Speke Hall

Speke Hall is a Grade I listed house built for the Norris family, with its south range constructed between 1490 and 1506, east and west ranges added around 1540 to 1560, and the north range completed in 1598. The building features a timber frame set on a stone base, with stone lateral stacks and a stone slate roof. It has two storeys and an attic, arranged around a courtyard plan. Architectural details include a coved cornice, gables, and projecting bays with gables. The windows are composed of five and six lights with transoms and leaded glazing. The entrance to the north range is marked by a stone four-centred arch and paired studded doors, with flanking stone walls that have parapets and round projections, connecting to a bridge over the moat. An inscription above the entrance notes the construction of this range. Inside, the great hall features two bay windows, a stone ornamental fireplace, and panelling. The billiard room to the west includes panelling, an elaborate timber overmantel, and a rich plaster ceiling. The corridor is decorated with wallpaper designed by William Morris. Speke Hall is recognized as one of the most important timber-framed manor houses in the country and has connections with the artist James McNeill Whistler. For a more detailed description, refer to Pevsner's "Buildings of England, South Lancashire" and articles in "Country Life."