Writing’s On The Wall For Historic House

Historic graffiti dating back 400 years will reveal King James I’s beliefs that witches and witchcraft may not have all been of the Harry Potter variety!

Hoghton Tower in Lancashire, is holding a series of family fun days over the coming months and, as part of the initiative, it is holding a Historic Graffiti and Superstitious Beliefs Tour on Saturday March 16th, when visitors will be transported back to the early 1600’s when King James I was King.

Guides will articulate the monarch’s beliefs at the time and give an insight into the king’s fascination with witchcraft and describe the various forms of historic graffiti recently discovered at Hoghton Tower: symbols, marks and taper burns that the family and servants used to protect themselves from natural and supernatural forces.

Steeped in history and commanding breath-taking views across Lancashire, Hoghton Tower is a stunning Elizabethan house-on-the-hill, full of secret passages, priest holes, mysterious wells and deep, dark dungeons. Illustrious visitors have included 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.

Hoghton Tower 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 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 – NEW DATES AWAITED! Sold Out!

Calling all eager witches and wizards! Embrace your imagination in a new immersive story-telling adventure. Magical professors will teach you how to cast spells, brew exploding potions and practise broomstick racing.

Opera Dinner – Friday, April 19
Escape the ordinary and let the enchanting world of opera embrace your senses. Step into magnificent Banqueting Hall and be transported to a realm where troubles melt away and the magic of opera takes centre stage.

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

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.

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.

Getting There
By car, it is within easy reach of the M6 and M65, near Preston. Use PR5 0SH for sat nav reference.

By Train: Preston, Blackburn and Chorley stations are all within 25 minutes away via taxi.

By Bus: The Preston to Burnley bus stops within a 20-minute walk of the tower.

More Information
www.hoghtontower.co.uk Tel: 01254 852986