17th Century Driffield Manor House to Open to the Public for One Day

Sunday, 2 March 2025 06:00

By Matthew Pells

Residents will have the opportunity to visit the ruins of a 17th Century listed East Yorkshire manor house when Elmswell Old Hall opens to the public for one day.

Between 10.30am and 3.30pm on Tuesday, 1 April 2025, people will be able to visit the ruins. Building consent for the property mandates access to the site for the public, for one day a year.

The ruins are part of the historically significant Elmswell country estate situated off the A166 near Driffield.

Parts of the estate can be directly traced back to William the Conqueror, and the Manor House was built by the owner Henry Best around 1634.

The old hall was thought to be one of the first brick buildings in East Yorkshire and in 1998, English Heritage changed its status from Grade II to Grade II*, meaning it is officially “of more than special interest”. Only around 5% of the country’s listed buildings fall into this category.

Road signs will be displayed with directions to the site and parking will be available. Access to the site from the car park is via a narrow, rutted track and could be unsuitable for people with mobility issues. Dogs will not be allowed on the site.

Councillor Barbara Jefferson, East Riding of Yorkshire council cabinet member for Heritage and Coastal said

“This is a rare opportunity for residents and visitors to see one of East Yorkshire’s hidden gems. I recommend residents to find out more about their local history at the open day this year.”

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