The reason we swung by Saffron Walden again was to take a look at Audley End which we couldn’t fit in last time.

Audley End has been described as one of the finest Jacobean houses in England.

The hedge on the left above is a curious looking feature:-

House Entrance:-

Audley End’s grounds were laid out by Capability Brown – as these two photos – showing diffrent bridges – would suggest:-

During World War 2 the house was a training centre for the Polish contingent of the Special Operation Executive (SOE.) This memorial to the 108 members who died as a result of their service lies in the grounds to the front right of the house:-

Unfortunately when we visited last week Chatsworth House was swathed in plastic and scaffolding so we never actually saw the frontage. They don’t miss a trick though. For an extra contribution you could go on a scaffolding tour. (We gave that one a miss.)

This is the stable block – which is big enough on its own.

There’s a quadrangle inside the block with buildings all the way round with shops, eateries etc. The only selling opportunity missed was that there was a lack of a decent plant sale outlet. The only plants they had for sale were pretty poor specimens. It’s difficult not to get other folk in the photos. The place was stowed.

The grounds and gardens are huge. You could spend the whole day doing them alone. This is the Emperor Fountain and Canal Pond, complete with sculptures. The Cavendish family, whose home it is, seem to be very fond of their art. The house and grounds are liberally sprinkled with works old and new.

I especially liked these rock formations – probably artificial; Capability Brown landscaped the estate.

I suppose this one shows off Brown’s handiwork.

This pond was up a hill. You cannot see the house from it at all. More of Brown’s efforts I should think. The photo was taken from a grotto perched like an eyrie above it.

As we were leaving a couple of Morgan cars pulled into the car park. I waited till the drivers had left before taking the picture.