Astley Hall

Astley Hall is a red brick house from the 17th century with an asymmetrical front and extended bay windows featuring mullions and transoms. The property is noted for its detailed window design and typical English architecture of that era.

The Charnock family obtained the land in the 15th century from the Knights of Saint John and built an original timber-framed structure. It was later rebuilt as a brick house in the 17th century, the form that survives today.

The interior showcases mid-17th century plasterwork on the ceilings of the Great Hall, along with Flemish tapestries and hand-crafted oak furniture throughout. These elements give visitors a direct sense of the artistic and craft quality of that period.

Visitors should provide advance notice to arrange group visits or research appointments to see collection items not currently on display. Access to certain areas may depend on prior arrangement.

The top floor gallery contains a shovelboard table measuring about 23 feet, one of the largest surviving examples of period gaming furniture. This massive piece shows the kind of entertainment that wealthy households enjoyed.