Mannington

Mannington Hall is a moated medieval manor house set in the Norfolk countryside near Itteringham and Barningham. Built around 1460 for William Lumnor, it retains much of its original character, including knapped flint walls, turrets and a distinctive Gothic outline. Long associated with prominent families such as the Walpoles, the Grade I-listed hall is privately owned and open to visitors on selected days.

Surrounding the manor is Mannington Hall Gardens, one of its greatest draws and a celebrated horticultural destination in North Norfolk. The gardens are renowned for their extensive collection of roses, particularly in the walled Heritage Rose Garden and the Modern Rose Garden, where varieties are displayed in arrangements that reflect their historical origins. These scented borders and flowering displays are complemented by wildflower meadows, lakeside walks, woodlands and a variety of themed garden spaces, including a sensory garden designed to appeal to all five senses. The setting is both historic and bucolic, with opportunities to explore a mix of formal planting and natural habitats that support local wildlife, making it a peaceful place for visitors to wander and enjoy the seasonal blooms.

In addition to its ornamental gardens, Mannington offers a broader estate experience that celebrates Norfolk’s landscape and countryside heritage. Public and permissive footpaths wind through ancient woodland, grasslands and around lakes, offering scenic walks for families, gardeners and nature lovers alike, with benches and resting spots along the way. The gardens and grounds typically open to visitors in the warmer months—especially from May through September—while public footpaths around the estate remain accessible year-round. Though the house itself is only open on select occasions, the gardens’ blend of horticultural richness, conservation focus and rural tranquillity has made Mannington a hidden gem among East Anglia’s historic estates.