The Red House, Aldeburgh
A place of gentle discoveries.
You might begin with a painting that leads to the studio, that takes you to a garden path and before you realise it, you’ve spent hours exploring, listening, looking, marvelling.
The Red House was the home of Britain’s most famous 20th Century composer Benjamin Britten and his partner, the singer Peter Pears. A place shaped by curiosity, hospitality and a love of art, design, music and nature. More than a home, this is their story.
Benjamin Britten was one of the greatest composers of the twentieth century. He wrote a vast amount of incredible music and wanted everyone to enjoy it – professional and amateur musicians, music enthusiasts, children and families.
The farmhouse, nestled in a beautiful five-acre garden, is home to their collections and archive, alongside a gallery space, museum shop and refreshments. Visitors can explore Britten and Pears' house, with its classic 1950s/60s interiors with a mix of formal and cosy and an eclectic range of books, art, and furniture. The large garden reflects their tastes in flowers and plants are for wandering around and enjoying the peace and quiet of this beautiful corner of Suffolk.
The Red House Archive is home to Britten and Pears’ music manuscripts, papers, rare books and art collection. It is open by appointment for anyone to visit and is the most complete composer archive in the world. As well as the manuscript scores of almost all Britten’s works – from his earliest childhood right up to his death – it contains working papers, letters, costume designs, set designs and set models, and an extensive collection of programmes.
There are wonderful exhibitions to enjoy in 2026. 'Spiritual Britten’, looks at the defining moments and works that illustrate his motivations as a composer: his passions and the beliefs that shaped him and the works he created. In the Kitchen Gallery ‘Before Life and
After’ runs until 30th June, highlighting the people who shaped Benjamin Britten’s final years. Contemporary artists Ada Bond and DaddyBears will be exhibiting in the summer.
Also onsite is a small refreshment area offering a place to pause, and the museum shop that includes a selection of products inspired by Britten and Pears along with home fragrance products and small gifts.
There is level access across the site and accessible toilets and Blue Badge parking available. The Composition studio and upper rooms of the house are accessed by stairs only. Illustrative films are available upon request.
Admission includes entry to the house, library, composition studio, exhibitions & garden. We recommend you allocate 4-6hrs to go around the site. Guided tours and Art tours are available on Wednesdays (Booking is essential). On Thursdays and Fridays there is also the option to visit the Archive.
Why not enjoy The Red House a little longer by booking a stay at one of their holiday properties. To find out more visit:
brittenpearsarts.org/stay
Attraction name:
The Red House, Aldeburgh
Price:
Price: Adults: £11, Under 18's: free, 19-25:£5.50,Disabled Customer: £5.50, Carers: free, Art Fund: £5.50(valid for 1 day), Museums Association Members: free, Garden Only: £5.00
Opening Hours: