The whole family will be kept royally entertained with a magical day out at Hoghton Tower this year.
Steeped in history and commanding breath-taking views across Lancashire, Hoghton Tower is a stunning Elizabethan house-on-the-hill.
People are invited to explore the ancient Tower and discover secret passages, priest holes, mysterious wells and deep, dark dungeons, as guides re-tell tales of the tower’s illustrious visitors – from King James I to Shakespeare and Charles Dickens.
With its striking drive, amazing views and impressive architecture, the Tower has had a starring role in many film and TV productions, including Sherlock Holmes and Peaky Blinders.
Visitors can marvel at the open piece of land in front of the house is known as the Tilting Green and explore three beautiful walled gardens to the rear of the manor house.
The Wilderness Garden with its large, lush lawn fringed by a textured herbaceous border and beautiful topiary.
Leading to the East Wing are the romantic Dorothy Steps and, just beyond the parapet walls, you can glimpse the ancient fairy-tale woodland.
A narrow doorway leads to the Rose Garden, the most formal and intimate area of the grounds, whilst the last doorway leads to the Ramparts Garden which affords views across miles of Lancashire countryside.
Hoghton Tower also hosts a huge range of special events throughout the year, including atmospheric ghost tours, seasonal trails and farmers’ markets. The tearoom is open during all of our events and activities.
Several events have already been confirmed (see list below), with more to follow. Keep an eye on the website (www.hoghtontower.co.uk) and Facebook out for new announcements and to book tickets.
WHAT’S ON 2024
School of Witchcraft and Wizardry – Saturday, February 10th- Friday, February 16th
Calling all eager witches and wizards! Embrace your imagination in a new immersive story-telling adventure. Our magical professors will teach you how to cast spells, brew exploding potions and practise broomstick racing. A spellbinding session full of mystery, magic and mischief awaits you!
This event is now SOLD OUT – keep an eye out for dates later in the year
Historic Graffiti and Superstitious Beliefs Tour – Saturday, February 17th & Saturday, March 16th
Transport yourself back more than 400 years to a time when King James I held firm beliefs about and against witches and witchcraft.
Your guide will give you an insight into the king’s fascination with witchcraft and describe the various forms of historic graffiti recently discovered at Hoghton Tower. You will see the symbols, marks and taper burns that the family and servants used to protect themselves from natural and supernatural forces.
Further dates to be added throughout the year.
Opera Dinner – Friday, April 19
Opera Dinner - Escape the ordinary and let the enchanting world of opera embrace your senses. Join us for an unforgettable evening where you can immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of opera as you indulge in a delightful feast.
Step into our magnificent Banqueting Hall as we transport you to a realm where troubles melt away and the magic of opera takes centre stage. The title, “Vissi d’arte, Vissi d’amore” captures the essence of this extraordinary event—live, love, and immerse yourself in pure artistic brilliance.
Motorcycle Sprint – Sunday, May 5
One of the classic and longest standing motorcycle events in Lancashire returns on Sunday 5th May 2024, raising funds for the Hoghton Tower Preservation Trust, which runs, maintains and restores the property. Experience the excitement as bikes of all classes take on the challenge of the spectacular driveway at Hoghton Tower against the clock in the 47th Annual Motorcycle Sprint.
Supercar Showtime – Sunday, 2nd June
Supercar enthusiasts from across the Northwest descend on Hoghton Tower in an exclusive event for all the family to enjoy. Returning once again, this fantastic, popular event aims to build on the success of its five previous events raising much needed funds for Derian House Children’s Hospice, Chorley. The public admission side of this event is in aid of Derian House and Hoghton Tower Preservation Trust.
Classic and Performance Motor Show – Sunday, 30th June
Organised by Great British Motor Shows and set at the historic Hoghton Tower with stunning views of the surrounding landscape making it a perfect day out. Classic Cars, Club Stands, Motorcycles, Light Commercials, Ex – Army and Classic 4×4’s. Trade stands, autojumble plus show arena on display on the event field plus the tilting greens and the tower courtyard at the historic Hoghton Tower.
Farmers’ Markets
Every month Hoghton Tower hosts a popular Farmers’ Market – a celebration of local producers, traders and craftspeople. Find the perfect gift or treat yourself to beautifully crafted and handmade pieces of artisan work. The market features a delicious range of Lancastrian fresh food from traditional pies and cheese, to fresh meat and fish and a mouthwatering selection of confectionery. The market is held on the third Sunday of every month, with the next one on Sunday, February 18.
Afternoon Tea
Visitors can pre-book a delicious afternoon tea as part of a trip to the Tower and Gardens or as a standalone treat, from £21. Check availability on the website.
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