Norton Conyers in Ripon

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Wath
Near Ripon
HG4 5EQ
Tel: 01765 640333
Fax: 01765 640333

norton.conyers@bronco.co.uk

This charming house has belonged to the Graham family since 1624, and is now the home of Sir James and Lady Graham. Of medieval origins, it was altered in Tudor and Stuart times and again in the 18th and 19th centuries. The interior with its furniture and a notable collection of family portraits reflects 384 years of occupation by the same family.

Charlotte Bronte memorably paid a visit in 1839. A legend that a mad woman had at some time in the previous century been confined in the attics is said to have been her inspiration for the mad Mrs Rochester in "Jane Eyre", and Norton Conyers gave her many ideas for Thornfield Hall. The discovery in 2004 of a blocked staircase, clearly described in "Jane Eyre", connecting the first floor with the attics, aroused world-wide interest. Other notable visitors were Charles I in 1633 and James II and his wife in 1679 (the room and the bed they traditionally used are on display).

The house is set in a fine park. The large 18th century walled garden, five minutes' walk from the house, has a central Orangery approached by a path flanked with herbaceous borders and yew hedges. A small sales area specialises in unusual hardy plants, and there is pick-your-own fruit in season (please check beforehand).

Opening Times 2007: House and Garden

House: The house is closed for major structural repairs. Garden is open August Bank Holiday Sunday and Monday (24-25 August); Sundays and Mondays 8 June - 11 August; and daily 2-5 July.

Garden Times: 2.00 - 5.00pm. Last admissions 4.40pm.

Groups by arrangement.

Dogs must be on a lead in the garden and the grounds.

Disabled Access - Garden's main path is gravelled, and runs up a slight slope. All other areas are suitable for disabled access.

Directions Norton Conyers is 4 miles north of Ripon on the road to Wath, and 3.5 miles from the A1; turn off at the Baldersby flyover onto the A61 to Ripon and turn right at the road signposted Melmerby.

Entry to the garden is free except for the following charity openings, when an entrance charge is made and teas are available. 8 June - Amnesty International
15 June - National Gardens Scheme
22 June - Cancer Research UK
13 July - BritishRed Cross
20 July - Muscular Dystrophy Campaign
27 July - St John's Ambulance

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