Home of the MacLeod Matthews family, this 15th & 16th century Manor House with fortified tower is the original home of the Earls of Bedford, visited by Henry VIII and Elizabeth 1. Elizabeth was a frequent visitor, first coming as an infant in 1534 and as Queen she visited on several occasions, once being for a six week period. The Bedford Mausoleum is in the adjacent Church. The House contains tapestries and furniture mainly of the 16th and 17th centuries, hiding places and a collection of antique dolls. Art Exhibitions are held throughout the season in the newly restored 16th century Pavilion with its unusual cellars. The Manor is surrounded by five acres of enchanting gardens which have been featured in many publications and on television. It is famed for the spring display of tulips. From early June there is a succession of colour in the Tudor Sunken Garden, the White Garden, Herbaceous Borders and Fountain Court. The Physic Garden contains a wide selection of medicinal and culinary herbs. In the Parterre is an ancient Oak and a complicated Yew Maze while the Kitchen Garden is in Victorian style with unusual vegetables and fruit. Attractive dried and fresh flower arrangements decorate the house. Winner of the Historic Houses Association and Christie’s Garden of the Year 2009 Award.