Old Gorhambury House

Lovely walk in the sun. Easy to follow instructions on how to find. Easy walking mostly on tarmac roadway to get to it, very few people around. Far enough from the roads to be a super quiet location

A beautiful day out! The views are stunning and it is a lovely experience to walk through the ruins. You can really envisage what it must have been like in its heyday. I think people of all ages would enjoy a visit. Gorhambury house itself is closed to visitors as of summer 2021; it is undergoing major refurbishments. We met Viscountess Grimston, who informed us of some informative talks that will be held about the house, collections and refurbishment. Would recommend a visit.

This glorious set of ruins situated just on the outskirts of St Albans lies at the end of a 2 mile track but the trek there is well worth the effort. The extended hike means only the hardiest of those will choose to make the journey but plentiful solitude is ample encouragement.

Lovely small ruins surrounded by countryside with the cathedral in the distance. Saw 3 pheasants. Peaceful, we were the only ones there apart from 2 cyclists who went past. Tip - went on Thursday at 3pm as parking was available next to the ruins but check the website to be sure. Friendly staff member at the gate.

We enjoyed our visit to the Elizabethan mansion ruins. Met and had a little conversation with the honourable Viscountess Lady Rosanagh Grimston. She was a lovely person and told us about future events for visitors. Would love to learn about the history of such a remarkable place.

Truly impressive ruins of Elizabethan house surrounded by field with sheep, which was built by Sir Nicholas Bacon in 1560s, who was Lord Keeper of the Great Seal, and one of Queen Elizabeth Ist most important councillors.
The house was later inherited by the celebrated philosopher and scientist Sir Francis Bacon and purchased by the Grimston family in 1652. By the 18th century the house had fallen into an extreme state of disrepair and was abandoned.
There are no toilet facilities near by.
We have parked on the main road and walked about a mile through Gorhambury Estate gates.
They are open between 8: 00 am and 5:30 pm.
Gates locked at 6:00 pm.
Permissive paths are closed on certain days , including Saturdays from September to end of January.
You can also get to the main estate entrance by car, from main road , A4147, turn left.
At the roundabout , go straight over. Signposted St Albans city centre.
After 600m , immediately after pedestrian traffic lights , turn left and you will arrive to the main estate entrance.

Atmospheric ruin of the old Gorehambury House. The setting is stunning,. We cycled but a good walk from St Albans through secluded grounds.

It's a fair old walk up the drive but worth it