Dating back to 1325, Samlesbury Hall was originally built under the instruction of Gilbert de Southworth as his family seat. A simple structure with a thatched roof, it bore little resemblance to the black and white half-timbered stately home you see today.
Until 1925, Samlesbury Hall had always been a private residence. Four families over seven centuries have owned the Hall. Firstly, the powerful Southworth family from 1325 to 1678, secondly The Bradyll family from 1679 to 1851, the Cooper family from 1851 to 1862 and lastly the Harrison family from 1862 until 1924.
At different times in the past the building has been an inn, a private school, a home for fabric weavers and now a unique tourist attraction which attracts visitors from all over the world.
A very interesting Tudor building. Lovely garden café as well with good food and friendly, helpful staff
In 1925 a wealthy philanthropist called Thomas Boys Lewis assembled a group of associates who collectively saved the Hall from possible demolition. They created The Samlesbury Hall Trust, a charity which still owns the Hall today. The mission of the Trust is to protect the Hall for future generations and to allow it to be used for the purposes of recreation for local people.
As you might expect, the history of the Hall over seven hundred years is complex. Our archive has many gaps during which time what happened at the hall is unknown and open to conjecture.
Of what we do know, the story of Samlesbury Hall in a fascinating chequered timeline which includes religious persecution, fortunes made and squandered, witchcraft and even murder.
Our Guided Tours offer guests the opportunity to learn about the history of the Hall and the people who have been associated with it. Visitors can explore the ancient rooms, see our priest hides, visit the former Chapel and enjoy the elegance of our stately rooms.
You can find out more about our Guided Tours here.
A full history has been published in our new souvenir book ‘A Journey Through Time’ by Jason Karl in 2025 as part of our 700th anniversary celebrations. The book can be purchased in our gift shop.
