Speke Hall

County: Merseyside

Month Visited: February 2018

Given to the National trust in 1942, Speke Hall is Tudor timber-framed manor house. It was built by the devout Catholic Norris Family, and was restored in 19th Century. Upon arrival to the location you drive through what can only be described as an industrial estate, alongside John Lennon airport, through the gates to the property – the only national trust property I’ve visited so far which is so close to the hustle and bustle of everyday life! It did feel a little surreal, like you were in a bubble of the 16th Century with the occasional noisy airplane take off sound to bring you right back to the 21st Century.

The café, visitor centre and toilets are located at the front of the grounds, you walk through and down to the house. Access is fairly flat and therefore perfect for children or the elderly. There is also a large play park for children.

House

The house was impressive, built from timber and is set over two levels, some parts of the house due to health and safety and fire regulations are no longer accessible. However, there are a number of intricacies within the house, such as the stunning ceilings:

There were lots of quirky aspects to this house, and I would recommend popping along to one of the Tudor tours to gain valuable insight into these. Some of these involve secret rooms, priest holes and an insight into the building of the property. 

The house is built in such a way that the middle of the property contains two yew trees - named 'Adam' and 'Eve'

Adam and Eve Yew Trees

The house was also built in stages, however the great hall (below) was a part of the original house, built in 1530. Wings and additional parts were built and added later.

After years of neglect and being held in a trust for 21 years before finally being given to the National Trust it is clear this house has seen it all (at one point it was even used as a cow shed!)

Grounds

As we were visiting in February, prior to the arrival of the ‘beast from the east’ so the weather was pretty nippy, therefore the gardens weren’t appreciated as much as expected. In fact I did refer to Speke Hall and Gardens as ‘Speke Hall and Lawn’. However, we were reliably informed during the spring/summer months the garden is filled with roses and other flowers. The grounds were small in comparison to other National Trust properties but nonetheless a good day out. The property used to be surrounded by a moat, which is clear by the drop in terrain and bridges around the property. 

The paths around there property were clearly identifiable, however a little muddy in places!

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RATING

Summary

-Located in Merseyside

-Tudor Architectural Style
-Grade 1 listed building

-This is a National Trust Property

-Cafe and Toilets are available on site

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INFORMATION

Address The Walk, Speke, Liverpool, L24 1XD

Telephone +441514277231

Email spekehall@nationaltrust.org.uk

Website https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/speke-hall-garden-and-estate 

Parking Free 

Nearest Station Liverpool South Parkway and Hunts Cross Station