Samlesbury Hall

Built in 1325, Samlesbury Hall is steeped in fascinating history, retaining its original typical black and white exterior. Enjoy intrigue, witchcraft and centuries of enthralling times gone by throughout their archive rooms. Saved from demolition in the 1920s by six local businessmen, it remains in the care of the Charitable Trust today with the aim of maintaining and keeping open for visitors to enjoy.

From the Tudor priest holes to the Victorian kitchen, the Hall has history from (and for) every age. With the turbulent tales of its Catholic families, witches and the haunting of Lady Dorothy (and other ghost stories), a captivating insight into life from the early 14th to the 21st century is all waiting to be discovered.

The Hall also boasts an award-winning restaurant, a shop brimming with top quality gifts and Dottie’s - Britain’s first ever wafflery. Outside, explore the gardens, the rosarium and the woodland walks. Visit the animals (including hens that supply the eggs for the kitchen) and get close to honeybees (safely behind glass of course) at the bee and heritage centre.

On Sundays you can join on regular tours with a twist… don’t miss hilarious Janey the witch or the King of England, Henry VIII himself! All tours are completely free to join, along with free admission.

Can we eat?

The restaurant at Samlesbury has the highest quality taste award from Visit Lancashire and Dottie’s Wafflery (the first of its kind!) is not to be missed. Ice-cream, milkshakes and scrumptious afternoon teas are always popular, or enjoy the finest roast in Lancashire (even with a Yorkshire pudding). Al fresco dining in the historic courtyard, sorry no picnics please.

What if we want to stay?

The Shepherd’s Hut Hamlet is the perfect retreat if you’re travelling from outside the county, although it’s popular with the locals too…The huts have en-suite shower rooms and the comfiest beds for the best nights' sleep, while the setting brings a rural edge to a short break. Toasting marshmallows on the fire pit is a must! Finish off your stay with the best breakfast in Lancashire.

Can I bring the kids?

The Hall’s ethos is to become a great place for visitors of all ages. Every half term and through the school holidays don’t miss Betsy Bumblebee who will have you in stitches with her stories, crafts and hunts around the Hall. Santa makes a visit in December, who has his very own sitting room at Samlesbury and you can meet him by the fire.

Nestled in the woods is the Mayflower playground, where you can climb in through the windows of the miniature Hall and brave the rope bridge across to the Mayflower ship! There is also a charming wooden trail; with bridges, swings and lots of fun obstacles for the whole family to enjoy.

Meet the pygmy goats, pigs, miniature sheep, rabbits, guinea pigs and the rescued hens in the ever increasing menagerie; plus be fascinated by the working hives of honey bees at the bee centre.

When can we visit?

The Hall is open all year round from 10am – 4pm, closing only on Saturdays and occasional Fridays for weddings. Please do make sure to check the opening times on the Hall’s website before you travel.

How much does it cost to come in?

Entry to the Hall and grounds is completely free and there is absolutely no charge to park either. The Hall relies on donations and any money spent there, whether it be for a freshly made waffle in Dottie’s, a postcard from the shop or a cuppa in the coffee lounge; any contribution is appreciated. 

All profit is returned straight back to the Hall to keep the building open for the public to enjoy, registered charity number 526052.

​​​​​​​The entire site is dog friendly.