As we approached the imposing Tudor gatehouse, we noticed the clock with only one hand. This feature wasn’t a mistake. It has only one hand as that was all the estate workers needed to know the hour.
Underneath the clock is the motto of the family that have owned the Hall for generations. “Sans Dieu Rien” – Without God, Nothing – is a defiant statement that sums up the entire history of Ingatestone Hall: a family that survived the chaos of the Tudor court, the horrors of religious persecution, and centuries of upheaval, all while holding tight to their private motto, etched right above the entrance.
Hunting for Tudor Secrets at Ingatestone Hall
A visit to Ingatestone Hall is like stepping into a cold case file from the bloodiest chapter of English history. This isn’t just a manor house; it’s a fortress of faith, a den of spies, and a silent witness to four centuries of power and peril.
Built by Sir William Petre, a man so shrewd he served four terrifying Tudor monarchs (including Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I), Ingatestone Hall was a political hot spot from day one.
The Long Gallery was the main area of the house. It adjoins the remains of the former family chapel, which was pulled down and rebuilt in 1860.
The Petre family were staunch Catholics who refused to abandon their faith during a time when it was highly illegal. They lived under constant threat of arrest and execution. The thick oak-panelled rooms hide two secret Priest Holes within the building. These were used during the 16th and 17th centuries to conceal Catholic clergy. One is located in the east wing in a void under the turret, and the other is in the south wing behind a chimney stack in the old study.
Ingatestone Hall played host to a visit by Queen Elizabeth I in 1561. She arrived with 350 courtiers and a baggage train over a mile long. This was both an honour and a financial nightmare as Queen Elizabeth I and her entourage were non-paying guests, and Sir William Petre had to feed and entertain this colossal party for several days.
Visiting Ingatestone Hall
Today, part of the house is leased out as offices while the current Lord Petre’s son and heir apparent lives in a private wing with his family. The hall is open to the public from Easter to the end of September. Visitors can tour the eight principal rooms containing paintings, furniture and memorabilia accumulated over the centuries and wander in the ten acres of gardens.
Plan your visit at https://www.ingatestonehall.com/visiting
Want to come sightseeing and learn about history? Become a City Adventurer!
The UK based Social Club for people who love visiting shows, exploring new places, discovering new things and solving mysteries.
Life is a journey so experience it’s adventure with like minded people. Live the life you’ve always dreamed of. City Adventurers Membership includes invitations to adventures and travel mainly in the UK
