Hopwood Hall

Hopwood Hall is a two-story manor house of brick and stone in Rochdale featuring approximately 50,000 square feet of space arranged around a timber-framed central hall. The Grade II* listed building is structured in a quadrangle that creates distinct interior zones.

The Hopwood family held the estate from the 12th century until 1922, when the death of two heirs during World War I led to its closure. This moment ended a long period of family ownership that had shaped the property's development over centuries.

The basement served as a music venue when the building housed De La Salle College, hosting performances by notable bands including Black Sabbath and UB40. This creative use of the space shows how the house adapted to new purposes while maintaining its historic character.

The building is undergoing restoration work funded by Historic England and Rochdale Council to address structural issues. Check ahead before visiting as ongoing work may affect access to certain areas.

The hall contains a Jacobean fireplace carving featuring a lion that oddly resembles a monkey. The artist likely created this piece without ever seeing a real lion, resulting in an unexpected and humorous detail.