Layer Marney Tower

Layer Marney Tower is an historic palace and the family home of the Charringtons.  The 300 ft long buildings are the front façade of an unfinished Tudor Palace, built by Lord Marney, friend of both Henry VII and Henry VIII.  It was planned to be three times larger than it is now, but Lord Marney died in 1523 before it was completed and his son died two years later, with only two young daughters to inherit. They were made wards of court and the vast estates sold off and never finished. What was built is magnificent and one of the few examples of Tudor, Italianate architecture in the country. It is the tallest of all the Tudor Gatehouses.

It is worth checking our website to see what tours and events we have going on. As an independent traveller you can enjoy the exhibition of Dollhouses, the pictures from  of the Victor Batte-Lay Collection, the Crowns and Crests on loan from the College of Arms. It is possible to climb to the roof and have a wonderful view to the Blackwater across an expanse of Essex countryside.  Don’t miss the mediaeval Essex Barn or the nearby Church with Marney Effigy Tombs and 15^th century  wall painting of St Christopher. 

Have a stroll round the gardens, inspect the Edwardian Green houses and enjoy a Cream Tea in the Tea Rooms.

A Guided tour will take you into the private side of the house. Groups can book in any time of the year and individuals can join a tour through the “Invitation to View” tours available on our website.

We have the capacity to seat up to 140 people for a meal at one time. Coach parking available.