Lancashire's Leighton Hall is the family home of the famous Gillow furniture makers. Fascinating and enjoyable tours of the house are available, and there are glorious gardens and parkland to explore, as well as woodland walks. Afternoon teas are available, and there's a regular displays of birds of prey.
Where is Leighton Hall located?
Nestled in a bowl of parkland with a backdrop of the Lakeland fells, Leighton Hall is just a 10 minute drive from junction 35 of the M6, and is easily accessed from both Carnforth and Lancaster.
What is the history of Leighton Hall to the present day?
Leighton Hall's recorded history goes back to 1246, with the first owner being an Adam D'Avranches. Leighton Hall has been in the hands of a further 26 owners since that date. With just one exception, every owner has been a Roman Catholic, and the history of the place is bound up with that fact. In Penal times, there was always a priest in hiding in the house, and in the 17th century, the owner, Albert Hodgson was actually jailed for his Catholicism, and Leighton Hall was put to the torch. The house was subsequently rebuilt by George Towneley, and the parkland was laid out and the woods replanted, with much evidence of this work still visible today. Richard Gillow, grandson of the founder of the Gillow furniture company, bought the house in 1822. Today, Leighton Hall is the family home of Suzie Gillow Reynolds and her family.
What is there to see and do at Leighton Hall?
All rooms open to the public are still in use by the Gillow family, and tours of the house are both fascinating and entertaining, and very informal. There are no roped off areas and visitors are encouraged to sit on the furniture and really get involved.There are also magnificent gardens and grounds to explore, as well as birds of prey displays (Weather permitting, summer season only). There is a gift shop and tea room. In August children are invited to participate in a free teddy bear treasure hunt.
Other Information
Leighton Hall offers the chance to explore a wonderful historic house and a fascinating family, with delightful gardens and grounds to discover too.
