Smithills Hall Bolton
A historic manor house in Bolton, showcasing medieval to Victorian architecture, renowned for its paranormal activity and beautiful grounds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Smithills Hall Bolton
Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic manor house in Bolton, showcasing medieval to Victorian architecture, renowned for its paranormal activity and beautiful grounds.
"Free entry, but donations are highly encouraged to support this historic gem!"
Donation is Key
Entry is free, but please donate to help preserve this historic gem! :heart:
Mind Your Head!
Watch out for low door frames, a common feature from earlier eras! :man_detective:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Haunted Hall
Interior of Smithills Hall
Experience the chilling tales and alleged paranormal activity within this historic manor, a magnet for ghost hunters.
George Marsh's Footprint
Chapel area
See the spot where Protestant preacher George Marsh was interrogated, marked by a footprint symbolizing injustice.
Restored Gardens & Woodland
Exterior grounds
Wander through beautifully maintained formal gardens and explore peaceful woodland trails leading to scenic spots.
Medieval & Victorian Architecture
Throughout the Hall
Admire the varied architecture, from the 14th-century medieval hall to Victorian additions, showcasing centuries of history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ghostly Encounters & Historical Insights
Free Entry, Donations Welcome
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Donation is Key
Entry is free, but please donate to help preserve this historic gem! :heart:
Mind Your Head!
Watch out for low door frames, a common feature from earlier eras! :man_detective:
Explore Beyond the Hall
Discover the lovely waterfall near the stone bridge. :water_wave:
Check Opening Times
Verify hours and look for private events before visiting. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
Donation is Key
Entry is free, but please donate to help preserve this historic gem! :heart:
Mind Your Head!
Watch out for low door frames, a common feature from earlier eras! :man_detective:
Explore Beyond the Hall
Discover the lovely waterfall near the stone bridge. :water_wave:
Check Opening Times
Verify hours and look for private events before visiting. :calendar:
Ghost Hunting Gear?
Bring your equipment if you're hoping to capture paranormal evidence! :ghost:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Smithills Hall is a free-to-enter historic gem, praised for its well-restored architecture and engaging guided tours. Visitors appreciate the beautiful gardens and woodland walks, though some find the accessible areas of the hall to be limited. Its reputation for paranormal activity also draws a significant number of ghost hunters.
"Beautiful Elizabethan manor house with the oldest parts dating back to the C14th. Owned by Bolton Council it has been excellently restored with information boards in the different rooms. The guide we had was very good in telling the story of the building. In 1554, during the reign of the Catholic Queen Mary, local Protestant preacher George Marsh was interrogated here before he was burned at the stake in Chester for heresy. It is said that there is a footprint on the floor where he stamped his foot to show the injustice. There's a tea room and a gift shop. Also attractive grounds to wander around. Although it's free to go in, a donation is deserved."
Nuts
"The hall is smaller than we expected (or you can see less of it than we thought) but it is a lovely building. You can only see one room upstairs and no kitchens. The tour groups blocked off alot of the house during our visit unfortunately. The chapel was my favourite part, beautiful windows.
There are lots of very low door frames which was rather amusing with my 6ft 4 husband, he must have been a rarity back then!
If you take a left instead if heading into the house, it leads you to a stone bridge, go down the bottom of the bridge and theres a lovely waterfall.
Entry is free, please make a donation. Check opening times on Google and check for private events before setting off.
Parking is free just over the road and theres disabled parking right in front of the house."
Victoria Moss
"Lovely grand hall. parts of which go back to the 14th century and now owned by Bolton council, so it's free to get in. Once you've finished the hall there are gardens, and woodland leading up to Rivington should you want to. Wonderful cafe and shop located in the hall - well worth a visit."
mark tootill
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Smithills Hall is located in Bolton. Visitors can reach it by car, with free parking available across the road. For those using public transport, Bolton station is a 15-minute journey from Manchester, and from there, you can find local transport options to the hall.
Yes, free parking is available just across the road from Smithills Hall. Disabled parking is also conveniently located right in front of the house.
Absolutely! Smithills Hall makes for a great day trip from Manchester. It's about a 30-minute drive or a short train ride to Bolton followed by local transport.
While specific bus routes aren't detailed, reaching Bolton station from Manchester is easy. From Bolton, local buses or taxis can take you to Smithills Hall. It's advisable to check local transport schedules.
The nearest major transport hub is Bolton train station, which is well-connected to Manchester and other cities. From Bolton, you'll need to arrange onward travel to the hall.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Smithills Hall is free! However, visitors are strongly encouraged to make a donation to help with the upkeep and restoration of this historic building.
No, advance booking is generally not required as entry is free. However, it's wise to check the official website or contact them for opening times and to inquire about any private events that might affect public access.
Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check Google or the official Smithills Hall website before your visit. They also advise checking for private events that might impact public access.
Yes, donations are welcomed and appreciated to support the hall's preservation. Look for donation points within the hall or near the entrance.
Yes, group visits are possible. It's recommended to contact Smithills Hall in advance to arrange group tours or to check for any specific group booking requirements or availability.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the historic rooms, including the medieval great hall and Victorian additions.
Wander through the beautiful formal gardens and surrounding woodland trails.
For the adventurous, it's known as one of the most haunted houses in Bolton.
While the historical and potentially spooky aspects might appeal to older children, the main draw for families in the area is Smithills Open Farm.+4 Smithills Hall itself offers a more historical and architectural experience.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended. Guides like John have been praised for their extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling, significantly enhancing the visitor experience.
Smithills Hall showcases elements from various eras, with its oldest parts dating back to the 14th century. It also features medieval, Tudor, and Victorian architectural styles.
Smithills Hall occasionally hosts special events, including paranormal investigations and historical talks. It's advisable to check their schedule for any upcoming events that might interest you.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a wonderful cafe and shop located within Smithills Hall, offering refreshments and a place to relax after exploring. Bake & Roast at Smithills Hall is open Wednesday to Sunday.
The cafe offers a selection of treats, including afternoon tea. Bake & Roast specifically mentions cozy spots for morning catch-ups.
While not explicitly stated for the hall itself, the surrounding woodland and nearby Jumbles Park offer beautiful spots for picnics.
Besides the cafe within the hall, the surrounding area of Bolton offers various dining establishments. For a unique farm experience, Smithills Open Farm has fresh milk and ice cream.
Information on specific dietary catering isn't readily available. It's best to inquire directly with the cafe at Smithills Hall about options for dietary needs.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside Smithills Hall, especially for personal use. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, particularly in sensitive areas or during guided tours.
The varied architecture, from medieval to Victorian, offers great photographic opportunities.
Drone usage might be restricted due to the historic nature of the building and its surroundings. Footage captured by a drone at Smithills Hall has been shared,
For those interested in paranormal photography, the hall's reputation for hauntings offers unique opportunities. Videos have captured alleged ghostly laughter and chair movements,
Photography at Smithills Hall often focuses on its historical architecture, atmospheric interiors, and the natural beauty of its grounds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families interested in history, older children might appreciate the stories and architecture of Smithills Hall. However, the primary appeal for a family day out in the Smithills area, especially for those with young children, is undoubtedly the open farm. It's consistently praised for being affordable, engaging, and offering a wide range of activities beyond just seeing animals.
👻 Ghost Hunters & Paranormal Enthusiasts
Visitors have reported experiencing chilling phenomena, including ghostly laughter and unexplained movements within the hall. The historical context, including tales of figures like George Marsh, adds to the eerie atmosphere.If you're looking to actively investigate, consider checking for any organized paranormal events or tours held at the hall. Bringing your own equipment might enhance your experience, as many visitors aim to capture evidence of the supernatural. The hall's ancient architecture and long history provide a perfect backdrop for a spooky adventure.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Architecture Admirers
+1 The medieval great hall and other preserved rooms offer a tangible connection to the past. Guided tours are highly recommended, as knowledgeable guides can bring the building's rich history to life, detailing its former inhabitants and significant events.Beyond the hall itself, the surrounding gardens and woodland provide a beautiful setting for exploration. The well-kept grounds and scenic trails offer a peaceful environment to reflect on the history of the estate. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in centuries of local heritage, from its domestic past to its more dramatic historical moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Haunted History of Smithills Hall
Visitors and paranormal investigators have reported a range of unexplained phenomena, from disembodied voices and laughter to moving objects. The hall's long history, which includes periods of religious persecution and dramatic events, is often cited as the source of its spectral residents.One of the most famous stories involves the ghost of Protestant preacher George Marsh, who was interrogated at the hall in 1554 before being burned at the stake. It's said his footprint remains on the floor where he stamped his foot in protest.
These accounts contribute to the hall's reputation as a must-visit for those seeking a thrill.For those interested in experiencing the paranormal firsthand, Smithills Hall offers a unique opportunity. While the hall is a historical site by day, its reputation for hauntings draws ghost hunters and curious visitors alike. It's advisable to check for any organized paranormal investigation events that might be held at the hall, offering a more structured way to explore its spooky side.
Exploring the Grounds: Gardens and Woodlands
These areas are perfect for visitors looking to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the historic manor.For those who enjoy longer walks, the woodland trails leading from Smithills Hall are highly recommended.
These outdoor spaces make Smithills Hall a destination for more than just history and hauntings. Whether you're looking for a short walk in the gardens or a more extensive hike through the woods, the grounds provide a refreshing complement to the indoor experience. It's a great way to spend a few hours, especially on a pleasant day, and it's all accessible for free.
Smithills Hall vs. Smithills Open Farm
In contrast, Smithills Open Farm is a vibrant family attraction focused on animals and interactive experiences.
While both are located in the Smithills area of Bolton, they cater to different interests. If you're drawn to history, architecture, and ghost stories, Smithills Hall is your destination. If you're looking for a lively, animal-focused day out with kids, Smithills Open Farm is the place to go. Many visitors enjoy combining a visit to both if time allows, experiencing the diverse attractions Bolton has to offer.
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