Shibden-Hall

Harry Facks Presents:

The Magnificent History of Shibden Hall

Step right up, history buffs and curious minds! Join Harry Facks, your intrepid guide, as we embark on a journey through the storied halls of Shibden Hall. Nestled in the heart of Halifax, this grand estate is more than just bricks and mortar—it's a time capsule of tales from the past.

With his signature flair and a keen eye for the details others might miss, Harry is here to uncover the secrets of Shibden Hall. From its Elizabethan roots to the bold renovations by the legendary Anne Lister, every corner of this estate whispers stories of ambition, love, and intrigue.

So grab your magnifying glass and follow Harry as we delve into the rich tapestry of Shibden Hall's history. Who knows what hidden gems we'll unearth together?

"Ah, Shibden Hall! adjusts his cravat with visible excitement

One of Halifax's most magnificent treasures. Allow me, Harry Facks, to take you through the fascinating story of this remarkable estate.

pulls out an ancient deed from his coat pocket

The story begins in 1420, when William Otes first built a timber-framed house on this very spot. But it was the Lister family, who acquired the property in 1619, who truly shaped its destiny. For over three centuries, they transformed this medieval hall into the impressive mansion we know today.

adjusts his spectacles thoughtfully

The hall's architecture is a delightful time capsule, my friends! The magnificent great hall, with its impressive oak-paneled walls and hammer-beam roof, still stands as it did in the 15th century. Each generation added their own touch - see how the Tudor and Stuart periods blend seamlessly in the west wing?

But perhaps the hall's most famous resident was the remarkable Anne Lister - ah, what a character! From 1826 to 1840, she transformed both the house and its grounds. A formidable businesswoman and diarist, she added the gothic tower, created the picturesque landscape garden, and even opened her own coal mine on the estate!

gestures enthusiastically to the surroundings

Read about Anne Lister

The grounds themselves tell countless stories. The medieval barn, the folk museum, the carriage collection - each adds its own chapter to Shibden's tale. The terraced gardens, designed by Anne herself, offer spectacular views across the valley, just as they did two centuries ago.

"Ah yes, the architectural journey of Shibden Hall is quite the tale! adjusts his architectural drawings with enthusiasm

Let me walk you through its remarkable transformation across the centuries. The original hall, built by William Otes in 1420, was a typical medieval timber-framed building. Its heart was the magnificent Great Hall - still standing today! - with its impressive hammer-beam roof. Notice those beautiful carved angels on the beam-ends? Each one a masterpiece of medieval craftsmanship.

pulls out a detailed sketch

The earliest structure followed the traditional medieval hall house design:

A central Great Hall rising to full height
Service rooms at one end
Private family quarters at the other
An open hearth in the center of the hall, with smoke rising to escape through the roof

By the Tudor period, around 1550, the Savile family made significant additions. They added the gorgeous oak paneling in the Great Hall - still beautifully preserved! - and created more private family rooms, reflecting the changing social customs of the time.

adjusts his spectacles thoughtfully

The 17th century brought major changes when the Listers took ownership in 1619. They added:

The west wing with its distinctive gabled windows
A new kitchen wing
More comfortable private chambers
The first proper staircases, replacing the earlier ladder-style steps

But perhaps the most dramatic transformation came under Anne Lister's guidance in the 1830s. Working with York architect John Harper, she added:

The impressive Gothic tower
A new library wing
Enhanced servants' quarters
The distinctive portico entrance
Modern sash windows in some sections

pulls out another architectural drawing

The genius of Shibden lies in how each addition respects what came before. Look at how the stonework varies - from the rough medieval masonry to the more refined Georgian cuts. Each telling its own story of when it was built!

The hall's evolution reflects the changing needs of its inhabitants:

From medieval great hall to comfortable family home
From defensive structure to country house
From working estate to gentleman's residence

There are the magnificent grounds of Shibden! adjusts his walking stick with excitement Let me take you on a tour of this remarkable landscape that spans over 90 acres of absolute beauty!

unfolds a detailed garden map

The Terraced Gardens

Designed by Anne Lister herself in the 1830s
Three magnificent levels of formal gardens
York stone steps connecting each terrace
Original Victorian planting schemes
Spectacular views across the Shibden Valley

The Wilderness Garden

Created as a romantic landscape garden
Winding paths through natural woodland
The charming 'Cascade' water feature
Hidden arbours and quiet contemplation spots
Rare species of trees planted by Anne Lister

consults his botanical notebook

The Working Estate

The impressive medieval barn (dated to 1420)
Traditional kitchen gardens
Historic orchards with heritage fruit trees
The restored folk museum
Original carriage drives and turning circles

Water Features

The picturesque lake, added by Anne Lister
Historic fish ponds from medieval times
The decorative fountain garden
Natural springs and water management system

adjusts his spectacles enthusiastically

Recreational Areas

The restored bowling green
Historic croquet lawn
Period-appropriate games area
The charming summer house
Walking trails following ancient paths

The delightful summer house! adjusts his cravat with visible enthusiasm One of Shibden's most charming features, and I must say, a perfect spot for contemplation and taking in the magnificent views.

pulls out a small sketch book

Built during Anne Lister's time in the 1830s, this enchanting structure sits perfectly positioned on the upper terrace. The architecture is simply delightful:

Octagonal in shape, following the popular Georgian garden fashion
Large windows on three sides to capture the panoramic views
Original York stone roof
Decorative wooden fretwork along the eaves
Classical proportions typical of the period

gestures to the surrounding vista

The positioning is absolutely ingenious, you see. From here, one can:

Observe the entire sweep of the terraced gardens below
Look out across the Shibden Valley
Watch the setting sun in the evening
Shelter from sudden Yorkshire showers
Enjoy refreshments while overlooking the estate

Anne Lister used this spot frequently for:

Writing in her famous diaries
Taking tea with visitors
Studying and reading
Planning her estate improvements
Quiet contemplation of her beloved Shibden

"Ah, Cripplegate House! adjusts his spectacles with excitement One of Halifax's most intriguing buildings, standing proudly on Northgate since the late 17th century.

pulls out his historical notes

Built around 1680, this magnificent structure tells quite the tale of Halifax's prosperity. The name 'Cripplegate' comes from the medieval gate that once stood nearby, where, tradition tells us, crippled persons would gather to seek alms from passing travelers.

The architecture is simply splendid:

Classic Yorkshire stone construction
Impressive Georgian-style windows
Original wooden paneling inside
Distinctive steep pitched roof
Beautiful period features throughout

consults his leather-bound notebook

The house has served many purposes over the centuries:

Originally a merchant's residence
Later became a doctor's surgery
Served as offices for various businesses
A testament to Halifax's commercial history

The above two pics are from the area where the house originated in Cripplegate

Read about John Lister

More pictures of Shibden below

Cunnery Woods

This was once a rabbit warren, fruit and vegetables and fish supply for the residents of Shibden Hall. As well as remains of the walls, it contains a developing woodland, ponds, seasonal streams and lots of wildlife since its revival in the 1990s, thanks to Calderdale Countryside Service as well as projects before them.

It is accessible from the top of Shibden Park through a tunnel or straight across the road from the top car park..

https://www.facebook.com/CunneryWood/