend an afternoon in Colchester and a great way to see some local bird life around the Blackwater Estuary.
The historic tower was commissioned back in the 16th century by Henry, the first Lord of Marney and a good friend of King Henry VIII. While construction began not long after, the death of Henry and his heir meant the tower was never constructed to its original plan. Nevertheless, the impressive 24-meter (80-foot) tower is the tallest of its kind in England and today functions as a private home, attractions and cultural centre.
Before entering take some time to admire the tower’s exterior. Note the small arched windows and the two cylindrical towers that characterise its design. Enter through the main entrance to climb the steps leading to the top. Gaze across the flat countryside that sprawls towards the horizon, with the River Blackwater snaking across it. Before returning to the ground stop by the History Room to learn about the families that once called the tower home.
Outside, explore the Victorian-style gardens. Smell the roses and walk through the formally designed knot garden. Watch as children play with lambs and pygmy goat and look for the highland cattle along the Wildlife Walk through the farm. Afterwards, stop for a snack at the tearoom while the children play on the playground.
Layer Marney Tower holds irregular hours so check the official website before visiting. Over summer the tower is open from Sunday to Thursday. An admission fee applies for entrance. The tower can be found just 10 kilometres (6 miles) south of Colchester and is easiest to reach with a car, however a bus will take you to nearby Smythe’s Green, approximately a 20 minute walk away.
