Park & garden
Parkland
Sheep enjoying a magnificent view of the Rotunda at Ickworth
Ickworth's historic park is a landscape of open grassland and large mature trees. The 1,800 acres are rich in plant, animal, and bird life. Some parts are cultivated and grazed, yet many areas are open for you to explore and enjoy.
Woodland
The evergreen wonderland of Ickworth
© Sean Reid
We have a belt of woodland that encircles almost the whole estate. All our woodlands are open to explore on foot, so feel free to 'go off the beaten track.'
Arable land
Sweeping view of the parkland at Ickworth, Suffolk
© Mark Nisbett
There are a few fields of arable land around the estate. These are remnants of the 'Dig for Victory' campaign during the Second World War. Areas of parkland were ploughed, the mature trees felled (sometimes with explosives) and then these areas were planted with food crops. As these fields come back to us from farm tenants, we are working to re-instate the original design of the parkland.
Estate management
This grand estate was designed and created by aristocrats to show off their social and financial status. Our team of rangers and gardeners now manage the estate for you all to enjoy.
The gardens
The gardens surrounding the Rotunda were created during the first half of the 19th-century by the First Marquess of Bristol. You can explore the Italianate gardens to the south, which features the Victorian stumpery.
Amazing views
There's also the secretive Victorian stumpery which children adore, and the Temple Rose Garden. There are great views across the parkland from the raised terrace, willing you to get your walking boots on and explore.
The walled garden
Beyond the church, you'll find remnants of an 18th-century walled garden designed by Ickworth's First Earl. His summerhouse and ornamental canal survive today. Don't miss the view beyond the lake towards the Rotunda.
Wildlife
There are a huge variety of birds, mammals and insects in our woodland and parkland. We can't guarantee that you'll see them when you visit, but check out our wildlife blackboard in the car park for the latest sightings.
Habitat
With over 900 acres, the park is well worth exploring
© Mark Nisbett
There are a variety of walks across the estate, taking in different habitats. Feel free to venture away from waymarked routes, respecting signage and arable fields, but enjoy parts of the park you haven't seen before.