Thursday 26 May 2011

Kentwell Hall

Kentwell Hall, in Suffolk, is a beautiful example of a Tudor home. It is open to the public and allows visitors to see all the gardens, farm and most of the House's interior. Built sometime between 1500 and 1550, It has had many owners over the last 500 years and has seen many changes. The impact from all the various families can be seen today, but generally the house and moat remain the same as they were in the early 16th century. 

A recent visit to Kentwell hall in Suffolk was greatly enjoyed as our trip coincided with the sheering of their Norfolk Horn Sheep.

I have seen at county shows that sheering can be completed quite quickly, but what will never cease to amaze me is the fact that the sheep don't seem to mind the ordeal. I imagine they feel quite refreshed to have had such a warm heavy weight removed prior to the Summer months. 

Throughout the farm and other outbuildings, you can find actors playing the parts of everyday Tudor life. These recreations began in 1979 and are still very much enjoyed today. With our love of natural fibres and traditional skills, we thought we would like to share a couple of images of traditional Tudor crafts. Firstly, a lady preparing wool for felting and then finally, single ply wool (from Kentwell's farm) being woven into fabric on a handloom.

If you are interested in Kentwell hall and would like to learn more, please visit the official website!