Ordsall Hall Salford
A stunning Tudor manor house offering free entry, rich history, and beautiful gardens, serving as a vibrant community hub.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Ordsall Hall Salford
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Tudor manor house offering free entry, rich history, and beautiful gardens, serving as a vibrant community hub.
"Definitely recommend Ordsall Hall for a great day out AND ITS FREE!! "
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
While entry is free, there's a small charge for parking. Consider public transport if possible.
🤝 Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff
Volunteers like Sue are incredibly helpful and share fascinating insights about the hall's history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Hall
Ground Floor
Step back in time in this magnificent Tudor hall, the heart of the manor. Imagine feasts and gatherings of centuries past.
Period Rooms
Upstairs
Explore meticulously recreated rooms showcasing life in different eras, offering a glimpse into the hall's rich history.
Landscaped Gardens
Exterior
Wander through beautiful gardens, including a wildflower meadow in the moat and a traditional knot garden.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Donations Welcome
Check Opening Times
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
While entry is free, there's a small charge for parking. Consider public transport if possible.
🤝 Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff
Volunteers like Sue are incredibly helpful and share fascinating insights about the hall's history.
☕ On-site Cafe
Enjoy a refreshment at the small cafe on the ground floor, perfect for a break during your visit.
🖼️ Fascinating Exhibits
Don't miss the exhibits, including videos on local history like slum clearances.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
While entry is free, there's a small charge for parking. Consider public transport if possible.
🤝 Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff
Volunteers like Sue are incredibly helpful and share fascinating insights about the hall's history.
☕ On-site Cafe
Enjoy a refreshment at the small cafe on the ground floor, perfect for a break during your visit.
🖼️ Fascinating Exhibits
Don't miss the exhibits, including videos on local history like slum clearances.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ordsall Hall for its free entry, beautiful Tudor architecture, and engaging period rooms. The friendly and knowledgeable volunteers, like Sue, are frequently highlighted for enhancing the experience. The well-maintained gardens, including the unique moat meadow, also receive positive mentions, making it a highly recommended historical gem.
"We came to visit last week and had a lovely time. Sue, a volunteer, was so helpful and gave us lots of help and information. So thank you to Sue! She really was brilliant.
Will definitely come back for a visit again.
It is free to go in, which is great, and donations really help to keep this hidden gem open."
Dawn
"What a fantastic place & for free!!! There is an optional donation which is £3 per person but it is worth it.
My daughter now 10, nieces 12 & 15 absolutely loved it.
From the ghost stories to the dressing up…that even I participated! 💃 is brilliant!
There is a very creepy doll in the attic a few hundred years old (didn’t want the image on my camera 🤣 too superstitious! )
Lovely orchards & gardens, very well cared for.
The building is beautiful, It’s very informative & interactive, well worth a visit with or without children.
Each floor has a lift if needed & toilets.
The staff are very helpful, friendly & knowledgeable. We were last minute able to get on to the clay workshop as spaces opened up. It’s an extra £3 per person, which wasn’t too bad but I think they could have done with more tools for cutting out, stencils etc.
The little onsite cafe is cute, averagely priced, I had sourdough toast & a double shot cappuccino & that cost £6.
The little shop has a few bits & bobs, what I did like is that you can buy apples & lavender bags and pay what you feel is fair. I love that 🫶
On site parking available, I paid £2.60 for 3 hours. I think you can park local & walk but double check that.
Outdoor tables for your own food or bought from the cafe.
Lovely day out for the summer holidays ✌🏽💛
Absolutely recommend here ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️"
Leona Kenyon
"Excellent place to visit, it's right in the middle of new buildings and houses so it looks odd lol but it's a cool place to visit. The Café is cheap and staff are excellent."
Maxine P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ordsall Hall is conveniently located just minutes from Manchester city centre. You can reach it by public transport, including buses that serve the MediaCityUK area, or by car. Parking is available on-site for a small fee.
Yes, Ordsall Hall is accessible via public transport. Several bus routes serve the nearby MediaCityUK, from which it's a short walk. It's also a good option for a day trip from Manchester.
There is a car park available at Ordsall Hall, but visitors should be aware that there is a small charge for parking.
Absolutely! Ordsall Hall makes for a wonderful and easily accessible day trip from Manchester, offering a historical escape without traveling too far.
While specific cycle paths aren't detailed, the area around Ordsall Hall is generally accessible by bike, and it's a pleasant ride from Manchester. Secure bike parking information would need to be confirmed directly with the venue.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Ordsall Hall is free! However, donations are gratefully accepted to help with the upkeep and preservation of this historic building.
Generally, you do not need to book tickets in advance for general admission as entry is free. However, for special events or group visits, it's always best to check the official Ordsall Hall website or contact them directly.
Ordsall Hall has specific opening days and times for its interior. It's essential to check their official website or social media channels for the most up-to-date information before planning your visit, as these can vary.
Yes, donations are highly encouraged. They play a vital role in helping to keep this 'hidden gem' open and well-maintained for everyone to enjoy.
The gardens and exterior of Ordsall Hall are often accessible even when the interior is closed to the public. However, it's advisable to confirm this with the venue beforehand if you're specifically planning to see the gardens.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside Ordsall Hall, you can explore the magnificent Great Hall, discover period rooms showcasing different eras, and view fascinating exhibits, including videos on local history.
Ordsall Hall frequently hosts craft events and other community activities. It's worth checking their schedule for any upcoming events during your planned visit.
Yes, Ordsall Hall offers excellent photography opportunities, both inside with its historic architecture and period details, and outside in its beautiful gardens.
Ordsall Hall is a Grade 1 listed Tudor manor house with a rich history spanning over 500 years. It has been home to various prominent families and has witnessed significant local historical events.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside Ordsall Hall, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions or guidelines on the day of your visit, especially regarding flash photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small cafe located on the ground floor of Ordsall Hall, offering refreshments for visitors.
The cafe typically offers light refreshments, snacks, and beverages. It's a convenient spot to relax and refuel during your visit.
Given its proximity to MediaCityUK, there are numerous dining options available in the surrounding area if you wish to explore beyond the hall's cafe.
While picnicking in the gardens might be permissible, it's best to confirm Ordsall Hall's policy on bringing outside food. The on-site cafe provides a convenient option for meals and snacks.
Information on specific dietary options at the cafe is not widely available. It's recommended to inquire directly with the cafe staff upon arrival regarding any dietary needs.
📸 📸 Photography
The Great Hall, the period rooms, the knot garden, and the moat with its wildflower meadow offer fantastic photo opportunities. The exterior architecture is also very photogenic.
For professional photoshoots or commercial photography, you will likely need to seek permission and potentially pay a fee. It's best to contact Ordsall Hall directly to inquire about their policies.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and residential areas. It is highly unlikely that drone photography is permitted at Ordsall Hall without explicit, special permission.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for interior shots. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the grandeur of the Great Hall and rooms.
While personal photography is usually allowed, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect delicate artifacts or exhibits. Always look for signage or ask staff if unsure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for any family-friendly craft events or activities that might be scheduled during your visit. The accessible nature of the hall and its grounds makes it easy to navigate with younger children, and the engaging exhibits can hold their attention. Remember to check for any specific family programs or trails they might offer.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the exhibits detailing the slum clearances and the hall's various inhabitants. The architectural nuances of the building itself, from its original structure to later modifications, are also worth noting. It's a place where history feels tangible.
🎨 Art & Culture Seekers
If you're interested in local art and culture, check the hall's schedule for any temporary exhibitions or workshops. The proximity to MediaCityUK also means you're in an area rich with creative industries, making it a good starting point for exploring Salford's cultural scene.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Ordsall Hall's History
One of the most compelling aspects of Ordsall Hall's history is its connection to the local community. The hall has served various purposes throughout its existence and has been a focal point for the Ordsall area. Exhibits within the hall often delve into the social history of the surrounding neighborhoods, including fascinating accounts of slum clearances, offering a poignant look at the area's transformation.
The hall's preservation is a testament to community effort. Its transformation from a private residence to a public heritage site ensures that its stories and architectural beauty can be shared. The volunteers play a crucial role in bringing its history to life for visitors, sharing anecdotes and detailed information that enrich the experience.
The Gardens and Grounds
A unique feature of the grounds is the wildflower meadow located within the moat that surrounds the hall. This naturalistic planting creates a haven for local wildlife and adds a rustic beauty to the landscape. The contrast between the formal knot garden and the wilder meadow provides a diverse and engaging outdoor experience.
Beyond the formal gardens, the wider grounds offer pleasant walking paths. While the hall itself is the main attraction, spending time in the gardens allows visitors to appreciate the setting and enjoy a moment of peace. The combination of historical architecture and natural beauty makes the grounds a significant part of the Ordsall Hall visit.
Community and Volunteer Spirit
Volunteers, such as Sue mentioned in reviews, are instrumental in providing an exceptional visitor experience. They are often on hand to offer detailed information, share personal insights, and answer questions, making the visit more engaging and informative. Their enthusiasm for the hall is palpable and greatly appreciated by guests.
This community-driven approach means that Ordsall Hall feels alive and relevant. It's a place where local stories are preserved and shared, and where visitors can feel a genuine connection to the history and people associated with the hall. The free entry, supported by donations, further emphasizes its role as a public asset.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit