Whitworth Hall, County Durham facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Whitworth Hall Hotel & Deer Park |
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| General information | |
| Location | Stanner's Lane, Spennymoor, County Durham DL16 7QX, England |
| Coordinates | 54°42′25″N 1°37′59″W / 54.707°N 1.633°W |
| OS grid | NZ237347 |
Whitworth Hall is a historic country house located in Whitworth Hall Country Park, near Spennymoor, County Durham, England. This grand building was once the home of the important Shafto family. Today, it is a listed building, which means it's protected because of its special history and architecture.
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Discovering Whitworth Hall
Whitworth Hall is a beautiful old house with a long history. It's set in a lovely park where you can often see deer. The house has changed a lot over the years, from a family home to a hotel.
The Shafto Family's History
The Shafto family was very important in the area, especially in Newcastle upon Tyne. In the 16th and 17th centuries, members of the family held important jobs like Aldermen, Mayors, and Sheriffs. These were leading roles in the city's government and law enforcement.
In 1652, a man named Mark Shafto, who was a legal officer in Newcastle, bought the land where Whitworth Hall now stands. His son, Robert, became a knight and also held important legal positions. The family continued to grow in influence.
Famous Residents and Changes
Two of Mark Shafto's grandsons, Robert and John Shafto, became Members of Parliament for Durham City. This meant they helped make laws for the country.
John Shafto was the father of Robert Shafto, who became very well-known. You might have heard the old song "Bobby Shaftoe's Gone to Sea." This Robert Shafto became very wealthy when he married Anne Duncombe in 1774.
Their son, also named Robert, decided to build a new, grander mansion in 1845. Sadly, this new house was mostly destroyed by a fire. Only a part of it, the library wing, survived. The house you see today was rebuilt around 1900. It has two floors and seven sections, looking much like it did then.
The Shafto family also owned other large homes in places like Bavington Hall, Beamish Hall, and Windlestone Hall.
Whitworth Hall Today
For many years, Whitworth Hall operated as a hotel and a popular place for weddings. It was known as Whitworth Hall Hotel & Deer Park. However, the Hall is now closed and is believed to be empty.
