Bramall Hall – A Sneak Preview

29 Jul 2016

I Love Cheadle Hulme & I Love Bramhall were delighted and honoured to be invited along to a special preview of the restoration work undertaken at Bramall Hall, ahead of the Grand Reopening this weekend.

Sadly, it’s true – tickets for the tours this weekend HAVE indeed all sold out (we’re not surprised) but do NOT miss out, come along anyway – there’s so much going on in and around the park:

TUDOR FESTIVAL IN THE PARK – Weekend 30 -31 July

Outside the Hall there will be a Tudor celebration of colourful jesters, archery, campfire cookery, traditional crafts, strolling minstrels and a tented encampment which will bring a festival atmosphere to the grounds.

Don’t forget to visit the new Stables Kitchen Café and experience the delicious Tudor themed menu and Hog roast.

On Thursday evening we were greeted in the entrance hall with a glass of fizz and delicious canapés, before heading inwards to be entertained by a talented quartet of musicians – enjoying further canapés and fizz top-ups – where we were joined by Mayor Chris Gordon, Deputy Mayor Lisa Walker, MP Mary Robinson and Bramhall’s dedicated team of councillors. Caroline Simpson from SMBC began proceedings, introducing Professor Gorb from the Royal Northern College of Music, who has specially commissioned a piece for Bramhall Hall. The piece is, as yet, unnamed, so do let us have your suggestions…

Caroline explained that this was an evening of thank yous and celebrations – not least to Alison Farthing and her wonderful team, from Restore Bramhall Hall who have worked tirelessly to achieve the most amazing results. Stockport Council Executive Eamonn Boylan was also thanked. According to Mr Boylan, back in 1086, the whole of Bramhall could’ve been bought for five shillings. Now, where did I put the keys to the time machine? It was fantastic that the council shared Restore Bramall Hall’s aspirations, believing Bramall Hall to be the most beautiful building in the North West, not just Stockport.

Of course, the restoration wouldn’t have been possible without the £1.6 million grant from the heritage lottery fund, as well as countless other investments and donations. Particular further thanks were also made to the contractor, William Anelay, who have completed the job with care, dedication and passion. Chief Executive of William Anelay, Charles Anelay (the 8th generation!) explains that his firm felt privileged to work on such a project and to play a part in Bramall Hall’s history.

As well as restoration of some of the windows, the work has included the spectacular plaster ceiling in the withdrawing room as well as the opening of two new rooms. Disabled access has been improved and there’s a new business centre, relocated gift shop and beautiful new café area – well worth a trip.One more glass of bubbles and it was time for our sneak preview tour of the Hall. We won’t spill too many beans here – you MUST visit for yourself – but suffice to say the work has been well and truly worth it and the results are simply breathtaking. How lucky are we to have such a magnificent and significant mansion on our doorsteps?