Community directory

Rye House Gatehouse

This building is located in Rye Road, Hoddesdon, Herts.

The Gatehouse is all that remains of Sir Andrew Ogard’s once extensive manor house. Built in 1443 the Gatehouse (now a Grade I listed building) still retains features of the manor’s splendid architecture and fine early English brickwork. It is considered to be one of the finest medieval moated sites in Hertfordshire.

Richard Rumbold lived in the house in 1683 and it was he who helped to hatch the Rye House Plot, an unsuccessful conspiracy to assassinate King Charles II and his brother, the Duke of York.

An exhibition within the Gatehouse colourfully displays the turbulent history of Rye House and the once beautiful Victorian pleasure park which was created to provide a playground for Londoners.

Exhibition, information desk and small shop. School and group visits by arrangement. The Rye House pub and RSPB Nature Reserve are also close by.

Opening times:
Easter Sunday until the end of September. Saturdays, Sundays, Bank Holiday Monday & Special events 11.00am – 5.00pm. Open at other times for school and group visits by arrangement only.