Sheffield Manor Lodge – Private Group Tours
Let our local history experts take you on an exclusive walk through the history of Sheffield Manor Lodge from the 12th century to the present day. The story includes Cardinal Wolsey’s final days, Mary Queen of Scots’ 14 years of captivity, and the relationship of Bess of Hardwick and George Talbot. This is a wonderful way to explore one of Sheffield’s most fascinating historical sites.
What to expect
Visit the Turret House, the only roofed building still standing in England that Mary Queen of Scots’ would have known, and see the original plaster ceiling she possibly helped design. Meet Bess of Hardwick and hear how she came to live in Sheffield and became the captor of the infamous Scottish Queen.
You’ll discover the story of a changing landscape that adapted over the centuries to host farming and mining communities. You’ll discover how the interwar estates developed around the Manor Lodge, hear of its last resident in the 1960s and how it has regenerated into a meadow-filled visitor destination.
On the tour, you will also visit our garderobe, apothecary garden and lavender labyrinth.
A spot of lunch
The Rhubarb Shed Cafe can provide a buffet lunch in the Discovery Centre looking out over the Tudor grounds. Alternatively, you can book a table in the cafe itself (Wednesday to Sunday), located just down the hill on our Manor Oaks site, for a full lunch menu.
Tour options
Tier 1 – Tour Only (£8pp)
1.5-hour guided tour including the Turret House, historic buildings and ruins. Toilets and parking included. Discovery Centre/private site hire excluded.
(Our suggested tour times are 10:30am–12pm and 12:30pm–2pm for a morning or afternoon slot).
Tier 2 – Tour & Private Hire (£15pp)
1.5-hour guided tour plus private use of the Discovery Centre and historic site (total time on site: 3 hours).
Many recent bookings have chosen Tier 2, as it allows time for the tour, exploring the site and use of the Discovery Centre as a warm/dry space for lunch.
(Our suggested tour and private hire time is 10am–1pm to include the lunch period).
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer bespoke tour and private hire options. Please watch this space as we are currently developing our visitor and hire offer. We look forward to sharing more information soon. Thank you.
Catering (Tier 2 only):
• You may arrange your own catering or bring packed lunches.
• If you would like to arrange Rhubarb Shed Café catering, please get in touch directly on 07375 366 429. A lunch buffet can be provided for £9pp (add £1pp for dietary requirements such as vegan/free-from).
• Please include your arranged lunch time on your booking form.
• Payment must be received no later than 48 hours before your visit.
Key terms:
• Changes or cancellations can be made free of charge up to one month before the tour date, subject to agreement.
• The minimum charge is equivalent to 12 people.
• The maximum group size per tour is 25 people.
• Additional attendees (not exceeding max. 25) can be paid by invoice or on the day at the till (card preferred; cash accepted).
If you would like to book a private tour or have any queries, please email [email protected] or call 0114 276 2828.
Gallery
Image copyright: All copyright & courtesy of The Green Estate, unless stated.