Nestled in the heart of Lancashire is a historical gem waiting to be discovered – a stunning manor house steeped in centuries of history, set amidst the tranquil countryside.

Samlesbury Hall, originally built in 1325, is a building teeming with untold stories. Its rooms bear the marks of its long history, all preserved from demolition in the 1920s by a group of six local businessmen.

Over the centuries, the estate has passed through the hands of four families. The influential Southworth family were the first owners, holding it from 1325 until 1678.

The last family to possess it, the Harrisons, were fortunate enough to own the estate between 1862 and 1924, before it was opened to the public.

Until that point, Samlesbury Hall had always been a private estate, serving various purposes over the years. It has functioned as an inn, a girls’ private school, and even a home for fabric weavers. Today, it is under the stewardship of the Charitable Trust, who ensure the grounds remain accessible to visitors.

The area of Samlesbury itself boasts a fascinating history, intertwined with tales of witchcraft in the 1600s. Three women, known as the Samlesbury witches – Jane Southworth, Jennet Bierley, and Ellen Bierley – were accused by a teenage girl of practising witchcraft, adding another layer of intrigue to this captivating locale.

Consequently, the three accused faced trial, an uncommon proceeding for that period, and amongst the most notorious in English legal history.

Significantly, Jane belonged to the influential Southworth family, who resided in and possessed this very manor at the time, and stood trial mere months following her husband’s passing.

Yet she isn’t the sole female figure to have left such a lasting mark on the hall and the family’s heritage. Legend has it that the spirit of Lady Dorothy Southworth haunts the passageways of Samlesbury Hall, after her death from a broken heart.

Countless ghost hunters and enthusiasts of the supernatural have documented strange sightings and occurrences on the premises. These encompass phantom footfalls, sightings of children and even skeletal remains discovered buried on the estate.

Nevertheless, the Hall actively embraces its spectral past, as the website declares: “At Samlesbury Hall we celebrate our haunted heritage and take our ghosts seriously.

“Since 2023 we have run an ongoing research project called the Samlesbury Hall Ghost Project. The project records witness testimonies, historic encounters and data from other sources and allows us to accurately record and document our supernatural heritage.”

One recent guest hailed it as an “awesome spot for relaxation”, having enjoyed a stay in a hut on the premises. They further shared their experience on TripAdvisor: “Fantastic location; the house was stunningly beautiful and packed full of history.

“The grounds are lush with nice gardens and plenty of green areas. The shepherd’s huts are roomy and really well equipped, and the addition of a fire pit is a real bonus. Would defo recommend.”

Meanwhile, another visitor shared: “Steeped in history, the Hall is absolutely beautiful. All the people we encountered were very friendly and helpful. Free to visit and really interesting. Would recommend it.”