Rydal Hall

• 1: Rydal Hall
  • 1.1: Information
  • 1.2: Tariff
  • 1.3: Enquiry
  • 1.4: Booking Forms
• 2: Home
• 3: About
  • 3.1: History of Rydal Hall
  • 3.2: Who's Who ?
  • 3.3: How To Find Us
  • 3.4: Contact Us
• 4: Youth Centre
  • 4.1: Information
  • 4.2: Tariff
  • 4.3: Enquiry
• 5: Camping
  • 5.1: Information
  • 5.2: Tariff
• 6: Bulley Barn
  • 6.1: Information
  • 6.2: Tariff
  • 6.3: Enquiry
• 7: Holiday Cottage
  • 7.1: Information
  • 7.2: Tariff
  • 7.3: Enquiry
• 8: Gardens
  • 8.1: Restoration Story
  • 8.2: Garden Tours
  • 8.3: Further Information
• 9: Chapel Services
• 10: Tea Shop

History of Rydal Hall

In 1970, the Diocese of Carlisle was fortunate to be able to buy Rydal Hall from the Le Fleming family to run as a retreat house. The Fleming family had been associated with Rydal since 1409, when they acquired the manor by marriage. The Flemings leased the house on the present site in 1576, came to live here around that time and later bought the house. From that time the family developed their property and estates, with Rydal Hall as their principal seat, until the mid 20th century.

The Fleming family can be tracked back to Flanders in 864, and indeed, records suggest that Michael le Fleming was related to William, Duke of Normandy, and was given lands in Cumberland in return for his support at time of the Northern Conquest.

Today Rydal Estates remain in Le Fleming ownership and the baronetcy has been inherited by the New Zealand branch of the family.

The history of the Fleming family is described in the extensively illustrated book 'The Fleming Family of Rydal Hall'. The great characters are described in their social and political contexts, and many frequently asked questions are solved as the development of Rydal Hall, as we know it today, is revealed.

The book will be of interest to many who are aware of the richness of the Hall's history and is available to purchase from Rydal Hall. Please contact the Rydal Hall Office to order your copy.