Melbourne Hall is an elegant mansion with a poolside setting, surrounded by beautiful grounds.
The original house was built in the 12th century as the residence of the Bishops of Carlisle. Over the following years the lease of the house passed through many hands.
Most of the lessees neglected the house and by the time Sir Francis Needham bought the lease he felt it was necessary to demolish a large part of the house and build a new one.
The fine house seen today is his work. The next owner was Sir John Coke and his descendant Lord Ralph Kerr and his family still live at the house. Melbourne Hall is superbly furnished and has many splendid works of art. As a family home Melbourne has a warm, friendly atmosphere which is appreciated by visitors.
The notable Lamb family, who became Lords Melbourne, lived at Melbourne Hall. Lady Caroline Lamb, the wife of the 2nd Viscount Melbourne was the mistress of Lord Byron. This notorious affair lead to her formal separation from her husband in 1825.
The 2nd Viscount later became the first Prime Minister of Queen Victoria's reign and the city of Melbourne in Australia is named after him.
The grounds at Melbourne Hall are celebrated. The gardens were laid out in the late-17th century in the French formal style by Henry Wise and George London.
Wise was gardener to Queen Ann and extremely fashionable at the time. There are magnificent avenues and long vistas with statues. Terraces stretch down to the lake and on the south side of the house are mixed borders. To the west is a splendid yew tunnel. There is also an intricate wrought iron arbour designed by Robert Bakewell.
House: Aug: 14:00-16:15, daily except first three Mondays; Gardens: Apr-Sept: 13:3-17:30 Wed,Sat,Sun and Bank Holiday Mon
Tel: 01332 862502 Melbourne Hall Website
