The Manor, Hemingford Grey

Step into History and Imagination at Hemingford Manor
One of the oldest continuously inhabited houses in Britain, Hemingford Manor was Lucy M. Boston’s home from 1939 and the setting for her beloved Green Knowe children’s books. Many of the toys and features mentioned in her stories remain in the house and gardens, so visitors truly feel as though they are stepping into the pages of her books.

A Literary and Artistic Legacy
In the winter, Lucy Boston created exquisite patchworks that form the only collection of this calibre worldwide, all on display in the rooms where they were made. During World War II, she gave gramophone recitals to RAF personnel in the Music Room, which remains virtually unchanged since 1130. The old EMG gramophone is still played during tours, bringing the past to life.

Historic Interiors
The Manor’s interiors reveal centuries of architectural history, from medieval origins to later adaptations. Original timber beams, period fireplaces, and other historic features sit alongside Lucy Boston’s literary and artistic legacy, creating a space that feels both a treasured historical landmark and a warm family home.

Gardens of Wonder
Boston transformed 3.5 acres into a magical garden, bordered by a moat on three sides and the River Great Ouse on the other. Long herbaceous borders are filled with scented plants of year-round interest. Highlights include coronation and chess topiary, many old roses, and Cedric Morris and Dykes Medal-winning irises. The garden blends formal planting with wild areas full of wildlife, offering children and adults alike a space for exploration and imagination.

A Family-Friendly Experience
Hemingford Manor is a place where literary history, horticultural beauty, and centuries of architecture combine to enchant visitors of all ages. Children can explore the gardens and discover the magic that inspired the Green Knowe series.

Visiting Hemingford Manor
Open on select days for guided tours, the Manor invites visitors to experience its interiors, gardens, and literary heritage at a leisurely pace, a truly captivating day out in Cambridgeshire.