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Seaton Delaval Hall
A place of great theatricality, drama and mischief
The Avenue, Seaton Sluice, Northumberland, NE26 4QR
Important notice
Scaffolding is currently on the exterior and interior of the Central Hall for essential windows conservation and access is limited. Please see ‘Things to Do Inside Seaton Delaval Hall’ for details of the impact to your visit. Thank you.
Opening times for 4 July 2025
Asset Opening time Central hall 11:00 - 17:00 Brewhouse Café 10:00 - 16:30 Garden 10:00 - 17:00 Stables 10:00 - 17:00 West wing 11:00 - 16:30 MTWTFSS3012345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031123OpenPartially openClosedAdmission
Ticket type With Gift Aid Without Gift Aid Adult (18+) £15.40 £14.00 Child (5-17) under 5s free £7.70 £7.00 Family (2 Adults and up to 3 children) £38.50 £35.00 Family (1 Adult and up to 3 children) £23.10 £21.00 Group (Adult 18+) £13.30 Group (Child 5-17) £6.65 Become a member and discover more than 500 places
- Bookshop
The Book Nook second hand bookshop can be found at Visitor Welcome.
- Café
Brewhouse Cafe open 10am-5pm serving a range of drinks, snacks, light meals and sweet treats. Reduced hot food 2-4:30pm. Take away and snacks only from 4:30pm.
- Car park
Car park free.
- Dogs allowed
Dogs on leads welcome are welcome in the grounds. No admission to buildings or Delaval Playdium play area (except access dogs).
- Toilet
Accessible toilets at Brewhouse Cafe and Carriage House toilets. A fully accessible Place to Change is available in the toilets next to the North West Woods near the Delaval Playdium. Family toilet available next to the North West Woods near the Delaval Playdium.
Mobility parking spaces next to admissions hut. Accessible toilet in the Brewhouse, accessible path network through the gardens.
- Accessible toilet
A fully accessible place to change is available in the toilets next to the North West Woods near the Delaval Playdium.
- Braille (guide or menu)
An introduction to the property is available in Braille.
- Designated parking
- Induction loop
- Level access to food outlet
- Level access/terrain
Level access available to Basement and ground floor of the West Wing. Accessible path network across the site.
- Photograph album
Tablet available in the West Wing.
- Powered mobility vehicle available
All terrain mobility scooters are available for hire free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis for outdoor use. They must be booked ahead of your visit by emailing us on seatondelavalhall@nationaltrust.org.uk or calling us on 0191 237 9100. Manual wheelchairs available for transfer inside the Basement and West Wing Kitchen.
- Space to Change
Space to change with adult hoist/harness in accessible toilets between West Wing and North West Woods by the Delaval Playdium.
- Stairclimber
A Stairmate Major stairclimber is available for booking for wheelchair access to the Entrance Hall. Bookings are 11:30am-12:15pm each open day and must be booked at least 48 hours ahead of your visit by emailing us on seatondelavalhall@nationaltrust.org.uk or calling 0191 237 9100 to ensure trained operator availability. Check if your chair is compatible:
Stairclimber - more information- Steps/uneven terrain
Stepped access only to Saloon, Central Hall and upper floors of the West Wing.
- Virtual tour
Virtual Visit available on link below. An introductory documentary film is also available in the West Wing Kitchen Lobby, includes exploration of upper floors with subtitles and BSL.
Virtual tour - more information- Wheelchairs available
Manual wheelchairs available for hire on a first-come, first-served basis.
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- Car-free
Travel the green way and plan your journey by train, bus, bike or foot at Good Journey.
- On foot
Network of footpaths: Seaton Sluice (¾ mile), Seaton Delaval (1 mile), Blyth and Monkseaton Wagonways(1/3 mile).
- Cycling
NCN1 Coast and Castles passes approximately 1/2 a mile away in Seaton Sluice, linking Newcastle and Edinburgh.
Local networks of cycle paths including Monkseaton Wagonways. Approx 1/4 mile from Monkseaton metro station join wagonways at the bottom of Hartley Avenue. Wagonway route is approximately 3 miles in a straight line: Continue along wagonway to join the main road at The Avenue A190 and turn right for approximately 1/3 mile until reaching the main gates.
- By bus
Arriva service X7 from Newcastle Haymarket Bus Station to Blyth every 30 minutes Monday to Saturday and hourly on Sundays, stopping at Seaton Delaval Hall (connects with services to Whitley Bay and North Tyneside). Goes via West Jesmond, South Gosforth, Longbenton, Balliol Business Park, West Moor, Burradon and Seghill.
Arriva service 308 from Haymarket Bus Station to Blyth South Beach via Coast Road, New York, Preston Grange, Whitley Bay. Stops approximately half a mile away in Seaton Sluice.
Go North East service 309 from Haymarket Bus Station to Blyth Bus Station via Coast Road, Meadow Well, North Shields, Cobalt, Rake Lane, Whitley Bay. Stops approximately half a mile away in Seaton Sluice.
Phoenix Coaches service 58 East Hartford to Hartley Square via Shankhouse, Northburn, Nelson Village, Beacon Hill, Cramlington, East Cramlington, Seaton Delaval, New Hartley and Seaton Sluice. Runs twice daily, Monday to Saturday. Stops outside main gates.- By train
West Monkseaton, Tyne & Wear Metro approximately 3 miles. Connects with Arriva bus services 308 and 309 approximately 1/2 a mile away on Whitley Bay seafront.
Northumberland Line Seaton Delaval train station now open, linking with X7 bus route. Running between Newcastle Central Station and Ashington.
Find out more about the new train line:- By ferry
North Shields Ferry Terminal 8 miles
- By road
A190 passes main gates, linking to A193 coast road at Seaton Sluice.
From south A19 from South Tyneside, Wearside and Teesside (tolls apply). Approximately 5 miles from Tyne Tunnel: Follow A19 to exit A1056 Killingworth/B1322 Seghill and follow signs for A190.
From A1 north/southbound: Exit Jct 80, follow signs for A19/A1068/B1318 Tyne Tunnel/Cramlington/Ashington/A189 Blyth/Seaton Burn. Follow signs for A189 Ashington then follow signs for A190
Parking: Visitor car park free. From main gates take left fork to visitor car park. Car park locked at 5pm.
Sat Nav: Sat Nav postcode NE26 4QR
The Avenue, Seaton Sluice, Northumberland, NE26 4QR
Planning your visit
Article
Family summer fun at Seaton Delaval Hall
Looking for family days out in Northumberland? Seaton Delaval Hall in North East England offers playful gardens, the Delaval Playdium, and creative spaces inspired by the Hall’s theatrical past—perfect for visits in June, July and August. A brilliant family-friendly destination, with plenty to explore and enjoy—plus more Summer of Play fun on the way for the summer holidays with events and activities for for kids to enjoy every day.
Article
Explore the garden at Seaton Delaval Hall
Find out what you’ll discover this spring in the varied garden at Seaton Delaval Hall, one of Northumberland's top gardens. From a Parterre to a centuries-old weeping ash and woodland waiting to be explored. Enjoy a variety of spring blooms from daffodils to the famous laburnum arch plus rhododendrons and azaleas and a rose garden in the early stages of redevelopment.
Article
Things to do inside Seaton Delaval Hall
Uncover centuries of history and the story of the flamboyant and theatrical 'gay Delavals' in architect Sir John Vanbrugh's stunning buildings at Seaton Delaval Hall. Discover the dramatic scars of the fierce fires that nearly condemned it to ruin 200 years ago and see how the creativity and mischief has returned to this country house once more.
View events at Seaton Delaval Hall
There's always something happening at Seaton Delaval Hall. See the full line up of events in Northumberland including what's on in June and July and during the summer holidays for a Summer of Play to remember.
Article
Visiting Seaton Delaval Hall with your dog
Seaton Delaval Hall is a two pawprint rated place. There’s plenty of ground for dogs to roam at Seaton Delaval Hall. Find out where you can walk your dog on the estate and the facilities available for your four-legged friends.
Article
Children, young people and learning
Explore the full range of packages available for schools, youth groups, universities and more. We offer a host of activities throughout the year to suit all areas of the curriculum from EYFS to Key Stage 4 and into FE and HE, available as self-led or facilitated visits. We also offer career development, work placements, bespoke learning packages and young people volunteering.
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Highlights
Central Hall, Saloon & Basement
One of architect Sir John Vanbrugh’s smallest country houses, the Hall was ravaged by fire 200 years ago. The remaining central block offers a unique opportunity to discover the surviving architecture. Start your journey here and discover the industries on which the Delaval family's wealth was built.
West Wing
Explore the playfully presented stories of the theatrical and mischievous Delaval family. Meet the family through the Hall's portraits and get up close with the collection in the Collections Store.
Formal Gardens
A varied garden featuring an Italianate parterre, herbaceous borders, an arboretum, a small pond and a stunning laburnum arch.
South East Gardens
The lost South East Gardens have been reimagined and feature relaxed spaces with Vanbrugh's views into the wider landscapes, a wild flower bed and playfully hidden structures for all to enjoy.
The Delaval Playdium
Inspired by the mechanics of Baroque theatre and the candle-lit shows of the gay Delavals, the Delaval Playdium play area in the North West Woods is a space to play, create and explore.
Brewhouse Café
Pick up light bites, snacks, lunches and tasty cakes and bakes in our award-winning and historic Brewhouse Café.
Community Kitchen Garden
Head down to the garden at the foot of the Walled Garden - home to Tots' Plots - to see what's in the cutting garden and the no-dig beds filled with fruit, vegetables and flowers.
Church of Our Lady
Independently managed, the beautiful 11th century church was once part of the Delavals' estate and the private family place of worship. Now the parish church, opening times vary; please check before visiting.
Things to see and do
Article
Family summer fun at Seaton Delaval Hall
Looking for family days out in Northumberland? Seaton Delaval Hall in North East England offers playful gardens, the Delaval Playdium, and creative spaces inspired by the Hall’s theatrical past—perfect for visits in June, July and August. A brilliant family-friendly destination, with plenty to explore and enjoy—plus more Summer of Play fun on the way for the summer holidays with events and activities for for kids to enjoy every day.
Article
Things to do inside Seaton Delaval Hall
Uncover centuries of history and the story of the flamboyant and theatrical 'gay Delavals' in architect Sir John Vanbrugh's stunning buildings at Seaton Delaval Hall. Discover the dramatic scars of the fierce fires that nearly condemned it to ruin 200 years ago and see how the creativity and mischief has returned to this country house once more.
Article
The North East Emerging Artist Award
Established in 2021, the award is inspired by Seaton Delaval Hall’s long-standing tradition of supporting the arts and encouraging emerging talent. It is open to artists from all artforms who are in or from the North East and aims is to showcase site-specific contemporary art in a historic context. See 2025's winners' exhibition from Jordan Edge, Phoebe Scott and Lucy Waters 6 September - 19 October this year.
Article
Explore the garden at Seaton Delaval Hall
Find out what you’ll discover this spring in the varied garden at Seaton Delaval Hall, one of Northumberland's top gardens. From a Parterre to a centuries-old weeping ash and woodland waiting to be explored. Enjoy a variety of spring blooms from daffodils to the famous laburnum arch plus rhododendrons and azaleas and a rose garden in the early stages of redevelopment.
Article
North East Blossom at Seaton Delaval Hall
Connect with nature at Seaton Delaval Hall in Northumberland this spring in the Festival of Blossom 2025.
Top trails
Trail
Holywell Dene and Old Hartley walk
An easy self-guided walk taking in the points of interest around Holywell Dene and Old Hartley, including the history of the local area and Seaton Delaval Hall.
Trail
Holywell and Sluice walk at Seaton Delaval Hall
Explore Seaton Delaval Hall's estate on a circular walk in Northumberland, and discover a Norman church, a ruined castle, a nature reserve and Sluice Harbour.
Trail
Wagonway walk at Seaton Delaval Hall
This gentle trail starts from Seaton Delaval Hall and takes in much of the wider estate, incorporating local points of interest and historical facts about the Delaval family.
Trail
Seaton Delaval Hall to Holywell village trail
This circular walk from Seaton Delaval Hall, takes in signs of an agricultural and coal mining past on the route to Holywell village, and passes through woodland along the way.
Trail
Seaton country and coast walk
Explore the villages, farmland and coast surrounding Seaton Delaval Hall and learn about a Second World War battery as well as a Victorian coal mining accident on this gentle circular trail.
Trail
Seaton Sluice and Blyth history walk
Delve into centuries of history, from invading Normans to Second World War prisoners of war, on this circular trail around Seaton Sluice and Blyth, starting from Seaton Delaval Hall.
Trail
Seaton Delaval crops and coal trail
Explore the long history of coal mining and how it impacted on local people's lives on this circular trail around the farmland and woods surrounding Seaton Delaval Hall.
Eating
Article
Eating at Seaton Delaval Hall
During your visit to Seaton Delaval Hall, stop by the Brewhouse Café. Housed in a 17th-century building, it offers a wide range of drinks and snacks, as well as indoor and outdoor seating.
Places to stay
Lighthouse Keeper's Cottage 1 at Souter Lighthouse
As part of the lighthouse, you’ll be a stone’s throw from the Sunderland coast.
Lighthouse Keeper's Cottage 2 at Souter Lighthouse
A cliff-top cottage perching in the shadows of the iconic red and white Souter Lighthouse.
Laundry Cottage at Wallington, Cambo
The perfect location for long days exploring the outdoors as well as rest and relaxation amongst nature.
Bolt Cottage at Wallington, Cambo
A cosy stone cottage in the beautiful grounds of the Wallington estate, perfect for walkers, cyclists and wildlife lovers.
Rothley Lakehouse at Wallington, Cambo
A luxury lakefront cottage that’s steeped in history and surrounded by stunning views.
Cragside Park Cottage, Rothbury
Retreat to this Arts and Crafts style house on the Cragside estate, close to the Northumberland coast.
Cragside Garden Cottage, Rothbury
A Northumberland getaway in the blossoming gardens of Cragside.
Upcoming events
Event
Tots' Plots
Join us for our free weekly drop-in gardening club for toddlers, packed full of activities whatever the weather. No need to book in advance, just turn up to enjoy our free weekly gardening session in the Community Kitchen Garden.
Event
Delaval Discoveries: Potted History Talk
Join our expert guides daily for an introduction to the gay Delavals, the most notorious of Georgian partygoers and pranksters and discover the story behind Sir John Vanbrugh's 300 year old masterpiece.
Event
Summer of Play at Seaton Delaval Hall
Find a whole lot of fun, theatricality, drama and mischief at Seaton Delaval Hall this summer. Like a party from the Delavals' Georgian heyday, expect the unexpected with pop up activities throughout from Saturday 19 July – Sunday 31 August.
Event
Summer of Play: Meet the Monster Circus and have-a-go with puppeteer, Georgia Hill
Roll up to meet the Monster Circus! Each of Georgia’s friendly monster puppet possesses the ability to perform a circus act. Your job is to become the puppeteers and bring the circus to life!
Event
Delaval Discoveries: Gardens Tour
Join us to discover how we care for this historic landscape. Explore the history of architect Sir John Vanbrugh's pleasure grounds and find out what's new and in bloom this month.
Event
Summer of Play: Young Gardeners
Get back to nature every Friday as part of Summer of Play with Young Gardeners, packed full of gardening, crafting and relaxing activities as well as plenty of nature-based stories for all the family to enjoy.
Event
Summer of Play: Let's Circus!
Let's Circus, are back for the summer! Enjoy drop-in circus skills, have a go sessions and mini shows from the region's leading circus agency.
Event
Seaton Sluice & The Links: Delaval Discoveries Wider Estate Walks
Join us for our regular wider estate walks to discover more about the Delavals and their local interests. Take in delightful views across the landscape and find out more about the area's history.
About Seaton Delaval Hall
Seaton Delaval may have been one of the architect Sir John Vanbrugh’s smallest country houses; but it was home to the larger than life Delaval family.
The house and surrounding landscape were in keeping with the style expected in Georgian society, yet behind the formality lies a story of theatricality and mischief.
Known as the ‘Gay Delavals’ due to their high spirited and flamboyant lifestyle, an invitation to one of their parties was the hottest ticket in town. In an age notorious for extremes of behaviour, they stood apart as the most notorious of all Georgian partygoers and pranksters. Imagine awaking in the house to find your room “turned upside down” with furniture fixed to the ceiling, or finding yourself in a state of undress and having the walls collapse!
Enter a world where an extraordinary lifestyle was acted out in the most colourful way. The Delavals loved a performance, staging events from rope dancers and sack races outdoors to masquerade balls and even their own theatrical productions at home and further afield, which earned rave reviews at the time.
Seaton Delaval Hall has moved from fortune to misfortune many times through the centuries and the story of its survival is as dramatic as any performance that could be staged. It still bears the scars of the fierce fires which almost condemned it to ruin two hundred years ago, but even today plays a major part in the history of the North East.
Now Seaton Delaval Hall is embarking on its encore thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund and others. Between 2019 and 2022 the Hall completed a major project titled the 'Curtain Rises', which included a full reroofing of the West Wing, replacement of six chimneys and the introduction of conservation-grade heating; critical repairs to the cantilever staircases leading from the Central Hall to the Basement; the reflooring and introduction of sympathetic lighting in the Basement; conservation of structures in the landscape including the ha-ha walls, mausoleum and walled garden walls, a contemporary reimagining of the 1781 estate plan in the landscape, incorporating the reintroduction of historic path networks and improvements to visitor facilities including a new cafe, play area, accessible entrances and toilets. In addition, the hall's collection has been re-presented to better introduce the 'gay Delavals'- and better tell their stories, bringing back the drama and flamboyance for which they were known.
History
Article
The history of Seaton Delaval Hall
Learn the story of this baroque Northumberland manor house and the individuals who shaped it, including architect Sir John Vanbrugh and the notorious 18th-century Delaval family.
Our work
Article
Our work at Seaton Delaval Hall
Find out more about the main restoration projects from the first 10 years at Seaton Delaval Hall, from restoring the weather-damaged marble floor to adding a brand new cornerstone.
Project
Project
The Curtain Rises project at Seaton Delaval Hall
Find out more about the major conservation work at Seaton Delaval Hall and discover new facilities, experiences and events thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Support us
Article
Volunteering at Seaton Delaval
Ready to help your local area and Seaton Delaval Hall? Looking after special places like Seaton Delaval Hall and making it a place that brings joy to many needs an army of people to help. Find out how you can get involved.
News
Gift in will buys new access scooter for Seaton Delaval Hall
Thanks to a gift left in a will to Seaton Delaval Hall, we've added a third all-terrain mobility scooter for visitor use. In the spring of 2024 we ran a competition to name the fleet. Found out their names!
Art and collections
Seaton Delaval Hall’s objects and collections
Explore the objects and works of art we care for at Seaton Delaval Hall on the National Trust Collections website.