Explore
Doddington
Hall & Gardens
Hall & Gardens
Situated in the heart of the Lincolnshire countryside, Doddington Hall has been standing proud for over 400 years.
Explore
The Hall
Since its completion in 1600, the exterior of Doddington Hall has remained remarkably unchanged. The Hall has never been sold or cleared out and is still a much-loved family home.
One of the finest examples of Elizabethan architecture in England, the Hall was designed by renowned architect Robert Smythson. Construction began in 1595 and the build was finished in just five years.
The Hall was originally built for Thomas Tailor, Registrar to the Bishop of Lincoln, who made his fortune during the Elizabethan property boom. Tailor had Doddington Hall constructed within sight of Lincoln Cathedral as a tribute to his success.
While Doddington is an impressive building today, in 1600, it would have been an awe-inspiring sight - towering over the flat Lincolnshire countryside and the mud and stud cottages of the time.
Thomas Tailor died only six years after the completion of the Hall, which was subsequently handed down to his son. Little did he know that Doddington Hall would never be sold, continuing to pass through family lines for more than 400 years.
Explore
The Gardens
Experience the changing seasons within the beautiful gardens at Doddington Hall.
For many of our visitors, the gardens at Doddington are just as spectacular as the Hall itself. Over the years, they have been carefully nurtured and developed, but the Elizabethan layout has remained unchanged.
The original brick walls still provide the framework, dividing the Kitchen Garden from the formal gardens. When it became fashionable to remove these walls in the 18th century, Doddington’s were preserved - and they have certainly stood the test of time.
The East Front
Enter through the Gatehouse and you will arrive at the East Front garden. Immaculate box hedges and topiary line the original Elizabethan walls, framing uninterrupted views of the Hall. In the forecourt, four topiary unicorns stand proudly on guard, representing the Jarvis family crest.
From the East Front, you can also enjoy a wonderful view of St Peter’s Church. This parish church dates back to the medieval period, but was rebuilt in the distinctive Gothic style in the 1760s.
The West Garden
In 1900, the West Garden was reorganised with the help of experts from Kew. From April to September, this garden is a riot of colour. Borders bloom with botanical surprises, including naturalised crown imperials and a beautiful handkerchief tree. In spring, an incredible magnolia tree takes centre stage, followed by a waterfall of white wisteria, and colourful pops of peonies and alliums.
In the centre of the West Garden, a tapestry of box-edged parterres bursts with beautiful bearded irises from late May to early June. Doddington is also home to the National Plant Collection of Tall Bearded Irises; raised by celebrated iris breeder Bryan Dodsworth and located in the Kitchen Garden.
The Wild Garden
Like something out of a romantic novel, the Wild Garden is a beautiful, peaceful part of the grounds. Throughout the year, this garden is left to grow naturally; explore the meandering paths and you will discover beautiful flowers, wild grasses and some wonderful trees.
A spectacular pageant of spring bulbs begins here in February with swathes of snowdrops, winter aconites, Crocus Tommasinianus and Cyclamen Coum. Through March and early April, these early blooms make way for drifts of Lent lilies, dog’s tooth violets, snake’s head fritillaries and our unique collection of heritage daffodils.
By early summer, the Wild Garden is a delight for the senses, with heavenly scents, sweet birdsong and the gentle humming of bees at every turn. With rhododendrons, azaleas and wildflowers in bloom, the gardens are brimming with colour for months.
Amid this riot of colour, waves of white cow parsley create the most magical sight, leading the eye to the iconic Temple of the Winds. Built by Antony Jarvis in memory of his parents, this stone folly is a wonderful place to sit and soak up the beautiful surroundings.
The Kitchen Garden
The Kitchen Garden has existed here in some form since around 1600, ever since the Hall was built. For centuries it would have supplied fresh produce for the household, continuing a long tradition of growing and eating with the seasons.
Today, the garden supplies an abundance of seasonal ingredients used across the estate. You’ll find Kitchen Garden produce in our Farm Shop and across all of our menus. Visit in the morning and you’ll often see Kitchen Gardener Ellie delivering her daily harvest straight to the chefs.
Thinking about
stopping by?
With so much to do at Doddington, it can be hard to fit everything into just one day. So here are a few useful things to know before you set off:
Inside
The Hall
The exterior of the Hall has barely changed since it was built. However, when the estate was inherited by John Delaval in 1749, the interiors of the Hall underwent a major renovation.
Incorporating the elegant Georgian style of the time, John Delaval added a new staircase, lowered the windows in the Great Hall and even added double glazing in the Drawing Room.
A conscientious man, Delaval loved Doddington and has left his mark on the Hall more than any other owner. Some of the finest paintings and furniture in the Hall today are from his collection, and that is just the beginning…
With over 400 years of unbroken family occupation, each person who inherited Doddington curated their own collection of unique items. The Hall is now home to an incredible array of furniture, art, weaponry and homeware, all with their own fascinating stories.
Since 2006, Doddington has been the much-loved family home of Claire and James Birch. Building on the work started by Claire’s parents, they have devoted themselves to the care, restoration and continued development of the Doddington Estate.
This has included creating new places to eat and shop, introducing new events and launching the extensive Wilder Doddington project. All of the proceeds made on the estate contribute directly to the upkeep and conservation of the Hall and Gardens.
Visit Doddington today to gain a unique insight into family life through the ages - and discover how the estate is shaping the future for generations to come.
Claire & James Birch
Owners of Doddington Hall
“As Doddington continues to grow, we remain committed to making thoughtful, environmentally responsible decisions - considering our impact on tomorrow, as well as today.”
Discover more about
Doddington Hall
Discover even more about Doddington Hall through our partnerships with the following organisations:
RHS Partner
Garden
We're registered as an RHS Partner Garden, allowing RHS visitors to receive discounts and free entry to the gardens at certain times of the year.
Take the
Virtual Tour
Doddington Hall has partnered with Matterport to give you an exclusive, 3D look around the interior of the Hall before your visit!
Historic
Houses
Doddington Hall is registered with Historic Houses, allowing members discounts and free entry to the hall at specific times of the year.
Visit
Lincoln
We regularly work alongside Visit Lincoln to promote not only Doddington Hall, but the wider county of Lincolnshire.
There’s something
for everyone
Shopping
Fill your pantry at our award-winning Farm Shop and browse the latest homeware and fashion in our Home and Clothing store.
Activities
There’s always something new to do at Doddington Hall, whether you’re into padelling, pedalling or perambulating, we’ve got it all.
Food & Drink
Enjoy classic dishes at our Farm Shop Café, afternoon tea in our Tea Room or fine dining at the Grain Store. Each award-winning in their own right.
Staying
Perfect for quick getaways and long stays, our holiday cottages are situated within a beautiful setting on the Doddington Estate.
Frequently
Asked Questions
Do you offer season tickets for Doddington Hall?
Yes. Our season tickets offer excellent value, giving you unlimited visits to the Hall and/or Gardens during normal opening times for 12 months from the date of purchase. Depending on your ticket type, they also include entry to the Sculpture Exhibition and Christmas opening.
Do you offer private group visits?
Yes. We welcome private group visits to the Hall and Gardens throughout the season, subject to availability. We offer both guided private tours and self-guided group visits for pre-booked groups. Please contact our team to discuss your requirements and make a booking.
Do I need to book before visiting the Hall & Gardens?
We recommend booking your Hall tickets online in advance to guarantee your preferred entry time, especially during busy periods. Gardens-only tickets can usually be purchased on arrival at the Gatehouse, subject to availability.
How accessible are the Gardens?
Most of the five-acre gardens are accessible by wheelchair using a network of ramps and graded paths. As many of the routes are grass and gravel, they can be more challenging for standard wheelchairs, particularly in wet weather. An accessible route map is available from the Gatehouse.
Is parking available for Hall & Gardens visitors?
Yes. Free parking is available close to the Hall & Gardens entrance, including designated Blue Badge spaces. Coach parking is also available for pre-booked group visits.
Can I bring my dog into the Hall & Gardens?
Dogs are not permitted in the Hall or gardens, except for registered assistance dogs. Well behaved pups are welcome to explore our walking trails, our Home and Clothing store, the Grain Store café and outside in the Farm Shop Café courtyard.
How long should I allow for my visit?
You are welcome to stay as long as we are open! Most visitors spend between two and four hours exploring the Hall, gardens and wider estate. You can also make a full day of your visit by enjoying the cafés, shops and estate walks. With accommodation on-site, you can even book to stay the night!
Can I donate to the upkeep of Doddington Hall?
Yes. As a privately owned historic estate, Doddington Hall relies on visitor income and charitable support to help conserve the Hall, Gardens and collections for future generations. You can support this work by making a donation to the Doddington Conservation Charity or by purchasing a season ticket.
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