Things to do: Crook Hall

Relaxation, beauty, tranquility and just on a Durhamites door step. What more could you ask for?

Crook Hall encompass all that, and more; a hidden gem located right in the centre of Durham.

 

 

 

As you step through the gates into Crook Hall and Gardens you are transported from the popular student town, into a place of natural beauty. A 13th Century Grade I listed medieval hall, surrounded by a number of gardens, each with their own natural charm.

 

 

The afternoon started with the maze...two entrances could only mean one thing...a race to the centre!

 

A-maze-ing (I'm sorry!)

 



 

And it wasn't easy at all! Wrong turning after wrong turning took place, and the suspence of losing the race built up. Until finally we ran into each other and raced down the path which we knew must lead to the middle!

 

 

 

And a race worth winning, it was. Just look at the beautiful view you are blessed with once you reach the centre!

 

After we found our way out (almost as complicated as getting in!), we began to follow our printed tour given to us at the gate. First stop, The Secret Garden.

 

 

 

Ever seen the film 'The Secret Garden'? Walking through the wooden, latched door felt like stepping on to the set.
 

The woven branches of trees overshadowed trellises as we explored the pathways through the garden.

Benches, chairs and tables were placed in secluded spots, where one could sit and take in their surroundings.

 

 

Hidden figures caught our eyes as we meandered through the garden. This garden, especailly, would be a fantastic place for children to explore, with hidden figures for them to find, including the statue by the stone water trough...

 

 

As well as fantastically carved faces...

 

 

And of course we were spoilt with a beautiful view of the hall.

The Hall itself shows a rare example of three eras of English archetecture; mediaeval, Jacobean and Georgian, all sat neatly alongside one another.



 

 

Autumnal colours crept up the beautiful buildings, enticing us inside.

 

And what better welcome than a fantastic roaring log fire?!

 

We were drawn over by the heat on this crisp, cold afternoon, but not for long. There was too much else to explore!

 

Next we entered the Medieval Hall, then had a chance to view it's beauty from the gallery.

Crook Hall is a popular wedding venue for many couples, surely just emphasising the charm of the place!

After climbing more stairs we came to the attic, a place where many brides often choose to get ready for their special day!

 

Complete with a beautiful view of the Cathedral.

 

 

As we carried on our adventure, next came the Georgian Dining Room, which proved itself as a fantastic place for afternoon tea and refreshments.

 

Take a look at some of the fantastic reviews here.

 

 

Not just a spot for women to catch up...take a look at this Manly Afternoon Tea Menu!

 

 

After warming up in the house, we ventured out again to explore more of the beautiful gardens.

 

 

 

A maze of beauty, and a place of reflection.

 

We finished our adventure in The Cathedral Garden. What a way to end the trip, with a beautiful view of the Cathedral, emphasisng the fact that you are still in Durham town.

 





I really couldn't recommend this place enough. The staff are extremely helpful, and so lovely, and the venue itself is a treat.

They hold a number of events throughout the year, including special affairs at Halloween and Christmas and I've heard afternoon tea in the Garden during the summer months is worth booking in for! Students should also keep an eye out for events (this was actually on the afternoon of a student event, entitling all students to free entry!)

Have a peek at their website here...oh, and watch for the White Lady who haunts the house!