
Shibden Hall
Historic 15th-century manor, home of Anne Lister, offering period rooms, restored gardens, and expansive parkland.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gardens bloom, fewer crowds

Shibden Hall
Best Time
Gardens bloom, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 15th-century manor, home of Anne Lister, offering period rooms, restored gardens, and expansive parkland.
"Absolutely amazing and fascinating period house just on the outskirts of Halifax."

Engage with Volunteers
Staff and volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable about Anne Lister and the Hall's history. :speech_balloon:
Wear Comfy Shoes!
The walk to and from the car park can be steep. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shibden Hall Interior
The Manor House
Step back in time in the meticulously restored rooms of this 15th-century manor, home to Anne Lister.

Anne Lister's Diaries
Exhibits within the Hall
Discover the coded diaries of Anne Lister, a remarkable diarist and businesswoman.

Restored Gardens
Gardens surrounding the Hall
Wander through beautiful, historically accurate gardens offering stunning views of the Hall.

Shibden Park
Parkland surrounding the Hall
Explore the expansive park with its boating lake, woodland walks, and miniature railway.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Engage with Volunteers
Staff and volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable about Anne Lister and the Hall's history. :speech_balloon:
Wear Comfy Shoes!
The walk to and from the car park can be steep. :athletic_shoe:
Explore the Outbuildings
Don't miss the apothecary, coopers, and blacksmith workshops. :hammerandwrench:
Check for Events
Look out for special events like the Anne Lister Festival. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
Engage with Volunteers
Staff and volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable about Anne Lister and the Hall's history. :speech_balloon:
Wear Comfy Shoes!
The walk to and from the car park can be steep. :athletic_shoe:
Explore the Outbuildings
Don't miss the apothecary, coopers, and blacksmith workshops. :hammerandwrench:
Check for Events
Look out for special events like the Anne Lister Festival. :calendar:
Cafe with a View
Enjoy coffee and snacks at the cafe in the park. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Shibden Hall for its fascinating history, particularly the connection to Anne Lister and the 'Gentleman Jack' series. The meticulously restored house, knowledgeable staff, and beautiful parkland are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some visitors note the steep inclines within the park and the Hall's size, but overall, it's considered excellent value and a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
"Absolutely amazing and fascinating period house just on the outskirts of Halifax.
Spent a good few hours there but sure i didn't see everything.
The house itself is truly incredible as are the staff and volunteers who make any visit a pleasure they are extremely friendly and knowledgeable about the Lister family and the history of the house.
Small cafe serves excellent coffee.
The outbuildings are a museum in itself and definitely worth visiting.
The gardens and lake offers lots of walks and stunning views of the house."
A340 fan
"We were a small group of friends- some hadn’t seen Gentleman Jack but were still pleased to visit. I’d loved the drama and characterised by actors I respect but it was great to see the actual place Anne Lister lived.
The house is a real treasure for Halifax and the North. It’s well preserved with good interested volunteers who add to the atmosphere. So knowledgeable- do engage them and learn about Anne, her ancestors and watch the 20 minute video too. We went on a Monday and it was surprisingly busy with quite a few folk like us enquiring about Anne and the family and how the house was affected by the drama as crowds then wanted to visit.
Read the information boards, spend time and admire the amazing Anne Lister who was such an adventurous person.
We went from the house to the cafe in the park a good walk there and an even greater uphill walk back to the house and the car park. The park looked nice in the sunshine."
Julie
"What a fantastic place!! Absolutely loved looking round, especially after watching Gentleman Jack, which was filmed there. So much care and attention has gone into the upkeep of the house and gardens, which was a pleasure to see. Lots of really interesting and useful information all round the house. The staff were so lovely and helpful, and they have an incredible gift shop! Such fantastic value for money all round. A very special place to visit."
Fiona Banham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shibden Hall is located just outside Halifax, West Yorkshire. You can reach it by car, with parking available on-site (though be aware of uphill walks back to the house). Public transport options include local buses that stop near the park entrance. For those arriving by train, Halifax station is the closest, with onward bus connections.
Yes, there is parking available at Shibden Hall. Visitors often note that the top car park is closer to the Hall, but the walk back up can be steep. There is also disabled parking near the house.
If you're staying in Halifax town center, walking is an option, but be prepared for an uphill trek. Many visitors mention the significant incline, so comfortable shoes are a must.
The nearest train station is Halifax. From there, you can take a local bus service or a taxi to reach Shibden Hall.
Yes, local bus services operate to Shibden Hall, with stops near the park entrance. It's advisable to check local bus timetables for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices for Shibden Hall are typically around £10 for adults and £7.50 for concessions. It's recommended to check the official Shibden Hall website for the most current pricing and to book tickets in advance, especially during peak times.
While not always mandatory, booking your Shibden Hall tickets online in advance is recommended to save time, particularly during busy periods. This ensures your entry and helps manage visitor flow.
Shibden Hall typically opens from March to November. Specific opening hours can vary, so it's best to consult the official Shibden Hall website for the most accurate and up-to-date information before your visit.
Concession prices are usually available for students, seniors, and sometimes children. There have also been promotional offers, such as joint discounts with the Brontë Parsonage Museum. Always check the official website for current discount information.
Yes, the surrounding Shibden Park is accessible and offers beautiful grounds, a lake, and woodland walks. While the Hall itself requires a ticket, exploring the park is a great option if you're short on time or prefer outdoor activities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Shibden Hall offers a fascinating glimpse into the past with its period rooms, the personal effects of Anne Lister, and the meticulously restored gardens. The outbuildings, including an apothecary and blacksmith's shop, are also a highlight. The surrounding Shibden Park features a boating lake and woodland.
Shibden Hall can be engaging for children, especially those interested in history or the 'Gentleman Jack' series. The parkland with its lake and miniature railway offers more active fun. However, the Hall itself is a historic house with delicate artifacts, so supervision is advised.
A thorough visit to Shibden Hall and its immediate grounds can take 2-3 hours. Some visitors spend longer if they explore the wider Shibden Park or attend special events.
While not always formal 'tours,' the knowledgeable volunteers and staff at Shibden Hall are a fantastic resource. Engaging with them provides in-depth insights into Anne Lister's life and the Hall's history.
Shibden Hall has disabled parking near the house. While the historic nature of the building may present some challenges, efforts have been made to improve accessibility. It's best to contact Shibden Hall directly for specific accessibility details.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located in Shibden Park, near the boating lake, which serves drinks, cakes, and lunches. Visitors have noted it's a good spot for refreshments after exploring the grounds.
Picnicking is generally permitted in the park areas of Shibden Park. However, food and drink are typically not allowed inside the historic Hall itself.
Yes, the Shibden Mill Inn is a well-regarded option located near Shibden Hall. For more diverse dining experiences in Halifax, consider restaurants like Riccis or La Luna.
The cafe at Shibden Hall offers a selection of drinks, cakes, and light lunches. It's a convenient place to grab a coffee or a snack while enjoying the park.
While there's a cafe in the park, the Hall itself does not have a full-service restaurant. However, the small shop at the end of the house does sell coffees and teas.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted at Shibden Hall for personal use, especially in the gardens and park. However, flash photography and professional filming may be restricted inside the historic house to protect the artifacts. Always check for signage.
The exterior of Shibden Hall, especially with the gardens in bloom or during autumn, offers beautiful photo opportunities. The boating lake in Shibden Park also provides scenic backdrops.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites like Shibden Hall to ensure the safety and preservation of the property and to respect other visitors. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Professional filming and commercial photography usually require special permission and may incur fees. For personal vlogs or social media content, check with the venue about their specific guidelines.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light for exterior shots. However, for interior photography, the natural light during the day is often best, though it can be dimmer in some rooms.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during warmer months when the park's outdoor activities are in full swing. The open spaces provide room for kids to run around, and the stories of Anne Lister can spark imagination.
❤️ Couples & History Buffs
Consider attending any special events or talks related to Anne Lister or the Hall's history to deepen your experience. The combination of historical immersion and scenic surroundings makes for a memorable visit.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers from Leeds/Manchester
Combine your visit with a stop in Halifax town center for lunch at one of the recommended restaurants. Booking tickets online in advance can streamline your visit, ensuring you make the most of your day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Anne Lister
Visitors can explore the rooms where Anne Lister lived and worked, gaining insight into her daily life and her groundbreaking approach to identity and independence. The Hall itself has been meticulously restored to reflect the periods Anne Lister inhabited, offering an immersive experience. Engaging with the knowledgeable volunteers is highly recommended, as they can share fascinating anecdotes and historical context that bring Anne's story to life.
The impact of Anne Lister's story continues to resonate, drawing visitors from around the world. Events like the Anne Lister Festival celebrate her life and legacy, offering talks, historical reenactments, and opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts.
Exploring Shibden Park
The park also boasts extensive woodland areas with marked footpaths, ideal for walking and enjoying the natural surroundings. The gardens surrounding Shibden Hall are themselves a significant attraction, having been carefully restored to reflect their historical appearance. These gardens provide a tranquil setting for a stroll and offer stunning views back towards the Hall.
Visitors often note the contrast between the historic interior of the Hall and the expansive, recreational nature of the park. While the Hall offers a deep dive into history, the park provides a space for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment, making Shibden a destination with something for everyone.
Filming 'Gentleman Jack' at Shibden Hall
Visitors often express their excitement at seeing the Hall in person after watching the series, noting how the restoration efforts have preserved its authentic atmosphere. The costumes from the show have also been exhibited at Shibden Hall, offering a closer look at the detailed craftsmanship that brought the period to life on screen.
The success of 'Gentleman Jack' has not only increased visitor numbers but has also contributed to a deeper appreciation for Anne Lister's story and the historical significance of Shibden Hall. It has transformed the Hall into a pilgrimage site for fans and history enthusiasts alike.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit