Paycocke's House

Paycocke's House is a historically significant heritage site located in Coggeshall, Essex, England. Built in the early 16th century, it is a fine example of a timber-framed merchant's house from the Tudor period. The house is named after Thomas Paycocke, a wealthy cloth merchant who owned it in the late 15th century.

The exterior of Paycocke's House is characterized by its striking black and white timber frame, a traditional design popular during the Tudor era. The house features two stories, with a jettied upper floor projecting over the ground floor, supported by intricately carved wooden brackets. The timber framework is exposed and filled with wattle and daub, a traditional building technique using woven wooden strips and a mixture of mud, clay, and straw.

Inside, Paycocke's House showcases original features and period furnishings that provide visitors with a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy merchant class of the time. The rooms are adorned with oak paneling, ornate plasterwork, and decorative painted ceilings, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era.

The house also boasts a beautiful walled garden, which was restored to its original Tudor design in the 20th century. The garden features a variety of plants and herbs commonly used during the Tudor period, including roses, lavender, and herbs for culinary and medicinal purposes.

Today, Paycocke's House is owned and maintained by the National Trust, which opens it to the public as a heritage site. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history and architectural beauty of Tudor England.