
Tymperleys historic house
A historic Tudor merchant house with a tranquil walled garden and a unique clock collection, offering a peaceful retreat in Colchester.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the garden's tranquility

Tymperleys historic house
Best Time
Enjoy the garden's tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Tudor merchant house with a tranquil walled garden and a unique clock collection, offering a peaceful retreat in Colchester.
"A peaceful Tudor gem with a beautiful garden and fascinating clocks, a must-visit before it closes!"

⏳ Last Chance to Visit
The cafe at Tymperleys closes September 2025. Plan your visit soon to experience this historic gem!
🌸 Garden Serenity
Take time to wander through the tranquil walled garden for a peaceful escape.

Quick Facts
Rating
5 · 1 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Tudor Merchant House
Colchester
Step back in time in this 15th-century merchant house, once home to Elizabeth I's physician.

Tranquil Walled Garden
Garden
A peaceful oasis offering a serene escape in the heart of Colchester town.

Remarkable Clock Collection
Interior
Admire the unique and extensive collection of clocks gifted to the town by the Mason family.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Tudor Gem with a Clock Collection
Plan Your Visit Before Closure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Last Chance to Visit
The cafe at Tymperleys closes September 2025. Plan your visit soon to experience this historic gem!
🌸 Garden Serenity
Take time to wander through the tranquil walled garden for a peaceful escape.
🕰️ Clock Enthusiast's Dream
Don't miss the fascinating collection of clocks, a unique feature of Tymperleys.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Last Chance to Visit
The cafe at Tymperleys closes September 2025. Plan your visit soon to experience this historic gem!
🌸 Garden Serenity
Take time to wander through the tranquil walled garden for a peaceful escape.
🕰️ Clock Enthusiast's Dream
Don't miss the fascinating collection of clocks, a unique feature of Tymperleys.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tymperleys is cherished for its historical Tudor architecture and the serene walled garden, offering a peaceful escape. Visitors appreciate the unique clock collection and the charming cafe atmosphere. However, the impending closure of the cafe in September 2025 is a significant point of note for potential visitors.
"A brief history about this building in Colchester Town, located opposite to the Holy Trinity Church - Tymperleys is a historic Tudor merchant house set in a tranquil walled garden, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of Colchester. Built in the 1490s for John Tymperley, steward to the Duke of Norfolk, it was later home to Elizabeth I’s physician, William Gilberd, a pioneer in the study of magnetism.
In the 20th century, Bernard and Evelyn Mason lived here and gifted the house and their remarkable clock collection to the town. After careful restoration by the Charrington family, Tymperleys was converted as a restaurant and tearoom. This cafe is closing September 2025."
Anith John
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tymperleys is located in the heart of Colchester town, opposite Holy Trinity Church. It's easily accessible by foot if you're already in the town center. For those arriving by car, there are several car parks nearby, though they can get busy. Public transport options include local bus routes that stop within walking distance.
Yes, there are several public car parks in Colchester town center close to Tymperleys. Some are pay-and-display. It's advisable to check local parking apps or signs for the most up-to-date information on availability and charges.
Colchester train station is a short taxi ride or a bus journey from the town center where Tymperleys is located. While it's a longer walk, it's feasible for those who enjoy a stroll, taking approximately 20-30 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the historic house and its grounds is generally free, though donations are welcome. The cafe operates separately, and you can enjoy its offerings without an entry fee for the house itself.
Opening hours can vary, especially for the cafe. It's highly recommended to check the official Tymperleys website or contact them directly for the most current opening times before your visit, as the cafe is closing in September 2025.
The tranquil walled garden is part of the Tymperleys historic house experience and is typically accessible without a separate admission fee. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings as part of your visit.
The cafe at Tymperleys is scheduled to close permanently in September 2025. This is your last opportunity to experience the venue as a restaurant and tearoom.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic Tudor merchant house, admire the unique clock collection, and relax in the beautiful walled garden. The cafe also offers a place to enjoy refreshments.
Absolutely! Tymperleys is renowned for its tranquil walled garden, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful afternoon escape from the bustle of Colchester.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted within Tymperleys, especially in the garden. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and any specific rules regarding photography inside the house.
Built in the 1490s, it was a home for John Tymperley and later for William Gilberd, physician to Elizabeth I. The Mason family's donation of their clock collection also adds to its historical value.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The cafe at Tymperleys historically offered a selection of meals, including popular items like curry chips and pies, alongside traditional cafe fare. It was known for providing a pleasant dining experience.
The cafe at Tymperleys is open until September 2025. After this date, it will cease operations. Make sure to visit before the closure.
While specific menus can change, cafes like Tymperleys often have vegetarian options. It's best to inquire directly with the cafe staff about current vegan or vegetarian choices available.











Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit