Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens is now owned by English Heritage but for over 7 centuries it belonged to the Middleton family.
The Castle is dominated by a 14th century Pele Tower. A Jacobean mansion was added to the castle and became home to the Middleton Family until 1817 when they moved to Belsay Hall. Views from the castle of the surrounding countryside are quite magnificent.
The building of Belsay Hall began in 1807. The Hall was designed by Sir Charles Monck(formerly Middleton), the design being inspired by the temples of Greece.
The architecture of the castle and the Hall (which are unfurnished) provide an interesting visit however it was the gardens that had brought us back to Belsay for a second visit.
The extensive grounds are a mixture of formal and informal gardens and they link the Hall with the Castle. The pathways have level access with what the staff describe as Golden Gravel – it certainly provided a more solid surface than a standard Gravel Pathway. There is seating throughout the gardens providing a place to sit and take in the sights and scents.
The rather unusual Quarry Garden is a garden not to be missed!. It is filled with exotic plants and was created where the stone was once cut for Belsay Hall. This garden is a good half mile walk through the grounds from the hall but there is no steep gradients and there is an Access Map available for Wheelchair Users. Seating is provided in the Quarry Garden.
The venue provides eating facilities in The Tea Room, which is in the original kitchen of the Hall. The Tea Room serves light meals and snacks. For those preferring outdoor eating there is a picnic area outside the hall.
A shop with level access has a range of gifts and products to buy.
The staff here I found to be friendly and only too happy to provide information/help.
The venue is open 10-6 seven days a week but it is advisable to check in advance as there are reduced opening times during the Winter season.
Entry fees are £8 adult Concessions £7.20 with carers admitted free. There are reduced rates for children.
As I have some mobility issues I was pleased to see disabled parking available in the car park and facilities for disabled set down close to the Hall. Other facilities for the less mobile include:
Wheelchair loan (please book in advance) Handrails in some areas Accessible WC. Wheelchair Access by ramp. RADAR key access to provide level access to the Hall. Level Access to the shop ad Café, Seating throughout the venue. Carers admitted free The grounds do not have steep gradients, and consist of good quality gravel. Parital access to the Castle (partial due to a spiral staircase. Friendly helpful Staff.
