Welcome to Stately Homes

In 1096 the Manor was granted to the de Balun family, who were to witness the signing of the Magna Carta. Thereafter by marriage deed or gift, it passed eventually to the Mortimers, and by 1301 to the Lords Audley, created Earls of Gloucester in 1337.

A nephew, James - companion to the Black Prince - rented the Manor for a pair of silver spurs. He then leased it to Walte de Haylon, who gave his name to the house: his descendants have lived here almost without interruption ever since.

Hellens is a living monument to much of England's history. It contains a wealth of period furnishings, paintings and decorations. There are heirlooms of Ann Boleyn, Mary Tudor, the Earl of Essex (Elizabeth I's favourite), Charles I, the Duke of Wharton and of the house's inhabitants over the centuries.

The gardens are being redeveloped along Tudor and Jacobean lines, reflecting the house's history. They incorporate a rare 17th century octagonal dovecote, a walled knot garden, a yew labyrinth, and a short woodland and pond walk. There are also the Derby Coach and family carriages to be seen, and well as the Old Cider Mill house.

Opening Times - 2010:

4th April - 30th September: Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday & Bank Holiday Mondays. Guided tours only at 2 pm, 3 pm & 4 pm
Other times by arrangement with the Administrator.

Disabled access: Regrettably, Hellens is not suitable for wheelchairs, due to steps and narrow access. Please contact if you have any queries.

Admission Prices - 2010:

Adults - £5
Child - £2.50
Concessions - £4
Family - £10

Special Events, Concerts, etc:

Hellens hosts a regular programme of concerts, poetry, art and gardening workshops, as well as literary and drama events.

The Pennington Mellor Munthe Trust has sponsored events with Simon Callow, Robert Powell & Joanna David, Janet Suzman and Martin Best, Lord Gowrie, James Fenton, Jose Maria Velasquez and Matthew Sweeney.

The trust also helps with community fund-raising projects such as St Michaels Hospice, Growing Point, the CPRE and the Scouts Association.

The 16th century tithe and haywain barns are being restored for community use and as an arts venue. Both barns will available for hire for receptions, performances and residential courses.

Educational Visits:

Hellens welcomes and encourages visits by schools and children’s' groups, as the house and gardens are ideal for developing an understanding of local heritage and history

Hellens is suitable for school visits as part of the National Curriculum. Visits can be arranged around a variety of themes and activities.

Directions:

How to get here Hellens is situated in the village of Much Marcle, just off the A449, 7 miles from Ross on Wye and 3 miles from Ledbury.

Public Transport The nearest railway station is Ledbury.