Crook Hall and Gardens is a captivating estate that sits comfortably near the heart of Durham. At its heart is the thirteenth century, Medieval Hall. But there are plenty of other highlights to enjoy including the majestic grounds.
The Medieval Hall itself is an architectural gem, one of the few remaining in the country. With its exposed wooden beams, stone fireplaces, and charming alcoves, the hall transports you back to an era long past.
It’s a place where you can almost hear the echoes of ancient banquets, noble gatherings, and perhaps even some medieval music. But what really makes Crook Hall unique is how it marries this historical charm with a kaleidoscope of gardens, each with its own distinct character and design.
As you step outside the hall, you’ll find yourself in a patchwork of themed gardens that seem to emerge right out of a fairy tale. There’s the Shakespeare Garden, a poetic setting filled with plants mentioned in the Bard’s plays.
Walk a bit further and you may find yourself in the Orchard Garden, where fruit trees create a rustic and idyllic backdrop. Then there’s the Silver and Gold Garden, a gleaming spectacle of botanical hues, and let’s not forget the Secret Walled Garden, which gives the term ‘hidden gem’ a new meaning.
Each garden is a universe in itself, meticulously designed to evoke specific moods and themes. Whether you’re an avid gardener looking for inspiration, a couple seeking a romantic setting, or a family wanting to explore, there’s a corner in Crook Hall’s gardens that speaks directly to you.
And what’s even more enchanting is that each season paints these gardens in a different light, ensuring that each visit offers a unique experience.
Events and activities pepper the calendar year-round, making Crook Hall a dynamic, ever-evolving attraction. From traditional afternoon teas served in the Georgian Drawing Room to seasonal festivals celebrating everything from flowers to history, the estate ensures that every visit is more than just a visual feast—it’s an interactive and enriching adventure.
Crook Hall and Gardens offers a journey through architectural epochs, horticultural wonders, and the ever-changing seasons. It captures the essence of what makes England so endearing: a reverence for history, a celebration of nature, and an ever-present sense of enchantment.
Address – Frankland Lane, Sidegate, Durham, DH1 5SZ
Telephone – 0191 383 1832
Website – https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/north-east/crook-hall-gardens
