NEAR RICHMOND - 50 MINS FROM PATELEY BRIDGE
Kiplin Hall
& Gardens
A beautiful Jacobean country house set in 35 acres of lakeside grounds near Richmond, North Yorkshire. Built by the founder of Maryland, lived in by four families over four centuries, and now cared for by a charitable trust. One of the quieter and more personal of North Yorkshire's country house visits.
Visit information
- Address
- Kiplin Hall, near Scorton, Richmond DL10 6AT
- From Pateley Bridge
- Approx 50 minutes via Masham or Bedale
- Open
- April to October - check kiplinhall.co.uk for days and hours. Closed in winter.
- Gardens
- Open on house opening days. 35 acres of grounds including a lake.
- Dogs
- Dogs welcome in the grounds and gardens on leads. Not permitted in the house.
- Website
- www.kiplinhall.co.uk
THE MARYLAND CONNECTION
Where American history begins
Kiplin Hall was built by George Calvert, 1st Baron Baltimore, who served as Secretary of State under James I. After his death in 1632, his sons Cecil and Leonard founded the colony of Maryland on the American eastern seaboard, naming it in honour of Queen Henrietta Maria.
Kiplin Hall therefore has a genuine connection to American colonial history. The hall sits quietly in the North Yorkshire countryside, a long way from its American legacy, but visitors with an interest in history find this connection adds a particular layer to the visit.
What to see
The Hall
Built in the 1620s by George Calvert, 1st Baron Baltimore - the founder of the state of Maryland in North America. The house passed through several families before becoming a charity-run heritage property. The interior reflects four centuries of occupation and change rather than a single period of restoration.
The Lake
The centrepiece of the grounds. A wide ornamental lake sits below the south front of the hall, with walks around its perimeter that offer changing views back to the house and across the surrounding parkland. Dragonflies, water birds and reflections of the sky make this one of the loveliest corners of the grounds.
The Victorian Croquet Lawn
A beautifully maintained croquet lawn on the west side of the house. In summer, croquet equipment is available for visitors. The Victorian walled garden beyond the lawn is an ongoing restoration project.
The Walled Garden
A substantial walled kitchen garden that is being gradually restored. Work has uncovered original paths, borders and orchard areas. A good example of a working heritage restoration in progress rather than a finished showcase.
The Croquet Lawn and Rose Garden
A formal garden with roses and perennial planting along the main approach to the house. At its best in June and July for the rose season.
When to visit
Spring
The grounds come alive in April and May. Bulbs and blossom around the lake, the first growth in the walled garden. Quieter than summer and the light across the water is particularly good in the morning.
Early summer (June)
The rose garden and rose borders are at their best. The walled garden is in full swing. This is generally the most recommended time for a garden visit.
Late summer
The lake reflections are clearest on still August mornings. The parkland grass has its summer colour and the views from the lake walk are excellent.
Autumn
The trees around the lake colour beautifully in October. Quieter and very atmospheric. Last chance to visit before the house closes for winter.
Plan your visit
Kiplin Hall is around 50 minutes from Pateley Bridge via Masham. Combine with a stop in Richmond - one of the finest market towns in North Yorkshire - for a full day out. Richmond Castle and its riverside walks make an excellent complement.