Discover West Yorkshire’s Captivating Hidden Gem – Visit Stunning Shibden Hall
Nestled in the heart of Halifax lies the historic Shibden Hall – an enchanting 15th-century hall that offers a peek into the past. This architectural gem blends a mix of styles that reflect its rich and varied history. Beyond the manor itself sprawls a picturesque public park perfect for a refreshing stroll or family fun.
Shibden Hall was once home to prominent families like the wealthy Savilles, Waterhouses, and Listers who were cloth merchants and mill owners. However, the most famous resident was Anne Lister (1791-1840) who inherited the estate in 1826. The trailblazing Anne Lister bucked conventions – travelling widely, managing her own business affairs, and openly writing about her lesbian relationships in detailed diaries. She transformed the manor and grounds by adding a Gothic tower library and crafting terraced gardens, rock gardens, cascades, and a serene boating lake.
In 1933, the Lister family donated Shibden Hall to the Halifax Corporation to serve as a museum. Today, this remarkable museum offers an illuminating journey into the past with exhibits showcasing fine furniture, paintings, textiles, ceramics, toys, musical instruments and other belongings of former Hall residents. Visitors can immerse themselves in the life story of the captivating Anne Lister through audio tours and exhibits. Additionally, the museum hosts special events, guided tours, workshops, talks and festivals throughout the year.
Beyond the manor, the sprawling public park surroundings offer a scenic escape. Marvel at the ornate ‘Paisley shawl’ gardens from the 1850s, explore winding woodland trails, view the dry stone walling exhibition, or ride the mini steam railway. Children delight at the playground while adults can boat across the serene lake or challenge themselves at the adventure playground.
Truly, Shibden Hall is a one-of-a-kind destination offering enjoyment for all interests and ages. To plan your visit and guarantee entry, be sure to book timed tickets online in advance due to limited capacity. Check the website for opening times, special events, and directions. With its idyllic gardens and captivating history, Shibden Hall is one of West Yorkshire’s most endearing hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Admission:
To guarantee your visit, book your timed entry to Shibden Hall. On occasion, there may be an opportunity to purchase tickets on arrival in the hall, but time slots may not be guaranteed.
Please note:
Please book one ticket per person. Children under 5 don’t need a ticket.
Please arrive within your time slot. Sadly, if you arrive outside your time slot you may not be allowed entry
Opening Times:
Mondays – Fridays: 10:00 – 17:00
Saturdays & Sundays: 11:00 – 17:00
Note: The last admission will be one hour before closing.
Cost of admission:
Family ticket is £21; Individual £8. Children under 5 go free but still need a ticket as space is limited. Concession £5. Book online via Eventbrite (fees applicable -see site).
How to get to Shibden Hall:
By Motor Vehicle:
Shibden Hall is located off the A58 (Godley Lane), just northeast of Halifax, West Yorkshire, England, HX3 6XG. If visiting by car, follow the Heritage signs (brown) and then the signs to Shibden Park. There is car parking available on Shibden Hall Road (closest to the Hall – about 10 mins walk up the hill). Disabled parking for Blue Badge holders is available close to the Hall.
Parking is pay and display:
£0.50 for one hour
£1.00 for two hours
£1.50 over two hours
Parking is open 9 am to 6 pm daily, except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
By Public transport:
There are frequent buses; bus timetables are available on West Yorkshire METRO. You can also walk (20 minutes uphill) from Halifax bus station and 25 minutes from Halifax train station.
Accessibility:
Due to the historic nature of the Hall, access for those with disabilities is limited to wheelchair users to the Ground Floor only. (Shibden Hall offers free admission to all carers of individuals with disabilities.) For access advice or assistance, please contact Shibden Hall prior to your visit, staff will be happy to help.
The Fascinating Life of a Scholar, Businesswoman, Landowner, Traveller, and Lesbian
Anne Lister: Gentleman Jack, was certainly a woman ahead of her time. Born in 1791, she defied societal norms and expectations to pursue her passions and live life on her own terms. Specifically, she was a scholar, a businesswoman, a landowner, a traveller, and a lesbian. Therefore, in this article, we will delve into the fascinating life of Anne Lister, exploring her many accomplishments and shedding light on the remarkable woman she was.
Early Life and Education
Anne Lister’s birth took place on April 3, 1791, in Halifax, West Yorkshire, England. Being the eldest daughter of Jeremy Lister, a prosperous landowner, and his second wife, Rebecca Battle, she displayed remarkable intellectual prowess from an early age. Not only that, she possessed a fervent passion for reading. Initially, her education commenced at home, receiving instruction from private tutors. Conversely, as she matured, she ventured into different schools across England and Scotland, where, in due time, she demonstrated exceptional aptitude in subjects like mathematics, languages, and science.
Travels and Adventures
During her twenties, Anne embarked on extensive travels—altogether an uncommon endeavour for women in her era. She explored numerous European countries, such as Denmark, Germany, Switzerland, and France. Furthermore, her journeys not only expanded her horizons, but also granted her a distinct worldview. Of utmost significance, she meticulously chronicled her expeditions, often employing coded language to safeguard her privacy. As a result, her journals offer captivating glimpses into her remarkable experiences.
Business Ventures and Investments
Additionally, Anne Lister possessed astute business acumen, having inherited a substantial estate from her uncle. Moreover, she surprisingly and actively engaged in estate management, making strategic investments in coal mines and various industries. Most notably, Anne garnered recognition for her sharp business sense and adept negotiation skills. As a result, her financial expertise enabled her to accumulate a significant fortune, which she employed to finance her travels and pursue other personal interests.
Relationships and Sexuality
Anne Lister’s remarkable identity encompassed her profound lesbian orientation—a groundbreaking reality in her era. Notably, she fostered numerous meaningful connections with women throughout her life, meticulously chronicled within her diaries. Most notably, Anne formed a lasting bond with Ann Walker, whom she affectionately regarded as her spouse, and together they resided at Shibden Hall, Anne’s ancestral abode in Halifax. Consequently, their relationship braved formidable obstacles. Given society’s unwillingness to embrace their sexual orientation, resulting in substantial resistance from their families and social circles.
Personal Writing and Secret Code
Anne Lister was an avid writer, and for example, she kept detailed journals throughout her life. She likewise documented her travels, business ventures, and relationships in great detail, often using a secret code that she developed for the purpose of protecting her privacy. Additionally, her diaries provide a unique insight into the life of a woman living in the early 19th century and offer a glimpse into the challenges she faced as a lesbian.
Legacy and Recognition
In conclusion, Anne Lister’s legacy has been the subject of increased interest in recent years, and moreover, she has been recognised for her many achievements. In 2019, she was the subject of a BBC drama series, “Gentleman Jack,” which brought her story to a wider audience. Her diaries have also been the subject of numerous studies and analyses, undeniably shedding light on her life and the time in which she lived. She is therefore now widely recognised as a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ rights and, in addition, as a pioneering woman who defied societal norms and expectations.
The South Pennines offer plenty of choice when it comes to activities. For the best Pennines activities suitable for families, why not check these out:
Here are some of the best family-friendly activities to enjoy in the South Pennines Park:
Please note that some of these activities may have age restrictions or require advanced booking, so it’s always best to check ahead.
Safety First
When hiking or walking in the outdoors, particularly on the wild hills of the Pennines, it’s important to take proper precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for changes in weather conditions. Bring appropriate clothing and gear, such as waterproofs, warm layers, and sturdy footwear.
Plan your route and let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Stick to marked trails where possible, and carry a map and compass or GPS device.
Take enough food and water with you to last the duration of your hike. Bring snacks to keep your energy levels up, and consider bringing a stove to make hot drinks or food.
Be aware of wildlife and livestock in the area, and give them plenty of space. Keep your dog on a lead where necessary and follow the Countryside Code.
Be mindful of the environment and take your litter home with you. Respect any signs or restrictions in the area and avoid damaging vegetation or disturbing wildlife.
Carry a fully charged mobile phone with you in case of emergencies. Make sure you have the relevant emergency numbers for the area you are visiting.
