England’s tallest Tudor gatehouse offers visitors magnificent views to the Blackwater estuary and beyond. On a clear day you can even see St Cedd’s Chapel on the Dengie peninsula. As you climb the tower you can pause and admire Manderley – the exquisite dolls house made by Pat Camp. Stop at the History Room to learn more about the buildings’ past and see the model of how Layer Marney Tower may have looked had Lord Marney lived to complete his palace.

The view from the roof shows the church, outbuildings, play area, gardens, estate and wildlife walk. Layer Marney Tower is a great place to visit whether you are planning to exhaust the children in the play area or enjoy the tranquillity of the garden. The Tearoom, situated in the Old Stables, offers a range of light lunches as well as tea and cakes. Next door is the shop, stocked with a selection of souvenirs, gifts, cards and local produce.