Madingley Hall and Gardens emerge as community "sanctuary"

Last August, Inside ICE learned how staff at Madingley Hall adapted and served their community in the the first months of the pandemic. We caught up with Hall Operations Manager, Matthew Brazier, to find out what’s happened since and the upcoming plans for all at the Hall. 

“It’s been a tough time for everyone, not least the teams working here, but one thing the last twelve months has given us is a chance to be creative. It’s been brilliant to welcome the public on a regular basis. The gardens and our dog- and cycle-friendly café have stayed open since July last year, displaying fantastic artwork by local artist Jonny Boatfield. People have seen the gardens as a hidden treasure, a sanctuary in difficult times. 

“Everyone has had to think on their feet as the situation changes. It’s been inspiring how staff have supported each other and pitched in – for example, housekeeping staff helping to drive food deliveries to our village neighbours. The way everyone has pulled together has been a bright spot during a difficult year. 

“We’re still serving the local community with our food delivery and takeaway service. The run-up to Christmas was busy as we delivered festive food hampers, invited diners into our COVID-safe Hall for a few weeks and even managed to squeeze in a small regulation-compliant December wedding. It was really a magical occasion for us and for the couple who had this grand old hall practically to themselves. 

Lifting the lid on Hall conservation 

“Although it was planned before any of us had heard of COVID-19, it’s been a good time for the Hall to be wrapped in scaffolding while much-needed roof repairs take place. Historic building specialists have renewed the whole structure and replaced worn-out tiles. Considering some of the tiles have been up there in all weathers for over 200 years, many are still in good shape. The scaffolding’s down now, and we’re delighted with the big reveal. 

Summer outdoor events, open to all 

“We’re closely following Government guidelines for re-opening. We’ve now started welcoming visitors to The Lodge for holiday lets, recommenced Hall bed and breakfast and resumed serving meals both inside and outside, including bar meals on the terrace. As the gardens move into summer, it’s a lovely time to enjoy the environment. 

“Most of this year’s academic courses will continue to be delivered remotely, although we welcomed back some postgraduate students in late May. We’re proud to have stayed safely open as a training venue for critical workers, such as healthcare professionals and police officers, throughout the pandemic. 

“There are some great activities planned here over the summer too, hopefully outside and inside. The gardens have hosted Shakespeare plays and a fun pantomime in June, and we’ve got some outdoor cinema planned for July as well. We’re also running art workshops and hope to add private events and hands-on cookery and baking tutorials too. Keep an eye on the website as events get confirmed.” 

Learn more

For the latest updates on opening times and planned events at Madingley Hall and Gardens, visit their website. 

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This article was originally published in our Long-Vacation - Michaelmas issue of Inside ICE.