The history of Hengrave is as captivating as its visual splendour. Built in 1525 by a wealthy cloth merchant, Thomas Kytson, the Hall is a stunning example of the great architecture of medieval England and took almost thirteen years to complete.
Composed of brick and stonework, its structure reveals the Roman influence over the Tudors and, despite its fifteenth-century embellishments, certain features disclose its Saxon origins, such as the church tower just east of the Hall itself.
Every corner of Hengrave holds an enviable tale: in 1578, Sir Thomas Kytson the younger entertained Queen Elizabeth on her progress to and from Norwich. Although it is rumoured that Kytson was somewhat compromised on the issue of religion and became an object of suspicion for a time to the Elizabethan court, Elizabeth herself was still charmed by her stay at Hengrave. It was during this momentous occasion that she was presented by her host with an undoubtedly rich jewel; in return, Queen Elizabeth knighted Thomas Kytson.
Many further tales across the centuries are to be unravelled in Hengrave’s treasure-trove of secrets: a turbulent marriage; the invasion of Cromwell’s soldiers; a daughter desired by three suitors and married to each in turn; a Baronet by Charles II; a page of honour to Louis XIV; the Canonesses of St Augustine; and a heritage lasting nine generations. In 1896, much of Hengrave was restored to its former splendour when Sir John Wood renovated the great Banquetting Hall, the chapel, the gallery and its summer parlour. He also built an annexe to replace the infamous ‘de Hemegrave wing’ that was demolished in 1775. This annexe later served as a hospital during the First World War. In 1952, the Hall became the property of the Assumption nuns, who turned it into a boarding school for girls. The school was then closed in 1974, and Hengrave Hall was converted into an Ecumenical Retreat and Conference Centre.
Now, listed Grade 1 and esteemed to be of considerable architectural and historic importance, Hengrave Hall is a rich jewel itself in the heart of Suffolk’s astounding countryside.