Rufford Old Hall: A Timeless Tudor Manor in Lancashire

Origins and Architectural Heritage

Rufford Old Hall dates back to the late 15th or early 16th century, originally constructed for the Hesketh family, who were lords of the manor in this part of Lancashire. The great hall remains the centerpiece, showcasing an exceptional timber-framed Tudor design with a rare hammerbeam roof, a feature unique in Lancashire. The building underwent several expansions, including a Jacobean brick wing added in 1662 and further Gothic Revival style additions in the 19th century. The hall’s timber framing, stone plinth, and mullioned windows reflect the craftsmanship of the period, while stained glass coats of arms and intricate carvings enrich the historic atmosphere.

The Hesketh Family Legacy and Historical Significance

The Hesketh family’s association with Rufford spans centuries, beginning with land acquired through marriage to the Fitton family in the medieval era. The manor became their principal base, with the hall witnessing generations of family life and local history. By the mid-18th century, the family built Rufford New Hall, and the Old Hall transitioned to tenants and agricultural use. In 1936, Thomas Fermor-Hesketh gifted the hall and its contents to the National Trust, ensuring the preservation of its rich heritage. The hall also holds intriguing historical anecdotes, including possible ties to a young William Shakespeare.

Philip Ashcroft’s Collection and Cultural Preservation

A unique feature of Rufford Old Hall is the Philip Ashcroft collection, a comprehensive museum of Lancashire rural life from the 1930s. Ashcroft, a local historian and curator, assembled everyday objects, agricultural tools, ceramics, textiles, and toys that illustrate the region’s folk traditions. This collection is displayed throughout the hall and stables, providing visitors with a vivid insight into the working lives and culture of Lancashire’s past communities. The collection complements the historic furnishings and arms and armour exhibited inside the hall.

Gardens and Landscape Charm

Surrounding Rufford Old Hall are extensive Victorian and Edwardian gardens, featuring a variety of rhododendrons, woodlands, and an orchard with heritage apple varieties. The gardens are notable for their peaceful ambiance and the presence of distinctive topiary, including a giant pair of squirrels. The hall’s proximity to the Leeds-Liverpool Canal and nearby woodlands offers scenic walking opportunities, enhancing the estate’s natural appeal. The gardens stand as one of the lowest-lying National Trust gardens in England, adding to their unique character.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

Visitors to Rufford Old Hall can enjoy guided tours that reveal the architectural and historical treasures of the manor. The cosy Victorian tea-room serves light lunches and cream teas, with outdoor seating in the courtyard. Families can borrow balance bikes and explore dedicated nature play areas, making the site engaging for all ages. The coach house hosts a second-hand bookshop, while information boards and displays enrich the visitor experience. The National Trust’s ongoing conservation efforts maintain the hall’s fabric and collections for future generations.

Preservation and Ongoing Care

The National Trust has managed Rufford Old Hall since 1936, focusing on preserving its Tudor and Jacobean features alongside the Ashcroft collection. Restoration projects have conserved the historic timberwork, stained glass, and Gothic Revival furnishings. The Trust also supports local volunteer groups who contribute to the estate’s upkeep and visitor engagement. These efforts ensure Rufford Old Hall remains a vital link to Lancashire’s cultural and architectural heritage.