Rye House Gatehouse
Rye Road
Hertfordshire
W: Website »
The Gatehouse was built in 1443 and was once part of Sir Andrew Ogard's extensive manor house. Today, the house is a Grade I listed building and has retained much of its superb architecture and exceptional early English brickwork.
In 1683, there was an unsuccessful conspiracy to assassinate King Charles II and his brother, the Duke of York. The conspiracy was aided by Richard Rumbold, who lived in the manor house until 1683. It was due to this that the conspiracy is known as the 'Rye House Plot'.
The house has had a chaotic history and this is illustrated with an exhibition within the Gatehouse.
There is also an information desk and a small shop for people to visit. The Rye House Pub and RSPB Nature Reserve are nearby.
Paths throughout the site are suitable for visitors in wheelchairs. Unfortunately, the upper story of the Gatehouse and Tower is accessed by a spiral staircase, which is unsuitable for those with walking difficulties.
School and group visits are very welcome by arrangement.
The Gatehouse is open from Easter Sunday until the end of September.Saturdays, Sundays, Bank Holidays and special events, it is open from 11am until 5pm.