It’s a place I went to often as a child and a regular day out whenever the relations came over from Italy; they loved the hall, to them it was the epitome of an English house (and a fine example of one to boot!) which they still talk about to this day. So, going back to Samlesbury Hall after some time and having the benefit of Director Sharon Jones as guide, was a bit of a revelation.
Things have changed at Samlesbury. Not the wonderful moment you turn the corner on the drive to see the splendour of the black and white timbers or, the beautifully kept gardens (literally springing-into new life after our seemingly endless winter) no, the real changes are within the hall itself.
The atmosphere, heavy with history remains, yet, for a large house, I think it feels quite homely; easy to imagine a family living there and working the gardens; small dogs darting around stopping only to watch the bees zipping in and out of daffodils, chives, wild garlic and dill.
The entrance today is modest, leading straight into a relaxing cafe with leather sofas, the aroma of coffee (and cake – which I spotted heading to table of eager young boys, out with mum for the day.) In my day they were check covered table cloths, tea pots and scones under glass, now, a cappuccino and ‘sex in the city style cup cake’ is certainly not out of place. The cafe and adjacent stylish dining room (for more substantial tasty dishes) are both Taste Lancashire accredited, so you know it’s of the highest quality and from local producers. I know I’ll be back here again.
Sharon exudes enthusiasm for the hall, after 9 years it’s so very obviously a home from home for her and she knows every little creak, wobbly floor board and ghost intimately. “Oh yes, one day I got a definite shove. Not just a push, a shove!” She assures me she’s never felt threatened, the original homeowners perhaps just reminding her that she’s only looking after it - for them.
The main hall is just as amazing, in its detail, glazing and decoration, the beautifully crafted fireplace and minstrels gallery dominating. We move through the house, Sharon talking through the additions to the original building, into the deconsecrated chapel and upstairs to what were the bedrooms – where a carved stone fireplace entreats the residents to ‘Love one another’. A brief step up into the Priest Hole where, despite hundreds of years scrubbing, the alleged blood of the murdered priest still stains the floor.
Quickly moving on.... Sharon introduces a newly installed Victorian cooking range that will become part of the new interpretation of life at the hall through the ages, with demonstrations and perhaps even the odd celebrity dining experience. Two airy gallery spaces filled with work by local artists are increasingly popular “They’re all local artists, all Lancashire – I wouldn’t have it any other way” says Sharon, pointing out a series of small canvasses “I’ve bought one of those”. Passing through another charming room full of curios, antiques and bric-a-brac for sale the space opens up again to a bright new shop full of Lancashire produce from leather bags to Samlesbury’s own honey, and amazing designer cushions made with cotton from the last remaining cotton mill in Lancashire by Ian Mankin (who I’m told designed costumes for The Beatles). Now this IS a find – tucked at the back of the hall a place to buy a genuine Lancashire gift and, for every shopaholic out there, the perfect way to end a trip to Samlesbury.
(I haven’t even started on the new outdoor attractions ....let’s just say small animals (awww), beautiful gardens, even a labyrinth, all great ways to keep the kids amused...)
I’ve fallen back in love with Samlesbury Hall!
Anna Izza
Sounds like you had a fab time at Samlesbury Hall Anna, it sounds like they're really making the most of the amazing building.
You must return in the evening next time and witness the hall in it's 'night-time setting'. Think lots of candles which makes for a great setting for ghost stories!
Posted by: Kate Roberts | 20 April 2010 at 10:18 AM