Extwistle Hall: A Tudor Legacy on the Moor
Explore the evocative ruins of Extwistle Hall, a 16th-century Tudor manor perched on Lancashire’s scenic moorland.
Extwistle Hall is a striking 16th-century Tudor gentry hall-house perched on Extwistle Moor near Briercliffe, Burnley. Once home to the Parker family, this atmospheric ruin offers a glimpse into Lancashire’s rich history amid scenic moorland landscapes. Though now a haunting shell, its historic architecture and folklore make it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
A brief summary to Extwistle Hall
- Burnley, Briercliffe, BB10 3PW, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain around Extwistle Hall is uneven and can be muddy, especially after rain.
- Bring a camera to capture the hall’s atmospheric ruins and the expansive moorland views.
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best natural light and quieter surroundings.
- Respect the site’s fragile condition by not climbing on the ruins or disturbing the natural environment.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the bus from Burnley Bus Station towards Briercliffe; the journey takes approximately 25-35 minutes. From the nearest stop, a 20-minute walk across moorland terrain leads to Extwistle Hall. Bus fares range from £3 to £5 one way.
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Car
Driving from Burnley town center to Extwistle Hall takes around 15-20 minutes via Todmorden Road. Parking is limited near the moor; visitors should park responsibly along designated areas and prepare for a short walk on uneven ground. No parking fees apply.
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Walking
For experienced walkers, a 1.5 to 2-hour hike from Burnley through Briercliffe offers scenic moorland views en route to the hall. Terrain is uneven and can be physically demanding, so suitable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
Extwistle Hall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Extwistle Hall
A Tudor Manor Amidst Lancashire’s Moorland
Extwistle Hall stands as a testament to Tudor architecture and Lancashire’s gentry heritage. Built in 1585 by the Parker family, who acquired the land from Kirkstall Abbey, the hall was a prominent manor house for over two centuries. Its location atop Extwistle Moor provides commanding views of the surrounding countryside, blending natural beauty with historical significance. The hall’s design reflects typical 16th and 17th-century hall-house features, including stone construction and period detailing, now weathered by time.The Parker Family and Historical Significance
The Parker family, influential local landowners, shaped the hall’s legacy. Captain Robert Parker, a notable family head, resided here, overseeing the estate through turbulent centuries. The hall’s history is intertwined with Lancashire’s social and ecclesiastical shifts, including the dissolution of monasteries that led to the land’s transfer from Kirkstall Abbey. Extwistle Hall’s enduring presence offers insight into the region’s feudal and post-medieval eras.The Ruins and Folklore Surrounding Extwistle Hall
Since becoming unoccupied in 1975, Extwistle Hall has fallen into evocative ruins, its crumbling walls inspiring local legends and ghost stories. Folklore speaks of goblins and spectral funerals haunting the site, adding a mystical aura. The ruin’s state invites exploration and photography, capturing the interplay of decay and nature reclaiming the structure. Despite its dereliction, the hall remains a cultural landmark within Burnley’s historical landscape.Natural Setting and Visitor Experience
The hall’s moorland setting offers a tranquil and scenic environment, ideal for contemplative walks and photography. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the rolling hills and open skies, especially atmospheric during sunrise or sunset. The surrounding landscape is typical of Lancashire’s upland moors, with heather, grasses, and occasional wildlife, enhancing the site’s sense of remoteness and timelessness.Conservation and Future Prospects
Extwistle Hall is a Grade II listed building recognized for its architectural and historical importance. Conservation efforts have been discussed to preserve what remains of this heritage site, though it currently stands vulnerable to natural decay. Its status as one of Burnley’s oldest structures underscores the need for sustainable preservation to maintain its legacy for future generations.Access and Practical Information
The hall is accessible year-round as an outdoor site with no formal opening hours. While there are no visitor facilities on-site, the surrounding area offers opportunities for picnics and nature walks. Photography enthusiasts find the site particularly rewarding, with changing light conditions and moorland backdrop providing varied compositions. Visitors should prepare for uneven terrain and limited amenities.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Charter Walk Shopping Centre
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Barrowford Memorial Park
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Wycoller Country Park
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Essential places to dine
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The Cellar Restaurant
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The Bonny Inn
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Gimbals Restaurant
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Angels Restaurant
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Gibbon Bridge Hotel and Restaurant
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Crowded House Restaurant
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The Box Tree Restaurant
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Northern Crafthouse
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The Lister Arms
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Grove Bookshop
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C&K
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Watershed Mill
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
