Historic ‘gem’ turning the clock back to 1900

Grade I listed Sewerby Hall, near Bridlington, is undergoing a £2.6m restoration which will return the interior to how it looked over a century ago.

Last year, the first phase of the two-year East Riding Council project was completed offering visitors a chance to enjoy the newly restored Stable Block, which includes the Clock Tower Tea Rooms and The Stables gift shop.

In July, the refurbishment of the hall, often described as the jewel in the East Riding’s crown, will be completed when the interior of the 18th century house re-opens to the public.

Visitors will be able to step back in time and experience the house as it was over 100 years ago, including an Edwardian nursery with period toys and games, restored kitchen with a coal-
fired kitchen range and there 
will be piano recitals in the Orangery.

Built between 1714 and 1720 for the Greame family – who lived at Sewerby until the house was sold in 1934 – the Hall’s interiors will be refurbished with furniture from the national collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.

The project completion coincides with the 300th anniversary of the building of the house and while the hall is closed for the interior restoration, visitors can still enjoy the 50-acre site, which includes the Pleasure and Walled gardens, the Woodland Walk and Sewerby Zoo.

The zoo has a variety of animals, including pygmy goats and llamas, an aviary and a colony of Humboldt penguins. The restoration was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and the council.