Alkrington Hall

Alkrington Hall in Rochdale, in the Alkrington district of Middleton, Greater Manchester, is an early Georgian country house that carries a high level of heritage protection. It is now a private residence, so you cannot go inside, but the building and its wooded surroundings can be admired from outside.

What is Alkrington Hall?

The house was built in 1735–36 for Darcy Lever and is attributed to Giacomo Leoni, an Italian-born architect who worked in England and was known for Palladian-inspired designs. Historic England lists it at Grade II* (list entry 1068499, first listed in 1957). That grade is reserved for particularly important buildings, a small share of all listed structures in England. The remains of an earlier hall can also be traced on the estate.

Who lived here?

Alkrington is linked to Sir Ashton Lever, a collector of natural curiosities. His collection, later known as the Leverian Museum, was displayed at the hall before he moved it to London. The estate then passed through several owners, including the Lees family.

Can you visit the interior?

No. The property has been divided into private homes (sources describe flats or a few high-end residences), so there are no tickets or opening hours. Please respect residents' privacy and view the house from public roads.

How do you get there?

The hall stands on Alkrington Hall Road North, roughly 8 km north of Manchester city centre and a few kilometres south-west of Rochdale. By car it takes about 20–25 minutes from central Manchester. Middleton offers the nearest shops and cafes.

What else is nearby?

Alkrington Woods, next to the hall, is a designated Local Nature Reserve with woodland paths for an easy walk. The separately listed Home Farm Dairy (Grade II), a former estate farm building, stands close by. The nearby Alkrington Garden Village is a planned 20th-century suburb.

When is the best time to go?

A walk around the hall and through the woods is most pleasant from late spring to summer, when the trees are in leaf. Autumn brings colour, though paths can be muddy after rain.

Frequently asked questions

Is Alkrington Hall open to the public?

No. It is a private residential building and can only be viewed from the outside.

Who designed Alkrington Hall?

Historic England's entry names Giacomo Leoni as the architect and Darcy Lever as the client.

What heritage status does it have?

Grade II*, the second of England's three listing grades, given to buildings of more than special interest. The list entry number is 1068499.

What can I combine with a visit?

A stroll through Alkrington Woods, plus time in Middleton town centre or in Manchester, which is close by.