A Tudor founder, blind book collector, wayward 17th century grand tourist, eccentric Victorian, Hollywood actor, commanding wives and dedicated daughters. As the home for the Isham family for over four centuries the history of Lamport Hall is full of characters. Since 1974 the Lamport Preservation Trust has ensured its survival as a centre of culture and education. This Grade I listed house contains an internationally important library, outstanding furniture, and many objects bought during the third Baronet’s Grand Tour. Ten acres of tranquil gardens and parklands provide a beautiful setting for this hidden gem, which is also the home of the world’s oldest garden gnome. The gardens are open from April and the Hall open from May until the end of October, with events throughout the year to suit many interests.
Lamport Hall is entering a new era with the launch of their new visitor welcome, gift shop and cafe, all situated in the historic surroundings of the Edwardian Stableblock. The cafe and shop will be open 10am-3pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays, April-October and are open to all - a ticket to the Hall and Gardens is not required to access either. The cafe has been sympathetically restored and maintains the original features of the stables. Sourcing from local suppliers where possible and featuring compostable disposables, the new cafe serves delicious homemade cakes, delectable cream teas, artisan coffee and light snacks. Even the counter itself is made from an old tree which fell in a storm on the estate.
The visitor welcome area is situated in the old tack room and features a collection of vintage and antique tack to ensure the original essence of the building is maintained. The shop sells wonderful gifts with a gardening, wildlife and countryside theme as well as Lamport branded products, books by local authors and a monthly Meet the Maker feature. We are delighted to be showcasing the products of Northamptonshire potter, Tarmin Pottery in May.
As in previous years, all full price tickets are upgraded for free to an annual pass meaning you only pay once and can return as many times as you like within a 12 month period. Under 11s go free and picnics are allowed on our stableyard picnic benches, making Lamport a great value day out for families.
Also new for this year are our monthly lunchtime recitals, a Northamptonshire produce picnic and the return of our Rural Life country fair.