One of Manchester’s hidden gems is to open its doors to the public for the first time in four years.
Grade I listed Heaton Hall, the centrepiece of Heaton Park, will be open for Heritage Open Days and for regular tours from October.
Built in 1772 as the family home of Sir Thomas Egerton, the neo-classical building is lavishly decorated and was designed by architect James Wyatt. It was owned by the Egerton family until 1902 when it was purchased along with its grounds by the Manchester Corporation for £230,000.
Pre-booked guided tours will be on offer for Heritage Open Days on Saturday September 12 and Sunday September 13, and from October the Friends of Heaton Hall will continue regular tours from noon-4pm on the second Sunday of the month.
The park’s Stable Café will also offer visitors the chance to have afternoon tea in Heaton Hall’s library, which also requires pre-booking.
The Hall has undergone a programme of conservation and restoration works in recent years to restore the roof, stonework and windows funded by Historic England in partnership with Manchester City Council. The park itself has also secured cash through the council’s Clean City Fund, using dividend payments through the council’s shareholding in Manchester Airport.
See more buildings to visit for Heritage Open Days in Manchester.