Blickling Estate — A Grand Jacobean House in Norfolk

History, Architecture, and Legend in One Majestic Estate

In the heart of Norfolk, Blickling Estate stands as one of England’s finest Jacobean mansions.
Completed in 1616, the current house replaced an earlier manor believed to be the birthplace of Anne Boleyn, the ill-fated second wife of Henry VIII.

Today, breathtaking rooms, formal gardens, and vast parkland make Blickling a full-day adventure for history lovers and families alike.

A House Rich in Royal Connections

The Boleyn family owned a house here in the 15th and 16th centuries.
Anne Boleyn’s association gives the estate a captivating aura — especially as her story continues to fascinate.

Later, the estate passed into the hands of the Hobart family, who built the present mansion in striking red brick with ornate Jacobean gables.
Therefore, Blickling reflects both Tudor legacy and Stuart ambition.

Exploring Blickling Estate
1. The Mansion Interiors

Inside, grand state rooms showcase fine tapestries, portraits, and carved oak details.
Don’t miss the Long Gallery, once a key part of the house’s famous library — one of the most significant book collections in the National Trust.
In addition, knowledgeable room guides share stories of the people who shaped Blickling over 400 years.

2. Formal Gardens

Ornamental parterres, topiary, and peaceful fountains fill the grounds surrounding the house.
Seasonal highlights include spring tulips, summer roses, and rich autumn colours.
Moreover, the Walled Garden has been beautifully restored, offering fresh flowers, fruit, and vegetables throughout the year.

3. Parkland and Lake Walks

More than 4,600 acres of woodland and open park stretch around the estate.
Marked trails loop past Blickling Lake, ancient oaks, and quiet ha-has where deer sometimes graze.
It’s an ideal landscape for longer walks, family picnics, and wildlife spotting.

Learn more at the National Trust website — Blickling Estate

Ghosts and Local Legends

Blickling has one of Britain’s most famous ghost stories.
According to legend, Anne Boleyn returns to the estate each year on May 19th — the anniversary of her execution — riding a spectral carriage.
Furthermore, visitors and staff have reported mysterious footsteps and eerie feelings in the Long Gallery.

Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the stories add intrigue to every visit.

Visiting Blickling Estate
How to Get There

Address: Blickling, Norwich NR11 6NF

By Car: Large paid car park on-site

By Bus: Services from Norwich and Aylsham

Opening Hours & Admission

House and gardens open seasonally

Free entry for National Trust members

Facilities

Café, restaurant, and shop

Bike hire and cycle racks

Accessible routes and mobility vehicles

Dog-friendly parkland

Nearby Attractions

Aylsham — Charming market town minutes away

Felbrigg Hall — Another outstanding National Trust mansion

Norwich Cathedral — Medieval masterpiece in the city

North Norfolk Coast — Scenic countryside and beaches

Together, they create a perfect Historic Norfolk Heritage Trail.

Why Visit Blickling Estate?

The Blickling experience blends art, nature, and legend in one unforgettable day out.
Its elegant rooms, expansive parkland, and royal history offer something for every visitor.

Whether you come for heritage, photography, or a relaxing walk, this Jacobean treasure never disappoints.

It’s not just a house — it’s a story set in brick and beauty.