Staunton Harold Hall was brought back into the estate in 2003, after nearly fifty years of institutional use. At some thirty two thousand square feet I think it may be the largest private house in Leicestershire; at any rate it's pretty big, and we have converted the West Wing into managed offices and conference facilites. The fine suite of State Rooms are available for functions, including weddings, and for visits by organised groups.
The church in front of the Hall is in the care of the National Trust, as are the Golden Gates(pictured below). Access to the church is by paths marked on two plans posted in the grounds. Opening times are on a board outside the church wall.
The Ferrers Centre, housed in the former stable block, is now the home to the largest community of cratfspeople and artists working under one roof anywhere in Britain. It is also a 'gateway' to the National Forest with information boards and leaflets. Seven footpaths lead out from the hamlet of Staunton Harold, some of them permissive paths which we have created ourselves. With free parking, tea rooms, the Ferrers Centre and a garden centre, it is a good place from which to start your walk.
Since we came to live at the Hall in 2003, I have posted a periodic bulletin in the two notice boards alongside the plan. It is idiosyncratic rather than exhaustive; if you want the fuller picture you must come and see us.
John Blunt
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