Layer Marney Tower
With a National Art Pass you get
Layer Marney Tower is England's tallest Tudor gatehouse, and a dramatic presence in the Essex landscape. From the top there are panoramic views towards the River Blackwater and beyond.
Henry Lord Marney, Lord Privy Seal, began to build his impressive statement house during the reign of Henry VIII, but he only completed the gatehouse and main range before his death.
Following the latest fashion, terracotta was used for decoration on turrets, windows and tombs in the church. The monarch himself paid a visit, and so did his daughter Elizabeth 1.
Climb the Tower for magnificent views, and visit the church and the Long Gallery, which was once used as stables but converted in Edwardian times.
Visitor information
Address
Layer Marney, Near Colchester, Essex, CO5 9US
01206 330784
Opening times
29 Mar – 27 Sep Mar –Jun Sun & Wed, 11.00 am – 5 pm 1 Jul – 31 Aug Sun – Thu, 11.00 am – 5 pm Check website as we aren't open every Bank Holiday Additional opening dates over Easter school holidays
Visitor information
The more you see, the more we do.
The National Art Pass lets you enjoy free entry to hundreds of museums, galleries and historic places across the UK, while raising money to support them.