The Estate: History

Heacham Manor was built in 1580 in the reign of Elizabeth I. The first inhabitants are thought to be Cluniac monks and the signs of religious influence can still be seen in the designs of the porchway and main door.

Certain stories even talk of an underground tunnel linking the House with the ruined chapel that you still see today on your right as you drive up the hill into nearby Hunstanton.

Heacham village itself became a focal point during the reign of James Ist during the early 17thC when the pilgrims and settlers were voyaging to the east coast of the Americas. It was one of Heacham’s famous sons, John Rolfe, who was one of those early settlers and married the Indian princess Pocahantas. It is assumed that John Rolfe would have brought his princess wife, with their son, back to Heacham during her brief visit to our shores in 1617.

A further indication of the house’s age is the Mulberry tree situated next to the arbortorium in the garden. Local historians believe that these trees were planted in the reign of James I in order to promote the production of silk. Our Mulberry tree is therefore 400 years old and it is hoped that under our care it will last another century.

During the 19th century the house was used as a farmhouse, the landlord being the Styleman LeStrange family – owners of a large area of land in the local area and famous for the planning and development of Hunstanton in 1850.

In the last century the house has been predominately used as a farmhouse. Notable owners include the Tennison family who invited a member of the famous Norfolk cricketing famil,y the Edrich's to manage the property around the time of the 2nd world war. It was during this time that farmhands remember the visit of one Bill Edrich with friend Dennis Compton to the house. They account the cricket matches played on the lawn by two of England’s finest ever cricket players.

The house is Grade II listed and having been carefully renovated and restored, we hope to ensure its fine history is conserved.

The house is now open as a charming country hotel with fine dining and golf. Non- residents are most welcome.