Sutton House and Breaker’s Yard in Hackney is a Tudor treasure with a twist—open Fridays and Sundays from 11am to 4pm, with guided tours available. No booking needed for self-led visits, but tour slots fill fast.
Sutton House and Breaker’s Yard: Hackney’s Historic Heartbeat
In the vibrant borough of Hackney, Sutton House and Breaker’s Yard offers a rare blend of Tudor architecture, radical history, and urban creativity. Built in 1535 for Sir Ralph Sadleir, Principal Secretary to Henry VIII, this red-brick manor is one of London’s oldest surviving domestic buildings—and one of its most surprising.
Why It Matters: 500 Years of Reinvention
Sutton House has lived many lives: Tudor mansion, Georgian home, Victorian school, and squatters’ refuge. Today, it’s a National Trust property that celebrates Hackney’s layered past and creative present. Inside, you’ll find:
- Oak-panelled Tudor rooms
- Jacobean wall paintings
- Victorian and Georgian additions
- Breaker’s Yard, a playful outdoor space with upcycled art and community gardens
It’s a place where history meets activism, and where every room tells a different story.
What to See (and Snap!)
- The Linenfold Parlour: Intricate woodwork and moody lighting
- The Painted Staircase: A dramatic ascent through centuries
- Breaker’s Yard: Quirky installations and colorful murals
- The Courtyard Garden: A peaceful spot for portraits and reflection
When to Visit
Sutton House is open Fridays and Sundays from 11am to 4pm. You can explore at your own pace or join a guided tour:
- Fridays: Tours at 11am, 1pm, and 2:30pm
- Sundays: Tours at 12pm, 1:30pm, and 3pm
Booking is recommended for tours, though a few walk-up tickets are available.
Reserve here: Sutton House and Breaker’s Yard – National Trust
Where to Eat Nearby
Hackney’s food scene is as eclectic as its history. Here are top-rated spots near Sutton House:
- Big Night Bar & Restaurant Hackney: Modern European dishes and cocktails in a stylish setting
- DALLA: Rustic Italian fare with handmade pasta and natural wines
- El Ganso Cafe: Spanish tapas with a cozy, casual vibe
- LARDO: Industrial-chic pizzeria with brunch and small plates
- Falafel house Lebanese: Flavor-packed wraps and mezze at budget-friendly prices
- Narrow Kitchen: Brunch favorites and specialty coffee
- Well Street Kitchen London: Snug café for creative breakfasts and light lunches
- Great Indian Food: Highly rated Indian cuisine with generous portions
How to Get to Sutton House and Breaker’s Yard from NX London Hostel
Destination Address: 2 and 4 Homerton High Street, Hackney, London, E9 6JQ
Opening Hours: Fridays and Sundays, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM (guided tours available)
By Public Transport:
- Walk to New Cross Gate Station (5 mins).
- Take the Overground northbound to Highbury & Islington.
- Transfer to the Overground eastbound and ride to Hackney Central Station.
- Walk ~10 minutes via Homerton High Street to Sutton House.
Total travel time: ~40–45 minutes
Estimated cost: £2.80 with Oyster/contactless
Key Takeaways
- Sutton House and Breaker’s Yard is a Tudor building in Hackney, showcasing 500 years of history and creativity.
- Visitors can explore Tudor rooms, Jacobean paintings, and quirky outdoor art in Breaker’s Yard.
- Open Fridays and Sundays from 11am to 4pm, guided tours are available for booking, but self-led visits are welcome.
- Nearby, Hackney offers diverse dining options, including modern European, Italian, and Spanish cuisines.
- Easily accessible from NX London Hostel via public transport, Sutton House is a unique cultural escape.
Final Thought
Sutton House isn’t just old—it’s bold. From Tudor politics to punk squats, it’s Hackney’s living scrapbook, waiting for your next page.
