‘Best kept secret’ hall opens doors

Wakefield’s Grade II* listed Woolley Hall is having an open day in an attempt to shrug off its tag as one of the city’s “best kept secrets”.

By The Newsroom

Published 26th Aug 2011, 07:00 BST

The council-owned hall, which is an example of early Jacobean architecture, is used as a venue for weddings, business conferences and other events.

Councillor Graham Stokes, cabinet member with responsibility for corporate services, said: “Woolley Hall is one of Wakefield’s best kept secrets.

“Many visitors are just happy to stroll around the gardens without realising that the hall itself is an excellent venue.”

Woolley Hall, which is approved for civic marriages, stands in over 20 acres of parkland and formal Italian gardens.

The present Woolley Hall was built in 1635 and was later renovated around 1800 by architect Sir Jeffry Wyatville, who was employed by George IV to remodel Windsor Castle, Chatsworth House in Derbyshire and Longleat House near Warminster in Wiltshire.

To book a place at the open day – on Thursday September 8 – email [email protected] or telephone 01924 305830.