Hoghton Tower

The property is on a hill at the southwesterly end of the Pendle range. The estate has been owned by the Hoghton family since at least the 12th century. The present building dates from about 1560–65, and was built for Thomas de Hoghton (1518–1580), as a replacement for an earlier house. Connections with William Shakespeare through Alexander Hoghton who died in 1581 have been suggested, although this is disputed. King James I visited Hoghton between 15 and 18 August 1617, accompanied by a substantial retinue, and was joined by many of the leading local families. The visit is the subject of a later painting by the Victorian artist George Cattermole. On 16 August, he visited the alum mines…

Hoghton Tower is constructed in sandstone, with stone slate roofs. It has a double courtyard plan, the outer courtyard being entered on the west side through a large gatehouse. The inner courtyard has a west gateway, a great hall and kitchen on the north side, state rooms on the east, and living rooms on the south and west sides; it is mainly in two storeys. At the north east corner is a porch (this was formerly the site of a chapel). Bay windows project from the north and south sides of the great hall.

Hoghton Tower and the Great Barn were designated as a Grade I listed buildings on 22 October 1952. Listed at Grade II are the coach house and stables, and the gate piers on the drive to the west of the house. The gardens are listed at Grade II on the National Register of Historic Parks and Gardens. In 1978 the Hoghton Tower Preservation Trust was established as a charity for the preservation of the house, and to encourage education and research. It raises income by "charging an admission fee to visitors, running events, providing holiday accommodation and being rented out as a venue for weddings, filming, corporate entertainment and private functions". The house and gardens are open to the…