Restored substantially in 1565, Hoghton Tower dates from the time of the Norman Conquest.

From every corner the Tower bears evidence of the passing of history – bolt holes for Catholic priests under the reign of Elizabeth I, the destruction of the Great Keep by an explosion during the English Civil War, and an impressive roll call of guests from James I to John Wesley, William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, George V and Prince Philip. Indeed it was at Hoghton Tower that King James I knighted the loin of beef which we now know as ‘Sir Loin’.

Today Hoghton Tower Preservation Trust is dedicated to maintaining and restoring the fabric of the Tower, its grounds and outbuildings and to sharing the beauty and history of the site with the public through a variety of activities. These include public, private and school tours, concerts, theatre productions, afternoon tea with bestselling authors, ghost tours, falconry displays, classic car shows, corporate events, film shoots and weddings – something for all ages and interests.

The Trust employs a small number of staff in administrative, maintenance and events roles. However, it is the army of volunteers whose generosity and dedication ensure a steady influx of visitors throughout the year.

In addition to funding the substantial maintenance required for such a property (roof repairs this year are expected to total around £50,000), the Trust seeks income to restore outbuildings such as the Coach House and Stables to develop plans for a new Visitor Centre. The Old Barn is already a work in progress and plays host to the monthly Merchant of Hoghton farmers market – the largest market of its kind in Lancashire.

All of these activities underline the Trust’s overarching aim: to restore and preserve the Tower as a building of historic interest for the benefit of the community at large and the advancement of public education.

All donations received will be channelled towards furthering this aim and preserving this majestic part of English history.

Thank you for taking the time to read about Hoghton Tower and the work of the Preservation Trust. For more information, please visit our website at www.hoghtontower.co.uk.