Visitor information

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Notice: Due to strong winds, we will be closed to the public this morning (Friday 24th May). We will review this at lunchtime. Apologies for any inconvenience

More than a great house, it is a truly amazing place.

Seaton Delaval Hall is a great house set in its own estate with lovely gardens and a fine collection; yet it is also much more.

It is a signpost pointing to the diverse history of a family which acquired land here in the late 11th century. The house occupies the site of a Norman settlement, and its original Norman chapel remains in use today.

Built between 1719 and 1730 for Admiral George Delaval, it is not only the finest house in the north east of England, but also among the finest works of its architect, Sir John Vanbrugh, one of the masters of English Baroque.

For 900 years, the estate has been a stage for drama, intrigue and romance while the surrounding landscape has fuelled industrial revolution. The house has survived terrible fires, military occupation and potential ruin. Now it provides an amazing space for arts, heritage and the community to come together.

Good news - the hall is now open

The old damaged timbers are removed before the new roof is installed

The old damaged timbers are removed before the new roof is installed

For the past three months, we have been closed while contractors have been busy re-roofing the East Wing and re-wiring the site. Although work on these major projects is still progressing and most of our buildings will remain closed for a little while longer, visitors can now come and enjoy our outdoor spaces, which includes the gardens and woodland play area, as well as our temporary cafe.

As the work progresses over the next few weeks, more of the property will be opened up to visitors - we'll keep you updated on this. We hope the work will be completed by June/July, and there will be so much more to see as we plan to have a lot more of the collection on display and of course the East Wing will be open for the very first time.

In the meantime, why don't you come along for the unique opportunity to see conservation in action at a National Trust property?

A piece of Civil War history

Parchment note attached to the buff coat

When the West Wing re-opens to the public, there will be a fascinating piece of Civil War history on display. The buff coat was worn by Jacob Astley, Lord Astley of Reading, under his armour as he lead the royalist troops into battle.

50 things to do before you’re 11¾

50 Things To Do

An outdoor adventure is waiting for you at Seaton Delaval Hall. Take a look inside a tree or see how high the sea breeze will carry your kite. Ask the team at reception for more info when you arrive.

Check the weather

Join our team

Seaton Delaval Hall is a fabulous place to work

Do you have a smile for everyone, enjoy meeting people of all ages, and have customer service experience? Then we'd like you to join our visitor welcome team.