Hatfield House

Introduction

Hatfield House is a grand brick-and-stone Jacobean mansion located in Hertfordshire, approximately 21 miles from central London. Built between 1607 and 1611 for Robert Cecil, the 1st Earl of Salisbury and seceretary of state to Elizabeth I, it has been home to the Cecil family for over 400 years. The house stands on the site of what was once Hatfield Palace, where Elizabeth I spent much of her childhood and famously learned of her accession to the throne in 1558 whilst sitting under an oak tree in the grounds. Today, visitors can explore the stunning state rooms featuring important historical artefacts, including the famous 'Rainbow Portrait' of Elizabeth I, as well as 42 acres of beautifully maintained gardens and an extensive deer park. The Old Palace, dating from 1485, partially survives with its magnificent Banqueting Hall showcasing striking Tudor brickwork. Hatfield House is easily accessible by train, with Hatfield station located directly opposite the pedestrian entrance to the site.

One famous occupant was the 3rd Marquess of Salisbury, three times Prime Minister under Queen Victoria, at the height of the British Empire. The 7th Marquess of Salisbury currently owns the property.

Interesting Facts about Hatfield House

• Hatfield House was built in 1611 on the site of the former Hatfield Palace.
• The Old Palace of Hatfield, where Elizabeth I spent much of her youth, still stands within the grounds.
• Princess Elizabeth was reportedly sitting under an oak tree in Hatfield Park when she learned of her accession to the throne in 1558.
• The famous 'Rainbow Portrait' of Queen Elizabeth I, painted around 1600, is on display at Hatfield House.
• King James I exchanged the Old Palace for Theobalds, the home of Robert Cecil, in 1607.
• The Marble Hall features a striking black and white chequered marble floor.
• Hatfield House boasts a 22-foot long illuminated parchment roll showing Queen Elizabeth I's pedigree traced back to Adam and Eve.
• The house displays gloves and silk stockings believed to be the first in England, associated with Queen Elizabeth I.
• During World War II, Hatfield House served as the headquarters for the first Civil Resettlement Unit, helping repatriated British prisoners of war.
• The Cecil family has owned and occupied Hatfield House for 400 years, with the current residents being the 7th Marquess and Marchioness of Salisbury.
• St Etheldreda's Church, located near Hatfield House, dates back to the 13th century and houses the Salisbury Chapel built in 1618.

History

Hatfield House, a magnificent Jacobean country house in Hertfordshire, boasts a rich history intertwined with the British monarchy. Built in 1611 by Robert Cecil, the 1st Earl of Salisbury, it stands on the site of the former Hatfield Palace, which dates back to 1485. The old palace played a significant role in Tudor history, serving as a residence for Henry VIII's children. It was here, under an oak tree in the park, that Princess Elizabeth reportedly learned of her accession to the throne in 1558, becoming Queen Elizabeth I.

The construction of Hatfield House marked a new era for the estate. Robert Cecil, son of Elizabeth I's chief minister Lord Burghley, acquired the property through an exchange with King James I. Cecil partially demolished the old palace, preserving only one wing and the gatehouse, to make way for his grand new residence. The house showcases exquisite Jacobean craftsmanship and has been home to the Cecil family for over 400 years, bearing witness to numerous historical events.

Throughout its history, Hatfield House has been associated with significant moments and figures. During the English Civil War, it is said that Charles I spent a night in the house as Cromwell's captive. In the Victorian era, the 3rd Marquess of Salisbury, who served three times as Prime Minister, called Hatfield House home. The estate also played a role in both World Wars, with its grounds used for testing early tanks in WWI and the house serving as a recovery centre for service personnel in WWII. Today, Hatfield House remains a treasured historic site, offering visitors a glimpse into centuries of British history and architectural splendour.

Description

Hatfield House stands as a prime example of early 17th-century English architecture. This Grade I listed building, situated in Hertfordshire, boasts a distinctive U-shaped design with a central hall flanked by two symmetrical wings. The house's north façade features the main entrance, adorned with intricate stonework and the Cecil family crest, welcoming visitors into its grand interiors. The red brick exterior, punctuated by tall chimneys and mullioned windows, creates a striking silhouette against the English countryside.

Spectacular Interiors

Upon entering Hatfield House, guests are greeted by the impressive Marble Hall, a testament to Jacobean craftsmanship. The two-storey hall, complete with a minstrels' gallery and ornate plastered ceiling, harks back to the medieval English hall tradition. Black and white marble flooring creates a dramatic chessboard effect, whilst the walls are adorned with tapestries and ancestral portraits.

A splendid oak staircase, considered one of England's finest, leads to the state apartments on the first floor, which are designed in the Italian style. The staircase itself is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, with elaborately carved newel posts and balustrades showcasing the skill of 17th-century woodworkers.

The Long Gallery, stretching the entire length of the south front, displays an impressive collection of Elizabethan and Jacobean portraits. The gilded ceiling, adorned with pendants and intricate plasterwork, draws the eye upward, whilst the polished wooden floor reflects the light streaming through the tall windows.

Other notable rooms include:

• The Armoury: Housing an impressive collection of arms and armour, including ceremonial swords, muskets, and suits of armour arranged in dramatic displays
• The King James Drawing Room: A lavishly decorated space fit for royalty, featuring gilt furniture, sumptuous textiles, and a spectacular ceiling painted by Rowland Buckett
• The Library: Home to a wealth of historic texts and family mementos, with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and a cosy atmosphere perfect for literary contemplation
• The Winter Dining Room: An intimate space with rich wood panelling and a collection of fine porcelain
• The Chinese Bedroom: Decorated with exquisite hand-painted Chinese wallpaper and Oriental furnishings

Art enthusiasts will be delighted to find the famous Rainbow Portrait of Queen Elizabeth I, painted by Isaac Oliver around 1600, among the many treasures within the house. This enigmatic portrait, laden with symbolism, shows the queen adorned with eyes and ears on her gown, representing her all-seeing, all-hearing nature.

Enchanting Gardens and Grounds

The house is surrounded by meticulously maintained gardens and parkland, offering a verdant escape for visitors. The West Garden, enclosed by massive yew hedges, features intricate pathways, fountains, and borders bursting with a variety of plants including spring bulbs, geraniums, irises, roses, and annuals. The centrepiece of this garden is the elegant sundial, surrounded by geometric beds that change with the seasons.

The Knot Garden, a recreation of a traditional Tudor design, showcases intricate patterns formed by low box hedges. These are filled with aromatic herbs and flowers that would have been familiar to the Elizabethans, creating a sensory experience that transports visitors back in time.

The Old Palace Garden, located on the east side of the Tudor Old Palace, showcases a beautifully designed parterre with box hedges and a charming mini-maze. This formal garden provides a stunning backdrop for photographs and quiet contemplation. The garden's central fountain adds a soothing soundtrack of trickling water, whilst carefully positioned benches offer places to sit and admire the view.

For those visiting in spring, the Woodland Garden is a must-see. Carpeted with bluebells, wildflowers, and narcissi, it also boasts an impressive collection of magnolias, camellias, and other flowering trees and shrubs. The garden's viewing bay offers what many consider the best vantage point of Hatfield House. Winding paths lead through dappled shade, revealing unexpected vistas and hidden corners perfect for quiet reflection.

The Kitchen Garden, though primarily functional, is a delight for those interested in horticulture. Espaliered fruit trees line the walls, whilst neat rows of vegetables and herbs demonstrate traditional growing techniques. The Victorian glasshouses contain exotic specimens and tender plants, providing a glimpse into the gardening practices of bygone eras.

The Great Park

Beyond the formal gardens lies the expansive Great Park, home to herds of wild deer. Visitors can explore the park's network of walking trails, enjoying the ancient woodlands and catching glimpses of the local wildlife. Majestic oak trees, some centuries old, provide shade along the paths, whilst open meadows burst with wildflowers in the warmer months.

The park also features several historic buildings, including the remaining wing of the Old Palace, where Elizabeth I spent much of her childhood. This Tudor building, with its distinctive red brick and tall chimneys, provides a fascinating contrast to the Jacobean splendour of the main house.

The Stable Yard, a charming courtyard surrounded by brick buildings, offers a glimpse into the working life of a grand estate. The clock tower, with its distinctive cupola, marks the hours as it has done for centuries.

A Unique Water Feature

At the front of Hatfield House stands a striking modern addition: the giant water sculpture 'Renaissance' by Angela Conner. This contemporary piece provides an intriguing contrast to the Jacobean architecture, symbolising the estate's ability to blend the old with the new. The sculpture's moving elements, powered by water, create a constantly changing display that captivates visitors of all ages.

Seasonal Splendours

Each season brings its own charm to Hatfield House. In spring, the gardens burst into life with daffodils, tulips, and cherry blossoms creating a riot of colour. Summer sees the rose garden at its peak, with heady scents filling the air and formal borders in full bloom.

Autumn transforms the parkland into a tapestry of gold, russet, and bronze as the ancient trees prepare for winter. The kitchen garden overflows with harvest bounty, whilst berries and fruits adorn the ornamental shrubs.

Even in winter, Hatfield has its charms. Frost-covered topiary creates sculptural forms in the formal gardens, whilst the bare branches of deciduous trees reveal their elegant structure against the sky.

Hidden Treasures

Throughout the estate, visitors will discover unexpected delights. A secluded gazebo offers views across the park, whilst a charming bridge spans a gentle stream. Statuary peeps from behind hedges, and carefully positioned benches invite visitors to pause and absorb the atmosphere of this historic place.

Getting There

To reach Hatfield House in Hertfordshire, you have several convenient options. By car, the estate is located 21 miles from Central London, accessible via the A1(M) at junction 4, and then following the A414 and A1000. For those using public transport, Hatfield railway station is directly opposite the pedestrian entrance to Hatfield Park. Trains from London King's Cross take approximately 20 minutes, and local buses regularly stop at the station. Once at the station, it's a short walk to the park's pedestrian entrance. Additionally, Hatfield House offers ample parking for drivers, with designated areas for disabled visitors.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Hatfield House is during the spring and summer months when the gardens and woodland walks are in full bloom. The park, gardens, and woodland walks are open from Wednesday to Sunday and bank holidays starting from early April, offering a picturesque backdrop for a day out. For those interested in exploring the house itself, it opens from late May, typically on Thursdays to Sundays and bank holidays. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant East Gardens on Wednesdays, making it an ideal time to see the estate in its best condition. With its proximity to London and excellent public transport links, Hatfield House is easily accessible for a day trip, providing a delightful combination of history, nature, and tranquility.