Rufford Old Hall

Wednesday, 20 May 2009 01:00

Right alongside the Rufford Branch of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal is the old home of the Hesketh Family - Rufford Old Hall. As we are now members of the National Trust (again), thanks to our visit to Dunham Massey the other week, it was a "must see".

We wandered down the towpath towards Town Meadow swing bridge (8), passing the grounds on the way on the off-side. There is no access from the offside of the canal, so we crossed the bridge and walked about 100 yards left along the main Liverpool road to the entrance to Old Rufford Hall.

The entrance path to Old Rufford Great Hall

The Hall was built in 1530 by Sir Thomas Hesketh. Only The Great Hall survives today. A brick wing at right angles was added in 1662.

It contrasts with the medieval black and white timbering of the older Hall

In the 1820s a third wing was added, formed from the medieval domestic offices and a castellated tower. The family moved out in 1846 and in 1936 Thomas Fermor Hesketh gifted the building, a collection of arms and armour and the C17th oak furniture to the National Trust.

Back of Rufford Hall

It is reputed that William Shakespeare performed in the Great Hall whilst in service at the house. Supposedly there are three ghosts. The Grey Lady (Elizabeth Hesketh), in a wedding dress and waiting for her betrothed who had been killed in battle, haunts the main entrance and drive. A gentleman in Elizabethan dress might possibly be seen in the Great Hall. Surprisingly, Queen Bess (Elizabeth I) is supposed to haunt the dining room.

Of course, we saw none of the above, but did marvel at the splendid oak furniture, the Bog Oak wooden screen in the great Hall and the paintings and collections on display.

We really enjoyed the gardens, which are full of rhododendrons and other flowering shrubs. A few snapshots for your delectation.

Herbaceous border

Rhododendrons and Laburnum

Purple Rhodo

My favourite

The topiary is also a feature of the gardens, particularly the squirrels

This scarecrow amused us in the small kitchen garden

This lady (?) somehow got in this photo taken in the orchard!

Old Rufford Hall was certainly worth a visit, particularly at this time of year, with all the colour in the garden. We walked back towards Rufford, investigated the chemist, where my prescription was waiting for me, and the garage, which sells bits and pieces such as milk, cards, and staple groceries.

On the way back to the canal we took a closer look at St Mary's Church - yes it was closed. Prayer by appointment yet again?

St Mary's Church from the road

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