Leighton Hall Front view
1 / 10

Leighton Hall

4.7
·440 reviews·, United Kingdom

A 13th-century stately home offering a unique 'hands-on' tour, falconry displays, and beautiful gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Event Days

Unique experiences await!

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Leighton Hall Front view

Leighton Hall

Best Time

Event Days

Unique experiences await!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 13th-century stately home offering a unique 'hands-on' tour, falconry displays, and beautiful gardens.

4.7
(440 reviews)

"A warm, hands-on historic home still lived in by the family, with history brought to life!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Hands-On History!

Don't be afraid to touch! It's encouraged here, making history feel real.

🦅 Bird of Prey Shows

Check show times upon arrival; they're a highlight for many visitors.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic House Tour

The Historic House Tour

Leighton Hall

Experience a unique, 'hands-on' tour of a lived-in stately home, spanning centuries of history.

Reddit
Falconry Display

Falconry Display

Leighton Hall Grounds

Witness impressive birds of prey in an engaging and informative display.

Reddit+1
Extensive Gardens and Grounds

Extensive Gardens and Grounds

Leighton Hall Estate

Wander through beautiful gardens filled with flowers and produce, perfect for a relaxed stroll.

Reddit+1
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Special Events

Leighton Hall hosts unique events like Apple Day and International Women's Day. Check their website and book tickets in advance, as these popular events can sell out quickly. Instagram+1

Embrace the Hands-On Experience

Unlike many stately homes, Leighton Hall encourages visitors to touch the furniture and artifacts. This 'hands-on' approach makes history feel more alive and personal. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Event Days
Why
Unique experiences await!
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed pace
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Leighton Hall Apple Day - Sunday 19th October. Tickets available now from www.leightonhall.co.uk
leightonhalllancashire
44 likes • 823 views

🎯 Hands-On History!

Don't be afraid to touch! It's encouraged here, making history feel real. Reddit

🦅 Bird of Prey Shows

Check show times upon arrival; they're a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

At Leighton Hall in Lancashire, our unwavering commitment to sustainable and sensitive architecture at the highest standard guided the restoration and extension of the historic Victorian glasshouse and loggia. This project proposed to restore the timber portion of the conservatory that was replaced in 2000. The replacement was in modern softwood, which had completely rotten, and the building had ...
crosbygrangerarchitects
10 likes • 371 views
Leighton Hall Apple day 🍎🍏 The weather not quite on our side today but still plenty of people came out to enjoy the day🤩 Thank you to all my lovely customers, supporting my little business! The fairies were a hit🧚🧚‍♀️ #driedflowers #lakedistrictflorist #leightonhall
blossomistofthelakes
13 likes • 284 views

☕ Cozy Tearoom

Enjoy coffee and cakes after your tour; it's a lovely way to relax. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Train & Walk Option

Accessible by train; enjoy a scenic walk through Leighton Foss to the Hall. Reddit

✨ Thank You for Making #IWD2025 Unforgettable! ✨ Last Friday, we were thrilled to gather at Leighton Hall for our Pink Link International Women's Day event! 💖 A huge thank you once again to everyone who joined us – your presence made this event truly special. We’d like to express our deepest gratitude to our incredible sponsors, speakers, guests, and allies for being part of this powerful day. Y...
pink_link_ladies
0 likes • 589 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Hands-On History!

Don't be afraid to touch! It's encouraged here, making history feel real. Reddit

🦅 Bird of Prey Shows

Check show times upon arrival; they're a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

☕ Cozy Tearoom

Enjoy coffee and cakes after your tour; it's a lovely way to relax. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Train & Walk Option

Accessible by train; enjoy a scenic walk through Leighton Foss to the Hall. Reddit

🌸 Garden Delights

Explore the beautiful gardens, especially lovely when in bloom. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(440 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Leighton Hall for its unique 'hands-on' approach to history, allowing them to touch artifacts and furniture in a lived-in home. The informative tours and engaging falconry displays are consistently highlighted as positives, alongside the beautiful gardens. Some find the house tour can get a bit crowded, and the tearoom is noted as being small.

"This is a small but impressive private stately home. There are extensive gardens and large grounds.
The tour of the house was very good but slightly spoiled by rather too many people. The house is very much a home which made it special.
There was also a bird of prey talk and display which was also excellent.
The cafe is necessarily quite small.
Ideally I would like to give it 4.5m"

Jeff Bulled

"Just spent a lovely afternoon here. An informative,relaxed tour allowing you to touch and look at objects.Great falconry display with some really interesting information and beautiful gardens full of flowers and produce. All for £13.50!
Cafe had decent coffee and cakes to top it off.Finally a mention to the staff who were super helpful and obviously enjoyed their job going as far to go off and find out about a question I asked."

Carolyn Long

"We arrived by train here. Walked through Leighton Foss &up to the Hall. We were met by the owner Suzie who was very nice. She told us to walk around the gardens then come to the hall for the guided tour.The gardens are pretty to see. The tour lasted an hour. We've never been in a home where you can sit on furniture &touch things.it felt abit strange as these things are hundreds of years old.but they live in these rooms &use them🤷‍♀️🤦‍♀️.The guide was very informative. Then there was a bird of prey show which was good. There is a tearoom.a small gift shop &toilets.also a few things dotted around in the gardens for little ones to look at &play on. Suzie also comes out to say goodbye &thankyou for coming. Nice touch.We visited with Historic Houses."

Cobbydale Sue

What People Like

Hands-on house tours
Informative guides
Falconry displays

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Small tearoom

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Leighton Hall is accessible by train. You can take a train to a nearby station and then enjoy a scenic walk through Leighton Foss to reach the Hall. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available for visitors at Leighton Hall. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, cycling is a great way to explore the Lancashire countryside, and you may find cycle routes that pass near Leighton Hall. Reddit

Many visitors arrive by train and enjoy a walk, while others drive directly to the Hall. The approach offers lovely views of the grounds. Reddit

While the historic nature of the house may present some challenges, the grounds are generally accessible. It's advisable to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility information. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, especially for special events. It's best to check the official Leighton Hall website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and tour schedules. Instagram

Admission prices are reasonable, often around £13.50, which includes the house tour and falconry display. Check the website for current pricing. Reddit

For general visits, booking in advance might not be strictly necessary, but it's recommended, especially during peak season or for special events like Apple Day. Instagram

Visitors with Historic Houses membership often gain entry. It's worth checking for any other potential discounts or group rates. Reddit

Typically, admission includes a guided tour of the house and the falconry display. Access to the gardens is also usually part of the ticket. Reddit+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The guided tour is a highlight, known for being informative, relaxed, and 'hands-on,' allowing you to touch historical objects. Reddit+1

Yes, there are often things for little ones to see and play on in the gardens, making it a family-friendly destination. Reddit

Leighton Hall hosts various events, including Apple Day, International Women's Day gatherings, and private functions. Instagram+1

Photography policies can vary. While some stately homes restrict interior photography, the 'hands-on' nature suggests a more relaxed approach, but it's best to confirm on-site. Reddit

The falconry display is excellent and informative, featuring impressive birds of prey. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a tearoom at Leighton Hall that serves decent coffee and cakes, perfect for a post-tour treat. Reddit+1

The tearoom typically offers coffee and cakes, providing a pleasant spot to relax. Reddit

Picnic areas are not explicitly mentioned, but it's generally best to consume food and drinks in designated areas like the tearoom to preserve the historic setting. Reddit

Specific dietary options are not detailed, but cafes often have a selection of cakes and beverages. It's advisable to inquire directly if you have specific dietary needs. Reddit

The tearoom's operating hours are likely tied to the Hall's opening season. It's best to check the official website for current availability. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The gardens offer beautiful floral displays and scenic views. The exterior of the Hall itself is also picturesque. Reddit+1

Photography policies inside historic homes can vary. While the 'hands-on' approach suggests a more relaxed attitude, it's wise to confirm on-site or check their guidelines. Reddit

For commercial photography or filming, it's essential to contact Leighton Hall directly to arrange permissions and discuss any associated fees. Instagram

Many visitors capture the beautiful gardens, the historic architecture, and moments from the falconry displays. Event shoots also feature florals. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted at private estates and historic properties due to privacy and safety concerns. It's highly recommended to seek explicit permission before flying a drone. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Leighton Hall offers a surprisingly engaging experience for families. The 'hands-on' nature of the house tour is a big plus, allowing children to interact with history in a way that's often not permitted elsewhere. They can touch furniture and feel like they're part of the story. Reddit

Beyond the house, the gardens provide space for children to explore, with mentions of play areas dotted around. The falconry display is also a guaranteed hit with younger visitors, offering excitement and a chance to see impressive birds up close. Reddit+1 The tearoom provides a convenient spot for a family snack. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

For those looking for value, Leighton Hall offers a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price. The admission fee typically covers the house tour, falconry display, and garden access, providing a full day's entertainment for around £13.50. Reddit

Consider visiting on a weekday afternoon to potentially avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more relaxed pace. Bringing your own snacks or enjoying a coffee and cake from the tearoom can help manage food costs. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

Leighton Hall is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. The continuous family ownership since the 13th century offers a unique perspective on the evolution of a stately home. The 'hands-on' approach allows for an intimate connection with centuries of history, from medieval artifacts to Victorian furnishings. Reddit+1

The detailed guided tours delve into the rich past of the Gillow/Reynolds family and the estate, providing insights that go beyond typical museum exhibits. The breadth of history covered, from its earliest origins to more recent restorations like the Victorian glasshouse, makes it a fascinating study. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Living Piece of History: The Leighton Hall Experience

Leighton Hall isn't just a museum; it's a private stately home that has been continuously inhabited by the Gillow/Reynolds family for centuries, with roots tracing back to the 13th century. This unique aspect is central to the visitor experience. Unlike many sterile historic houses, Leighton Hall offers a warm, hands-on approach, allowing guests to touch the furniture, sit on chairs, and interact with the artifacts. This creates a much more personal and engaging connection to the past, making history feel tangible and alive. Reddit+1

The guided tours are a significant part of this immersive experience. Guides are praised for being informative and relaxed, sharing real stories that bring the house and its former inhabitants to life. The tour covers a vast span of history, from medieval times through to the Victorian era, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the evolution of the estate and the lives lived within its walls. Reddit

Beyond the house itself, the extensive gardens and grounds provide a beautiful natural setting for exploration. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, admire the floral displays, and appreciate the produce grown on the estate. This blend of interior history and exterior natural beauty makes Leighton Hall a well-rounded destination for a day out. Reddit+1

Beyond the House: Falconry and Special Events

A major draw for visitors to Leighton Hall is the impressive falconry display. These engaging shows feature a variety of birds of prey, offering both entertainment and educational insights into these magnificent creatures. The displays are consistently highlighted as a positive and memorable part of the visit, adding an element of natural spectacle to the historical exploration. Reddit+1

Leighton Hall also serves as a venue for a variety of special events throughout the year. These can range from seasonal celebrations like Apple Day, which attracts many visitors and local vendors,Instagram+1 to community gatherings such as International Women's Day events.Instagram The estate is also utilized for private functions and shoots, showcasing its versatility as a location. Instagram

These events offer visitors a chance to experience Leighton Hall in a different light, often with added attractions and a lively atmosphere. Planning a visit around one of these special occasions can provide a unique and memorable experience, though it's advisable to book tickets in advance due to their popularity. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2