A manor house in Astley dating to the 16th century
If you have an interest in historic houses in the North West, or are intrigued by local history, then this historic 16th century manor house is a must.
Damhouse was constructed under the commission of Adam Mort, to whom the Morts Astley Heritage Trust owe their name, who also established a school and chapel (St Stephens) for the local community.
Damhouse’s construction has been dated to 1595 by the Greater Manchester Archaeological Unit, with an extension built by Mort’s son, also called Adam, in 1650.
Damhouse was then sold to the Leigh Hospital Board in 1893 and used as an isolation hospital. In 1948 a general hospital was established, until its closure in 1994.
The Trust’s involvement
In 1999, and after six years of campaigning and fundraising by ten local residents, the Morts Astley Heritage Trust was formed.
Funding was agreed by the Heritage Lottery Fund and the European Regional Development Fund (Rechar II) to purchase and refurbish the former Astley hospital administration building known as Damhouse (a grade II* listed building), the villa and 17 acres of surrounding woodlands (designated a site of scientific and biological importance) containing a pond.
Damhouse today
Today Damhouse is still as grand and entrancing as the day it was completed, only now it boast a whole host of ‘mod cons’ and attractions, including a conserved ancient woodland, lake and event facilities.
After you have taken in the scenery, you can visit The Tea Room at Damhouse, which offers a range of tasty light bites and teas, as well as free wi-fiStatistics: Posted by Misspears — 12 Sep 2014, 15:02
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