Turton Tower

Turton Tower is a distinctive English country house located in the small village of Turton on the edge of the popular walking area of the West Pennine Moors. Originally built by the Tudor Orrell family to defend their land, it later became a luxurious home. The house was lavishly furnished and extended in both the Tudor and early Stuart periods.

After falling into decline during the Georgian era, the house was rescued by the Kay family who restored and extended the house, taking it into the Victorian period. The Kays departed in the 1890s and, after occupation by several more tenants, the property was purchased by Sir Lees Knowles and used as a hunting lodge and weekend retreat. On his death in 1929 Lady Nina Knowles, his widow, gave the tower and grounds to Turton Urban District Council to use for the benefit of the public. Since then the tower has been used as council offices and since 1974 as a museum and historic house.

Today the house still captures the spirit of the Tudor and Victorian ages and displays one of the finest collections of period furniture and paintings in the region. 

The Woodland Cafe is located in what was once the kitchen at Turton Tower.  The location of the kitchen remained unchanged for over 500 years.

You can now enjoy morning coffee, light lunch or afternoon tea in the former Victorian kitchen.  

In the summer you can eat on the garden terrace overlooking the Victorian tennis courts; whilst your children play on the Adventure Playground

The tea room is open 7 days a week from 11am -6pm. Please note that the Woodland Cafe is currently open for takeaway drinks & sandwiches, cakes & snacks only. 

Turton Tower Opening Times

2020

Please note that currently there is no public access into Turton Tower due to Coronavirus.

The gardens & tea rooms are open 7 days a week and the gift shop is open Saturdays & Sundays 12 - 4pm

For more information on visiting Turton Tower click here.