Eastbury Manor House unveils new guidebook and digital experience

Key Points

• Eastbury Manor House has launched a new guidebook and digital experience featuring audio tours and interactive content.
• The guidebook provides detailed history, architecture info, and stories of past residents.
• The digital guide works on smartphones and tablets, offering a modern way to explore the house.
• The manor dates back to 1560-1573 and is set in tranquil heritage gardens in Barking, Essex.
• Visitors can join guided tours led by volunteers, attend exhibitions, and participate in workshops.
• The house has specific opening times and admission fees with concessions and group booking options.
• Facilities include an accessible building with toilets, baby changing, free Wi-Fi, lockers, and a café serving local produce.
• Monthly family-friendly events and educational activities are available.
• Volunteers play a key role in hosting tours and community events.

What features does the new guidebook offer?

The new guidebook at Eastbury Manor House contains rich historical insights, architectural details, and stories about the people who once lived and worked there. It combines high-quality photographs and illustrations, making the Elizabethan heritage of the manor accessible and engaging for visitors.

How does the digital experience enhance visitor engagement?

The digital guide, developed with Bloomberg Connects, provides audio tours and interactive content accessible via smartphones and tablets. This modern approach allows visitors to explore at their own pace and delve deeper into the manor’s history with multimedia features, including virtual tours that unlock behind-the-scenes areas not usually open to the public.

What is the historical significance of Eastbury Manor House?

Built between 1560 and 1573, Eastbury Manor House is a rare surviving example of an Elizabethan gentry house constructed in brick. Set in tranquil heritage gardens in Barking, Essex, it houses original features such as a spiral oak staircase and early 17th-century wall paintings. The property has been preserved as a Grade I listed building and holds a rich history of ownership and use.

When is Eastbury Manor House open to visitors?

The manor is open Thursdays and Fridays from 10 am to 4 pm and Sundays from 11 am to 4 pm, with last admission at 3:30 pm. It remains closed on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday.

How can visitors explore the manor?

Visitors can take part in traditional guided tours led by knowledgeable volunteers, which reveal architectural details and fascinating historical stories. The new digital guide provides an alternative or complementary experience with audio narration and interactive elements, enabling self-guided discovery.

What facilities and services are available onsite?

Eastbury Manor House is fully wheelchair accessible, with lifts to upper floors and accessible toilets including baby changing. Lockers for visitor belongings and free Wi-Fi are available. The on-site café serves freshly prepared meals, homemade pastries, and locally sourced produce in a welcoming setting. The gift shop sells arts, crafts, books, and Tudor replica pottery.

What activities and events does the manor offer?

The house hosts permanent and temporary exhibitions, workshops, and monthly family-friendly events such as craft activities and trails. Community engagement is fostered through volunteer-led tours and educational programmes, making the manor a vibrant cultural hub.

How important are volunteers to Eastbury Manor House?

Volunteers are essential in hosting tours, organising workshops, and supporting events. They provide friendly, informed guidance and help create a welcoming atmosphere that enriches the visitor experience.

How can visitors obtain the guidebook and digital app?

The guidebook is available for purchase at the Eastbury Manor House shop on visiting days. The digital experience app can be downloaded from major app platforms to enhance both onsite visits and remote exploration.