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Leighton Hall Estate: The Historic Gillow Family Home and Gardens

Explore the historic Gillow family home with its enchanting gardens, woodland walks, and interactive experiences near Carnforth.

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Leighton Hall Estate, near Carnforth in North Lancashire, is the ancestral home of the renowned Gillow furniture-making family. This lived-in Regency Gothic mansion offers informal guided tours where visitors can explore the house without roped-off areas, enjoy stunning gardens, woodland walks, and interactive children’s activities including a caterpillar maze and tree face trail. The estate also features a charming tearoom and seasonal birds of prey displays, set against the scenic backdrop of the English Lake District hills.

A brief summary to Leighton Hall Estate

  • Storrs Ln, Carnforth, LA5 9ST, GB
  • +441524734474
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2 to 4 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Tuesday 1:30 pm-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 1:30 pm-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 1:30 pm-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Book tickets online in advance, especially for the summer season when birds of prey displays are held.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the woodland trails and exploring the gardens.
  • Visit the tearoom for traditional homemade cakes and tea served in proper cups.
  • Families should allow extra time for children to enjoy the caterpillar maze, tree face trail, and play areas.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Lancaster takes approximately 25-35 minutes via the M6 and A6. Ample parking is available on-site, including coach parking. Note that the estate is signposted with brown tourism signs from the M6 junction. Parking is free.

  • Train and Walk

    Travelers can take a train to Silverdale Station, about 8 km from Leighton Hall. From there, a scenic 1.5-hour walk across Leighton Moss via footpaths leads to the estate, suitable for those comfortable with longer countryside walks.

  • Bus

    Local bus services connect Carnforth and nearby villages, with a stop approximately 3 km from Leighton Hall. From the bus stop, a 40-minute walk on rural roads and footpaths is required. Bus frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance.

Leighton Hall Estate location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Leighton Hall Estate

A Storied Heritage of the Gillow Family

Leighton Hall has been the family home of the Gillow dynasty, famous for their exquisite furniture craftsmanship, for centuries. The estate’s history dates back to 1246 when a fortified manor stood on the site. The present house evolved through Georgian and Gothic architectural styles, reflecting the tastes of successive generations. Still a lived-in family home, Leighton Hall preserves a remarkable collection of Gillow furniture and objets d’art. Unlike traditional stately homes, visitors are encouraged to engage freely with the interiors, sitting on furniture and exploring without barriers, fostering a warm, immersive experience.

Enchanting Gardens and Woodland Walks

Surrounding the hall are extensive gardens that blend ornamental beauty with playful features. The 19th-century walled garden includes an ornamental vegetable plot, herb garden pavilion, and a path maze. Beyond the gardens, a woodland walk invites visitors to explore nature trails, complete with a tree face trail and a caterpillar maze designed especially for children. The grounds also feature a bee corner and insect hotel, emphasizing biodiversity and outdoor discovery. Seating areas are scattered throughout, offering tranquil spots to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Engaging Experiences for All Ages

Leighton Hall is family-friendly, with many activities tailored to children such as brass rubbings, a play area, and seasonal events like a Teddy Bear Hunt and craft corners during August. The estate hosts captivating birds of prey displays at 3:30 pm on open days during the summer months, weather permitting, adding an exciting element to the visit. The informal tours are led by enthusiastic guides who share the hall’s rich history and stories, making the visit educational and entertaining for all ages.

Hospitality and Facilities

The estate’s tearoom offers a delightful selection of homemade cakes, traditional teas served in proper cups, and light refreshments, perfect for relaxing after exploring the grounds. The welcoming atmosphere extends to weddings and private events, where the hall’s stunning setting and attentive hosts create memorable occasions. Ample parking and coach facilities support group visits, and the estate remains open for pre-booked groups year-round.

Location and Setting

Nestled in a bowl of parkland just outside Carnforth, Leighton Hall enjoys a picturesque backdrop of the English Lake District hills and views towards Morecambe Bay. The estate’s rural setting offers a peaceful retreat yet is conveniently accessible from major roads. The blend of historic architecture, natural beauty, and interactive elements makes Leighton Hall a unique destination in Lancashire.

Preserving Tradition with a Contemporary Spirit

Leighton Hall balances its rich heritage with a lively, hands-on visitor experience. The family’s ongoing stewardship ensures the estate remains vibrant and welcoming, avoiding the formality often associated with historic houses. This approach invites visitors to connect deeply with the site’s history, nature, and culture, creating lasting memories for families, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.

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