When you think of Salford Quays the modern buildings of Media City probably spring to mind. Yet only a short walk away is where you’ll find one of the oldest buildings in Greater Manchester.
Tucked away in a housing estate, Ordsall Hall was standing long before all the structures which surround it. The hall dates back more than 750 years, although the oldest surviving parts of the present hall were built in the 15th century.
It’s a Grade I listed building full of historical details, from beautiful stained glass windows to Tudor features. In fact it's one of the few remaining Tudor manors in the UK to retain many of its original features, including the mediaeval domestic quarters in The East Wing and one of the largest example of a timber-framed hall.
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The hall has had an interesting and varied past so it’s impressive that so much of its historical features remain today. It was the home of the Radclyffe family for more than 300 years, before then it was sold in the 1660s.
After being occupied by various families occupied the hall, it was then used as a working men’s club, a school for clergy and a radio station. In the 1950s the hall was bought by the old Salford Council and today it can be visited for free.
With such a long history it’s no surprise that Ordsall Hall is reputedly haunted. One of the ghosts said roam the corridors is the White Lady, believed to be Margaret Radclyffe who died of a broken heart in 1599 when her brother died in Ireland. Sir John Radclyffe is another spirit said to linger in the building.
Ordsall Hall is a family-friendly place to visit with several historical rooms to explore and artefacts to discover. There are regular events running at the Hall throughout October half term to help keep kids entertained.
For the whole week there are different Grimm Fairy Tale scenes set up around the Hall, including Hansel and Gretel and Rumpelstiltskin. There are also several workshops taking place, including wand making and clay monster making. For more details click here.
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