Nestled in the Burnley countryside, this stunning Hall is a haven for history enthusiasts and art lovers, boasting over 445 acres of surrounding land to wander.

Set amidst vast expanses of picturesque parkland, Towneley Hall has long been a cherished destination for family outings, with its expansive grounds and myriad attractions. The estate now comprises a museumand art gallery, housed within the continually evolving grand structure.

It's thought that the construction of the magnificent hall commenced in 1380, but it has undergone numerous transformations over the centuries to achieve its current appearance. When Richard Towneley spearheaded renovations in the 17th century, the building underwent its most significant changes, resulting in the existing layout - complete with a central hall and wings.

• The bustling market town that feels like stepping back in time


• Picturesque village forgotten for centuries with ancient bridges and babbling brook

Additional work was carried out later in the 18th century, contributing to its unique architectural features. The site was bought by Burnley Council in 1902 and has since seen further modifications before opening its doors as a public museum in 1903, supported by restoration grants.

Fondly referred to by some as 'the jewel in Burnley's crown', Towneley Hall now serves as a hub for all things art and education, attracting visitors with its exhibits and a rotating roster of events. All told, it houses an impressive and diverse collection of approximately 30,000 objects.

One section showcases rooms brimming with 17th-century furnishings from the area, offering glimpses into how people once lived through captivating artefacts. The collection boasts over 300 pieces including tables, cabinets, chairs and clocks, many crafted by local craftsmen of that period.

Another wing of the museum houses an impressive art collection featuring oil paintings, book illustrations, sculptures and watercolours by celebrated artists. Works by John William Waterhouse, Margaret Deborah Cooksley and Joseph Mallord William Turner can be found here, alongside pieces from other regional artists.

The beautifully maintained parklands outside offer an array of woodland trails, formal gardens and a children's play area, plus a golf course. Throughout the grounds are numerous historical points of interest, and it stands as the largest and only dog-friendly park in Burnley, according to its website.

Though closed during winter months, it's due to reopen on February 14 for visitors to discover at an affordable cost. Adult tickets are currently priced at £5.50, whilst entry remains free for under-17s and students.

One visitor shared their thoughts on TripAdvisor: "Lovely house and grounds with some really interesting exhibits. Staff are very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about sharing information about the hall and its history."

Another visitor said: "First visit to Towneley Hall. The grounds and hall were absolutely stunning. The guides in the room were amazing, they had so much knowledge about the hall and pointed out things we may have missed. We were also able to talk to them about wider issues about restoration and the importance of preserving history."