Gawthorpe Hall

North of Burnley, on the eastern outskirts of Padiham, 0.75 mile drive to house on the north of the A671 Gawthorpe Hall is a three-storey Jacobean house, set on the edge of the Penines, which today finds itself surrounded by the industrial region of south Lancashire. The estate was in the hands of the Shuttleworth family for 200 years before the present house was built between 1600 - 1605 for Sir Richard Shuttleworth, a wealthy Elizabethan barrister. The Hall represents an important milestone in the evolution of English domestic architecture, with innovations in style and plan. 17th century decoration survives and the long gallery is hung with early 17th century portraits, many on loan from the National Portrait Gallery. The Hall is now in the care of the National Trust. more information

Rufford Old Hall

Rufford Old HallIn village of Rufford, 7 miles north of Ormskirk, on east side of A59 Rufford Old Hall the home of the Hesketh family, grew over three separate periods.In 1420 Sir Thomas Hesketh built a half-timbered manor house, establishing the family seat for 350 years. Legend maintains that Shakespeare performed in the great hall. In 1661 the Carolean wing was built, and in the 1820's a castellated tower was added. In 1936 the Hall was transferred to the National Trust by Lord Hesketh, including a collection of arms and armour and 17th century oak furniture. Outbuildings at the hall house the Philip Ashcroft Folk Museum. more information