Hoghton Tower: A Storied Tudor Fortress and Ancestral Home
Explore Hoghton Tower, a majestic Tudor manor steeped in royal history, dramatic battles, and stunning panoramic views in Lancashire.
Hoghton Tower is a striking Grade I listed fortified manor house perched atop a prominent hill near Preston, Lancashire. Built between 1560 and 1565 by Thomas de Hoghton, it has been the ancestral seat of the de Hoghton family since the 12th century. The Tower’s rich history includes royal visits, Civil War battles, and a Victorian restoration, all set within expansive gardens and grounds that offer panoramic views across the region.
A brief summary to Hoghton Tower
- Blackburn Old Rd, Preston, Hoghton, PR5 0SH, GB
- +441254852986
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book a guided tour to access the Tower’s interior and learn about its rich history from expert guides.
- Visit the gardens and grounds for spectacular views across Lancashire and beyond, ideal for photography.
- Check the events calendar for special activities like historical reenactments and seasonal festivals.
- Enjoy afternoon tea in the Tower’s tea room, combining local flavors with a historic setting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Preston city center to Hoghton Tower takes approximately 20-30 minutes via the A675 and Blackburn Old Road. Parking is available on-site, but spaces can be limited during events. There is no parking fee. The route involves rural roads with some narrow sections.
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Bus
Local bus services run from Preston Bus Station to nearby Hoghton village with a journey time of around 40-50 minutes. From the village, a 20-minute uphill walk on a country lane leads to the Tower. Bus frequency is limited on weekends and holidays. Tickets cost approximately £3-5 one way.
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Taxi
Taxis from Preston to Hoghton Tower typically take 20-25 minutes and cost around £20-30. This option is convenient for visitors seeking direct access without walking uphill. Availability depends on local taxi services and advance booking is recommended during peak times.
Hoghton Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Hoghton Tower
Architectural Heritage Rooted in Tudor England
Hoghton Tower stands as an imposing example of Tudor architecture, constructed from locally quarried gritstone between 1560 and 1565 by Thomas de Hoghton. The fortified manor’s design reflects the turbulent times of the 16th century, when private wars between neighboring families were common, necessitating a defensive appearance. The Tower incorporates elements from earlier structures on the site, with the de Hoghton family’s presence here dating back to at least the 12th century. This continuity links the building to medieval origins and the broader history of Lancashire’s landed gentry.Historical Significance and Royal Connections
The Tower’s history is deeply intertwined with England’s monarchy and political upheavals. Sir Richard Hoghton, a key figure in the early 17th century, hosted King James I for a three-day visit, an event that underscored the family’s royal favor. The de Hoghtons were active Royalists during the English Civil War, with Hoghton Tower itself suffering damage when Parliamentary forces seized it in 1643. The explosion of the gunpowder magazine in the old pele tower during this conflict led to the destruction of that central tower, which was never rebuilt. The family’s loyalty and political roles as Sheriffs and Members of Parliament highlight their regional influence.Victorian Revival and Modern Preservation
After falling into disrepair by the 19th century, Hoghton Tower underwent extensive restoration starting in 1862 under Sir Henry de Hoghton. The restoration, completed by 1901, revived the Tower’s grandeur and ensured its survival into the modern era. Since opening to the public in 1946, the Tower has remained a living family home while welcoming visitors to explore its historic interiors, gardens, and grounds. The Hoghton Tower Preservation Trust now manages the site, maintaining both the building and its heritage for future generations.A Landscape of Panoramic Views and Cultural Layers
Situated on the highest point in the area, Hoghton Tower commands sweeping views across Lancashire, the Lake District, the Irish Sea, and even Wales on clear days. The surrounding parkland and gardens enrich the visitor experience, blending natural beauty with historical ambiance. The estate also houses notable features such as a Great Barn dating from 1692 and remnants linked to Whalley Abbey, including a chapel arch and a bell, connecting the site to wider regional religious and cultural histories.Living History and Community Engagement
Today, Hoghton Tower is more than a static monument; it serves as a vibrant venue for events, including historical reenactments, performances, and seasonal celebrations. The site’s collection of over 80 dolls’ houses adds a unique charm, while guided tours offer insights into the Tower’s layered stories. The de Hoghton family continues to reside here, bridging centuries of heritage with contemporary stewardship. The Tower’s role as a cultural hub reflects its ongoing significance within Lancashire and beyond.Legacy of the De Hoghton Family and Regional Identity
The de Hoghton family’s stewardship since the 1100s ties the Tower to the very fabric of Lancashire’s history. Their connections to figures such as William the Conqueror and reputed links to literary icons like Shakespeare enrich the narrative. The estate’s evolution—from medieval stronghold to Tudor manor, Civil War battleground, and Victorian restoration—mirrors the broader historical currents of England. Hoghton Tower remains a testament to resilience, heritage, and the enduring legacy of one of Lancashire’s most notable families.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chorley's Flying Arches
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Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library
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Preston Cenotaph
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Rivington Pike
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Rivington Pike Tower
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Wayoh Reservoir
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Lumb Viaduct
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Peel Tower
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Fairy Glen
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Sussex Close
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Robert Peel Statue
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Honouring Bury’s most famous son: the 1851 bronze statue of Sir Robert Peel, twice Prime Minister and founder of the modern police force.
The Big Pipe
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Explore The Big Pipe, a serene tourist attraction in Skelmersdale, blending history and nature for an unforgettable experience.
The Beautiful Roundabout
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Explore The Beautiful Roundabout in Skelmersdale, a stunning landmark with vibrant floral displays and artistic landscaping, perfect for memorable photos and relaxation.
Lytham Windmill
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Explore Lytham Windmill, a historic attraction that embodies the maritime heritage and scenic beauty of Lytham's coastline.
Sawley Abbey
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Medieval Cistercian ruins beside the River Ribble, shaped by poverty, conflict, and defiant faith.
Unmissable attractions to see
Witton Country Park
3.7 km
Explore 480 acres of woodlands, sports facilities, and heritage at Blackburn’s beloved Witton Country Park.
Samlesbury Hall
4.1 km
Explore 700 years of Tudor history and heritage at Samlesbury Hall, a captivating medieval manor near Preston with timeless charm.
Viking Woodland
5.4 km
Discover the peaceful trails and rich Viking heritage of Preston’s serene Viking Woodland, a natural haven for wildlife and relaxation.
Hatch Brook Waterfall
5.4 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Hatch Brook Waterfall, a hidden natural gem nestled in Lancashire’s scenic woodlands near Chorley.
Brockholes
5.5 km
Explore Brockholes, Lancashire’s award-winning floating nature reserve blending innovation, wildlife, and family fun in a stunning riverside setting.
The Mall Blackburn
6.3 km
A vibrant shopping centre blending mainstream and independent stores in the heart of Blackburn’s town centre.
Cuerden Valley Park
6.4 km
Explore 650 acres of woodlands, meadows, and heritage gardens in this sustainable Lancashire country park, open year-round for all ages.
Mrs Dowsons Farm Park
6.7 km
Experience Lancashire’s beloved working farm with hands-on animal encounters, play areas, and farm-made ice cream for all ages.
Queen's Park
7.6 km
A serene Victorian park where heritage charm meets family-friendly recreation in Blackburn's green heart.
Lostock Hall Henge
7.9 km
Explore the tranquil ancient earthworks of Lostock Hall Henge, a prehistoric ceremonial site nestled in Preston's peaceful landscape.
Avenham and Miller Park
8.8 km
Discover Preston’s Victorian riverside gem with tranquil gardens, scenic walks, and vibrant community charm along the River Ribble.
Wallace and Gromit Statue
8.9 km
Discover Preston’s whimsical tribute to Wallace and Gromit, a charming bronze statue celebrating the beloved claymation duo and their local creator.
St George's Shopping Centre
8.9 km
A vibrant and accessible shopping hub in Preston, blending high street brands, independent stores, and family-friendly amenities.
Lancashire Infantry Museum
9.0 km
Explore five centuries of Lancashire military heritage in one of England's largest regimental collections.
The British Commercial Vehicle Museum
9.0 km
Explore Britain’s rich commercial vehicle heritage in Leyland’s historic museum, from vintage trucks to the iconic Pope mobile.
Essential places to dine
Vardons Restaurant at Shaw Hill
7.1 km
Elegant British dining with scenic golf course views at Shaw Hill’s Regency-style Vardons Restaurant.
The Bonny Inn
8.6 km
Contemporary British pub with fresh local cuisine, vegan options, and stunning Ribble Valley views in a welcoming, modern setting.
Tipsy Chef (Bar & Restaurant)
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A vibrant American-inspired bar and restaurant in Preston, famed for inventive dishes and lively cocktails in a buzzing social setting.
Aven Restaurant
8.7 km
Experience Preston’s finest with Aven Restaurant’s award-winning British cuisine, seasonal tasting menus, and warm, elegant ambiance.
Charnock Farm Restaurant
8.7 km
Rustic country dining, comfortable motel stays, and charming event spaces nestled in the tranquil Lancashire countryside.
Encore Restaurant
9.7 km
Modern British cuisine and vibrant cocktails meet stylish celebrations in the heart of Chorley’s Brewers Print Building.
Angels Restaurant
10.7 km
Chic modern British dining in Ribchester’s Ribble Valley, blending seasonal local produce with elegant style and warm hospitality.
Northcote Hotel & Restaurant
11.9 km
Luxury country house hotel with Michelin-starred dining, elegant rooms, and tranquil Ribble Valley views for a refined countryside escape.
The Italian Orchard
12.3 km
Spacious and stylish Italian dining in Broughton, offering a vast menu and lively atmosphere for families and groups.
Artisan Ribble Valley
12.7 km
Experience Modern British cuisine in a stylish setting with local flavors, scenic terraces, and a vibrant cocktail bar in Billington, Clitheroe.
The Broughton Inn
13.1 km
Historic gastropub in Broughton offering classic British dishes and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere just north of Preston.
Retreat Adlington
13.4 km
A vibrant grill and cocktail bar in Adlington offering quality steaks, pizzas, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Cherry Tree at Blackrod
14.6 km
A vibrant modern British gastropub in Bolton offering classic dishes, elegant events, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Lang's Restaurant
14.9 km
Experience contemporary English and international cuisine in a stylish Preston setting with exceptional wines and warm hospitality.
Walled Garden Restaurant
15.2 km
A stylish British bistro in Preston offering fresh, locally sourced dishes and renowned afternoon tea in a charming garden conservatory setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Crissys Gifts For All Occasions
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The Mill Shop
6.8 km
A welcoming gift shop in St Catherine’s Park, Lostock Hall, blending community spirit with unique local crafts and charitable support.
Retrogue Vintage Clothing
8.7 km
Discover unique vintage and designer secondhand fashion treasures in the heart of Preston at Retrogue Vintage Clothing.
KENJI Preston
8.9 km
Discover an eclectic mix of unique gifts and general merchandise from Asia in Preston’s vibrant KENJI store within St George's Shopping Centre.
Mood Gifts & Home
13.8 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home accessories in a warm, community-focused boutique in Longton, Preston.
Quirky Gifts
13.9 km
Explore Accrington's most charming gift shop for unique, whimsical treasures that capture the spirit of your travels.
North West Vintage Clothing Company Ltd
14.0 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures in the historic Bygone Times at Eccleston, where every piece tells a story of style and sustainability.
Freckle Boutique
14.4 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion and personalized service at Freckle Boutique, a charming shopping gem in Heskin, Chorley.
The Secret Closet
15.4 km
Curated Italian, Danish & Portuguese fashion with a commitment to responsible, sustainable retail.
Cedar Farm
17.8 km
Discover Cedar Farm: Lancashire’s charming blend of boutique shopping, gourmet dining, and family-friendly farm fun in a scenic rural setting.
Rufford's Country Lifestyle
20.0 km
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The Hive
22.8 km
Discover unique gifts and warm hospitality at The Hive, Garstang’s beloved local gift shop nestled in a charming historic setting.
Dream
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Witches Galore
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THE FOSSIL STORE
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dressers Arms | Pub & Rooms
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Blitz Venue & Nightclub
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Hogarths
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Baluga Bar & Club
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Winedown
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Revolution Preston
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A vibrant four-level cocktail bar and restaurant in Preston city centre, perfect for dining, cocktails, and late-night partying.
Guild Ale House
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Preston’s first micro pub, Guild Ale House serves exceptional local ales in a cozy, lively setting with a welcoming community vibe.
The Plough Grimsargh
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A friendly village pub in Grimsargh serving classic British dishes, excellent beers, and hosting lively community events in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
FORUM BAR & KITCHEN
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A stylish bar and kitchen in Preston blending Mediterranean flavors, craft cocktails, and warm hospitality in a vibrant city-center setting.
Black Horse
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Historic Black Horse Pub in Preston offers award-winning real ales, classic charm, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Hartleys Wine Bar
9.0 km
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Plug & Taps
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The Winter Lodge
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Plau Gin & Beer House
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Ships and Giggles
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Warehouse
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Popworld - Preston
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Popworld Preston: Where cheesy pop tunes meet vibrant nightlife and unforgettable party vibes in the heart of the city.
Switch Nightclub
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Energetic and affordable nightlife hub in Preston, popular with a middle-aged crowd and known for its lively atmosphere.
Park Hall Nightclub
13.5 km
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Rendezvous Nightclub & Resteraunt
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Level Nightclub
19.8 km
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Pure Nightclub
21.2 km
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Ibiza Nightclub
21.3 km
Experience Wigan’s vibrant nightlife at Ibiza Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable Saturday nights come alive until dawn.
The Redroom Burnley
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Experience Burnley’s vibrant nightlife with The Redroom’s lively music, diverse drinks, and late-night party atmosphere in the town centre.
Underground
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Experience classic rave vibes and late-night energy at Underground, Bolton’s intimate clubbing hotspot in Farnworth.
Banff
30.1 km
Experience Southport’s vibrant nightlife at Banff, a dynamic nightclub and bar on West Street offering late-night entertainment in the heart of town.
Club underground
32.8 km
Experience Blackpool’s authentic old-school basement club with vibrant music, friendly crowds, and late-night energy on Talbot Road.
Funny Girls
32.9 km
Discover the magic of Blackpool's Funny Girls, where dazzling performances meet delightful dining in an unforgettable night out.
The Tache Rock Club
32.9 km
Blackpool’s spirited rock nightclub offering authentic music, friendly vibes, and late-night energy in a casual setting.
Hush Nightclub
33.0 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant RnB and Afrobeats nightlife at Hush Nightclub, where music, cocktails, and atmosphere come alive.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
