About Bagdale Hall
The History
of Bagdale Hall
Bagdale Hall was built in 1516 for the Conyers, who were at the time one of the most important families in Whitby. The hall was described at the time as being surrounded by green fields. It was partly bordered on one side by Bagdale Beck. The hall grounds extended up river as far as the current high-level bridge.
Come and stay in one of Whitby’s most historic buildings. Experience the rich history and charm for yourself.
A Grand House
in Historic Whitby
In 1643 Captain Bushell served under his uncle Sir Hugh Cholmley defending Scarborough for Parliament. After Cholmley had surrendered to the Royalists, Bushell retook the castle, only later to hand it back to the royal forces. This act resulted in his being arrested by his father-in-law, imprisonment for three years and finally, after trial by the House of Commons his execution in 1651.
Bagdale Hall was then sold to Isaac Newton, a Whitby merchant, who was believed to have been related to Sir Isaac Newton. The House remained in the family for over a hundred years.
When Henry Power, a famous ophthalmic surgeon, acquired it in 1882 the house required major restoration, which took two years to complete. During this time Dr Power had parts of the house embellished, including the original fireplaces, which he decorated with Delft tiles and added carved wooden over-mantles and surrounds. These magnificent fireplaces still enhance several of the rooms.
Bagdale Hall in the
Early 20th Century
By the turn of the 20th century, Bagdale Hall had already established itself as a significant historical structure. It was originally built in 1516 by Sir William Cholmley, a local nobleman.
During the early 1900s, the Hall was primarily a private residence, but its status as a notable historical building began to attract attention from preservationists and historians.
In the 1920s and 1930s, the Hall remained a private home but started to receive more recognition for its historical value. The architecture, which includes features typical of Tudor-style buildings such as stone mullion windows, heavy oak beams, and a distinctive roofline, was preserved carefully by its owners.
Mid-20th Century
Post-World War II, the Hall transitioned from a private residence to commercial use. Around the 1950s and 1960s, Bagdale Hall began operating as a guest house, capitalizing on Whitby’s growing popularity as a tourist destination. During this time, the building underwent some restoration work to ensure it was suitable for guests while maintaining its historical charm.
The 1970s saw an increase in efforts to preserve historical buildings across the UK, and Bagdale Hall benefitted from these movements. It became a Grade II listed building, a designation that helped protect its architectural and historical integrity.
Recent History
Late 20th Century to Present
In the 1980s and 1990s, Bagdale Hall continued to operate as a hotel, gaining a reputation for offering a unique historical experience. Guests were drawn to its authentic period features, including the oak-paneled walls, grand fireplaces, and original stonework. The management of the Hall focused on balancing modern hospitality needs with the preservation of its historical aspects.
Entering the 21st century, Bagdale Hall underwent further restoration and renovation to improve facilities while maintaining its historical essence. The hotel expanded slightly by incorporating neighboring buildings, such as Lobster Hall and Crab Hall, to offer a wider variety of accommodation to guests.
A Historic Hotel
Today, Bagdale Hall operates as a popular hotel, offering visitors a unique opportunity to stay in a building with over 500 years of history. The Hall continues to be a key part of Whitby’s heritage, attracting tourists who are interested in experiencing the ambiance of Tudor England within the context of modern comfort. The building’s status as a Grade II listed property ensures that it remains protected for future generations to appreciate.
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