Washington Old Hall

Heritage Site in Durham

England

Washington Old Hall

Washington Car Park The view of the Galleries Shopping Centre in Washington. — Washington Car Park Credit: Gordon Griffiths

Washington Old Hall is a historic house located in Washington Village, County Durham, England. It is a well-preserved and significant heritage site that holds great historical and cultural importance. The hall dates back to the 12th century and is closely associated with the Washington family, ancestors of George Washington, the first President of the United States.

The building itself is a fine example of medieval architecture, featuring a mixture of Tudor and Georgian additions. It is constructed of local stone and has a distinctive black and white exterior. The interior has been carefully restored to reflect different periods of its history, with original features such as oak paneling and fireplaces.

Visitors to Washington Old Hall can explore the various rooms and learn about the history of the Washington family. The Great Hall, with its impressive timber ceiling, is particularly noteworthy. The hall also houses a collection of Washington family memorabilia, including a letter from George Washington himself.

The surrounding gardens and grounds are beautifully landscaped, providing a tranquil space to relax and enjoy the outdoors. There is a knot garden, a herb garden, and a peaceful orchard.

Throughout the year, Washington Old Hall hosts a range of events and activities, including guided tours, exhibitions, and educational programs. It offers an immersive experience into the history and heritage of the Washington family, making it a popular destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in genealogy.

In summary, Washington Old Hall is a remarkable heritage site that showcases the rich history and ancestral connections of the Washington family. Its architectural beauty, historical significance, and serene surroundings make it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Washington Old Hall Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.902/-1.516 or Grid Reference NZ3156. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Washington Car Park

The view of the Galleries Shopping Centre in Washington.

Gordon Griffiths

Washington from the air

The Nissan car factory dominates the scene. Taken at around 37,000 feet by mobile phone, from a Prague bound flight from Edinburgh.

Thomas Nugent

Colourful Memorial, Washington

Traditional poppy wreaths and very healthy geraniums round the war memorial in the centre of Washington Village.

Des Blenkinsopp

The Washington Arms

Two versions of that title here. The Old Hall in Washington Village was the medieval home of the Washington family, US President George Washington's ancestors. Much is made of that connection, including a theory that the Washington crest, seen here on railings on the village green, influenced the design of the American flag. It's also a good name for a pub.

Des Blenkinsopp

Sundial over the Gate

In the garden at Washington Old Hall. A sundial site which looks a bit odd, if not actually unsafe. I guess it's OK. Just don't slam the gate.

Des Blenkinsopp

Washington Village Green

Des Blenkinsopp

Apples at the Old Hall

In the garden at Washington Old Hall.

Des Blenkinsopp

Washington Village Centre

Over the road from the very well tended and floral village green are some more flower beds. Even the phone box has a garden on the roof.

Des Blenkinsopp

Footbridge across River Wear at Cox Green

David Robinson

Factories on Mandarin Way

Part of Pattinson Industrial Estate, on the east side of Washington. Built on former farmland in the late 20th century.

Robert Graham

Waterview Park offices

This large office block is occupied by HM Revenue and Customs with over 2000 staff based here. It is on Mandarin Way on the eastern edge of Washington.

Robert Graham

Old farm buildings at Middle Barmston

Middle Barmston farm is an old Victorian farmstead which is now used by Washington Wetland Centre. No longer a working farm, these outbuildings would originally have been stables and cattle byres.

Robert Graham

Top of Barmston Lane

At the junction with Madarin Way. The lane leads past Middle Barmston Farm here and down to the Washington Wetland Centre.

Robert Graham

Former farmhouse

The mid 19th century farmhouse at Middle Barmston. No longer used as such.

Robert Graham

Weardale Way heading towards Low Lambton and Cox Green

The long distance footpath in woodland beside the River Wear

Chris Heaton

Footbridge across the River Wear at Cox Green

Passing this structure on the Weardale Way - but not crossing it. The footbridge replaced a ferry in 1958, which consisted of a solitary rowing boat.

Chris Heaton

Barmston Ferry

A rowing boat used to cross the River Wear at this point, until the footbridge was opened in 1958. The scene photographed on the Weardale Way in Cox Green, upon the opposite bank.

Chris Heaton