Astley Hall and Park
Chorley’s famous Astley Hall Museum and Gallery is often referred to as the ‘Jewel in Chorley’s crown’ and features in Simon Jenkins book ‘Britain’s Best 1,000 Houses’. The history of the Hall itself is full of intrigue, with stories of plotting and religious turmoil. It dates back to Elizabethan times with changes and additions over the centuries, all helping make a visit to the Hall a fascinating and enjoyable experience. This grade 1 listed building truly is the jewel in Chorley’s crown, with stunning plaster work and architectural features. As the town’s museum and art gallery it is also home to items of local historical interest. Interiors include sumptuous plaster ceilings, fine 17th century oak furniture and tapestries. The Hall is spread over three floors; upstairs particularly of note are the Cromwell bedroom which has unusually enriched panelling and a plaster overmantel dating from the 16th century. A Priest’s hole can be found and ‘Cromwell’s bed’ in the Oak Room reveals an exquisite inlay on the canopy and floral carving on the headboard. The top floor houses the Long Gallery, and reveals the longest shovel-board in existence at 23 feet long, with twenty legs. Situated within hundreds of acres of historic, recently restored parkland, which is home to outdoor theatre and music events, there is a walled garden and Grade ll listed Coach House which houses two art galleries, offering exciting and changing exhibitions and Cafe Ambio. Astley Hall…
