Norbury Old Manor near Ashbourne in England is a 14th century medieval home which is rich in original features. Many of these have survived because a new hall was added on to the front when the Fitzherbert family needed more space and a home befitting of their status. When you arrive at the site, your eye is drawn to the huge red-brick farmhouse, but the old hall is hidden away behind it.
The main house is operated as holiday accommodation, but the small doorway to the right of it is the entrance to the stone-built Old Hall. Once inside you are transported back in time! So much of this property has not changed for centuries. Look out for the ancient doorways, the, fireplaces and the basic kitchen. The manor was badly damaged by Parliamentary forces during the English Civil War, but was restored in around 1680.
The Old Hall is small and will only take you a few minutes to explore, but there’s more to enjoy outside. There is a small medieval garden at the rear of the hall and then wider landscaped gardens to see. The church next door is often open to the public too and is well worth visiting.
As a small National Trust property, the Old Hall has limited opening. It’s usually open on Thursdays from the first Thursday in May until the last Thursday in September. Adult admission is £8 (2025 prices) but the property is free to visit for National Trust members.
LOCATION & CONTACT
Address: The Old Manor, Norbury, Ashbourne, Derbyshire, DE6 2ED
Phone: +44 1283585337
Email: oldmanor@nationaltrust.org.uk
MORE ON THE OLD MANOR
The Old Manor – National Trust
Stay in Ashbourne – Booking.com