Smithills Hall

Smithills Hall One of Bolton's more original family homes, Smithills Hall is a dignified Grade 1 listed building, full of history and drama with an 800 year story. There are fine examples of historic architecture from Medieval and Tudor gubbins right through to Victorian times. It's a relatively dry visit in terms of the kids so best for older types who get imaginative in such places.

There's plenty to get the curious types going though, with old photographs of the long standing incumbents the Ainsworth family to add to the atmosphere, plus a series of intriguing and inspiring rooms to explore including the medieval Great Hall, Bower and Solar Rooms, Withdrawing Room, Chapel and Library. The hall is set in charming formal gardens next to the West Pennine Moors so if you're out on a family hike or scenic cycle ride then this can be a nice little stop to rest the legs and give them something to think about. It's worth bearing in mind that due to the age of the building there are seriously uneven floors and steps throughout and also wheelchair and pushchair access is to the ground floor only.