Layer Marney Tower

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About

Layer Marney Tower near Colchester in Essex is the tallest Tudor Gatehouse in the UK, a magnificent building standing 80 feet tall within stunning grounds.

The Tower stands on the shores of the river Blackwater, and construction was initiated by Lord Henry Marney in the 1520s, a close friend of Henry VIII. The Gatehouse and ranges which were continued by his son after his death were supposed to be part of a grand palace, but construction ceased after his son's death. What stands today is a glimpse into the luxurious aspirations of a 16th century lord, now a family-run venue which opens its doors to the public at certain times of the year, and it still does not fail to impress.

Events run throughout the year, often on Bank holidays or weekends, are always a fun mix of historic and contemporary activities:

- Guided Tours of the tower are run by Sheila and Nick Charrington, the owners of Layer Marney Tower
- Plays, shows and re-enactments are often put on in the grounds, with costumes to make you wonder what century you have travelled to.
- Join in with lamb feeding in the grounds' farm
- Attend the village fete or fairs, as well as live music and concerts
-  If camping's not for you, then try glamping in Layer Marney Tower Grounds. It's all the excitement and wildness of camping, with less cold showers and bugs.

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Guide Prices

Adults £10.00 per person
Children (13+ and students) £7.00 per person

Events

Wednesday, 27th March 2024 - Sunday, 31st March 2024

Monday, 1st April 2024 - Monday, 1st April 2024

Tuesday, 2nd April 2024 - Thursday, 4th April 2024

Sunday, 7th April 2024 - Thursday, 11th April 2024

Easter FunVisit Layer Marney tower this Easter and enjoy the tractor ride to see the lambs.
more info

Facilities

Accessibility

  • Disabled access
  • Wheelchairs available

Catering

  • On-site catering
  • On-site light refreshments
  • Picnic site

Groups

  • Coach parking

Property Facilities

  • Dogs Accepted

Target Markets

  • Coach parties accepted

Map & Directions

Road Directions

By car: Layer Marney Tower is a 20mins drive from Colchester town centre, off Maldon Road on the way to Tiptree.  

Public Transport Directions

By Bus: The 75 bus from Colchester Town Centre will take you to Smythe's Green, a 20min walk from Layer Marney Tower. The nearest railway station is Kelvedon, which is 6 miles away.

Layer Marney Tower

Type:Historic House

Layer Marney, Colchester, Essex, CO5 9US

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating - 150 reviews150 reviews
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Tel01206 330784

Awards

  • Other AwardsHistoric Houses Association Member Historic Houses Association Member 2019

Opening Times

Season (16 Apr 2023 - 19 July 2023)
Monday - TuesdayClosed
WednesdayOpen
Thursday - SaturdayClosed
SundayOpen
Season (23 July 2023 - 31 Aug 2023)
Monday - ThursdayOpen
Friday - SaturdayClosed
SundayOpen
Season (3 Sept 2023 - 1 Nov 2023)
Monday - TuesdayClosed
WednesdayOpen
Thursday - SaturdayClosed
SundayOpen

*

May – June Sunday & Wednesday
July – Sept Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday
September Sunday & Wednesday
Opening times 11am – 5pm
Layer Marney Tower is open to the public on Mondays and Sundays in May and June, as well as on special occasions such as Heritage Open Days and Invitation to View.
It can be hired out privately for weddings and functions throughout the year.

What's Nearby

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