The original hall was built in approximately 1250 but it was heavily modernised in Tudor times to the building we see today. The inner courtyard dates from 1290 while the house was last modernized during the reign of Charles the 1st. The Manor at Much Marcle was started by French Monks in the 11th Century. There is a legend of a secret tunnel under Hellens that may contain treasure hidden by the monks when they faced hostile Britons. A Baron Court was created there in 1301 and gallows were set up in the grounds. In 1346 the Black Prince at Crecy stayed at Hellens, and his crest is seen on the fireplace in the stone hall while he also ate at the stone table in the hall, which used to be an altar. In approx 1525 Princess Mary (Mary Tudor) visited Hellens, while Catholic monks were also taken in, as well as one being given a job there as a caretaker. There was a secret Cavalier HQ at Hellens, however roundheads gained access and cornered the monk in Bloody Mary's Bedroom where he was killed - it is not known where he was buried. At the end of 17th century Hetty Walwyn ran off with a young man beneath her social class and she was forced to return home where she was branded a social disgrace and locked in her room for 30 years, where it is said she went mad. Paranormal activity has included the ghost of a monk in Bloody Mary's room while the it is also believed that the spirit of Hetty Walwyn has been seen in the room where she was locked away, which has also experienced much poltergeist activity. The ghost of a man, thought to be Sir Philip Musgrave (his portrait hangs at Hellens) has also been seen in the music room.