History of Lynford Hall

A Grade II listed mansion built in the Jacobean style designed by William Burn and constructed between 1857 and 1862 to replace a former hall built in 1720 by James Nelthorpe whose daughter married James Hoste, the then owner of Sandringham House. The property was built for Stephen Lyne-Stephens who married “Pauline” (Yolande Marie-Louise) Duvernay, the celebrated French ballerina. The property extended to 7,718 acres and was renowned as one of the finest sporting estates in East Anglia. There were many royal visitors to the estate with the magnificent ballroom the scene for many hunt balls. Now owned by Mansion House Weddings, Lynford Hall Hotel and Business Centre allows an opportunity for everybody to share the beautiful setting, either enjoying a quiet leisurely break amongst the Lakes, Parklands and thousands of acres of forest or alternatively as an ideal setting for your Business Meeting, Corporate Event, Wedding Day or just a Special Day with your friends and family.

Lynford Hall in 1903 - from the garden

Before and after the turn of the century saw many royal visitors such as Edward VII, George V and Queen Mary, Prince George (King George VI) and Edward VIII then Prince of Wales.

After a series of private ownerships some, 6,200 acres were sold in 1924 to the Forestry Commission which subsequently became Thetford Forest Park.

After fire damage the Forestry Commission purchased the property in 1930 and refurbished the mansion as a residence for Sir James Calder. After World War II when the house was used as an officer's hospital, it became a foresters training college.

In 1971 the Hall was not only a family home but a profitable business which became the setting for several popular television series including 'Allo Allo' and 'Dad's Army'.

Lynford Hall in 1903 - from the front courtyard