Melbourne Hall and Gardens Houses

Melbourne Hall is a delightful house full of history.

Originally a rectory for the Norman Parish Church, it became the home of Sir John Coke in 1628 and has been inherited by subsequent members of the family to the present day and is now home to Lord and Lady Ralph Kerr and their young family.

This wood panelled room stands on the site of the original 13th Century rectory building used by the Bishops of Carlisle. Sir John Coke made alterations to the hall in 1629 and the oak panelling dates back to that time. Fine portraits by Sir Peter Lely and Cornelius Jansens can be seen here and 17th Century walnut high back chairs with unique 20th Century tapestry seats surround the mahogany dining table, which is often set ready for the family's evening meal.

Melbourne Hall gardens are the place to visit if you are seeking a relaxing thoughtful stroll.

The Gardens were planned by Rt. Hon. Thomas Coke in the early part of the 18th century. The colourful and tranquil garden has been imaginatively updated with some new planting by Lady Ralph Kerr, and then also captured in oil on canvas and sketches in fine detail by Lady Ralph Kerr.

The gardens are designed with paths allowing easy access, and intersected by streams that flow through the grounds underneath miniature bridges and through the lush flower beds.

Melbourne Hall is open every day of August, 2pm - 4. 15pm (last entry) (except first three Mondays) including pre-booked parties.

Telephone: 01332 862502

The Gardens

The Gardens are open April through to September 1. 30pm - 5. 30pm Wednesday, Saturday, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays (additional open days possible in August)

Telephone: 01332 862502.