Here are 10 facts about Seaton Delaval Hall that help make it a really remarkable place!

1) The site (which includes an agricultural and industrial estate) has been owned by the Delaval-Hastings family since the Norman Conquest around 1080 - about the same time the New Castle was built to help defend England from the Scots.

2) The estate's location in the coal fields of Northumberland led to industrial growth in the area. Because of the coal, iron workings, salt pans and glassworks were all developed - which arguably also influenced the area's breweries.

3) The house was built to the specifications of the renowned Baroque architect Sir John Vanbrugh, and is largely regarded as his most impressive work - English Baroque at its finest!

4) The 18th century Delaval family were quite characterful - known for their wild and generous entertaining, practical jokes and amateur dramatics (they once hired the Drury Lane Theatre to stage a private performance of Othello!).

5) There is a stone mausoleum in the grounds, erected in honour of John Delaval - who died in 1775 as a result of a fatal kick from a maid in a 'vital organ'.

6) In 1822, the Hall was badly damaged by fire. When the fire broke out, most of the community banded together in an effort to save the building. Despite the fire damage, the exterior of the Great Hall is still extraordinary. The interior boasts examples of Vanbrugh's brilliance - including fireplaces, sculptures, striking stonework and a spiral staircase.

7) The Hall was further damaged during the Great War, and between 1939 and 1948 it was used to house prisoners of war.

8) The recent heroes of Seaton Delaval Hall were the late Lord and Lady Hastings, who ensured the survival of the house. With the help of grants, they managed to repair many of the buildings - including one of the finest stables in the country. They also restored the gardens while retaining the farmland. A home was created in the former kitchen wing and the collections re-assembled.

9) The Hastings were determined that the place should be shared - and since 1950, the house and garden have been open to visitors for a couple of days a week, during the summer.

10) We need to know what you think. Seaton Delaval Hall sees the launch of our biggest ever public consultation. We can only acquire it if we can prove that the local community and nation want it. So let us know what you think by emailing seatondelavalhall@nationaltrust.org.uk