Photo: Markenfield Hall by Dennis Lovett, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
About this place
Markenfield Hall is a moated manor house dating from the early 14th century, standing about three miles south of Ripon in North Yorkshire.
Its crenelated outline and encircling moat have changed so little that the house would still be recognisable to its medieval builders.
Historic Houses lists Markenfield among its member properties, and visits run as small guided tours rather than open-house days.
It remains a family home, with tea and cake often arranged after a tour rather than served in any café.
Read more on WikipediaHistory
The Hall takes its name from the Markenfield family, who held the estate for centuries before the Grantley family acquired it in 1761. The Grantleys, who also built nearby Grantley Hall, can trace their line back to the original Markenfield owners, so the house has effectively stayed within one family's descent for around 500 years. It is currently lived in by the widow of the 7th Lord Grantley, who continues restoration work on the Hall and its estate.
Architecture
The house is built around a fortified medieval core, with its crenellations and moat surviving largely intact from the early 14th century rather than added later for effect.
Worth knowing
Two black swans once patrolled the moat until 2019, when the family found an otter had moved in instead.
Plan your visit
Nearest station: Knaresborough Rail Station (7.1 miles)
Open by appointment for guided tours between April and October; check official website for specific dates and availability.
Nearby properties
Studley Royal Park including the Ruins of Fountains Abbey
View Studley Royal Park including the Ruins of Fountains Abbey on heritage mapStudley Royal Park
View Studley Royal Park on heritage mapSt Mary's Church, Studley Royal
View St Mary's Church, Studley Royal on heritage mapHistoric places nearby
Within 5 miles of Markenfield Hall there are 6 historic properties, including 2 historic buildings and 2 historic houses, across English Heritage, Historic Houses and National Trust sites.
Within 10 miles of Markenfield Hall there are 15 historic properties, including 5 historic houses, 4 historic buildings and 3 churchs, across Historic Houses, English Heritage and Churches Conservation Trust sites.
Within 20 miles of Markenfield Hall there are 32 historic properties, including 11 historic houses, 9 churchs and 6 historic buildings, across Historic Houses, Churches Conservation Trust and English Heritage sites.
Facts
A 14th-century moated manor still lived in and cared for by the family descended from its original builders.
- Type
- historic house
- Location
- North Yorkshire, England
- Visit duration
- Approximately 90 minutes
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