Hoghton Tower has released its calendar of events for 2024.
Visitors can explore the ancient Tower and discover secret passages, priest holes, mysterious wells and deep, dark dungeons, as guides re-tell tales of the tower’s illustrious visitors – from King James I to Shakespeare and Charles Dickens.
Outside the Elizabethan house can be found walled gardens, ancient woodland, and views across miles of Lancashire countryside.
Steeped in history, the Tower has had a starring role in many film and TV productions, including Sherlock Holmes and Peaky Blinders.
Hoghton Tower’s events include ghost tours, seasonal trails and farmers’ markets. The tearoom is open during all events and activities.
Several events have already been confirmed and are listed below, with more to follow. Keep an eye on the Hoghton Tower website and Hoghton Tower Facebook page for new announcements and tickets.
Historic Graffiti and Superstitious Beliefs Tour – Saturday 17 February and Saturday 16 March
Transport yourself back more than 400 years to a time when King James I held firm beliefs about and against witches and witchcraft.
Your guide will give you an insight into the king’s fascination with witchcraft and describe the various forms of historic graffiti recently discovered at Hoghton Tower. You will see the symbols, marks and taper burns that the family and servants used to protect themselves from natural and supernatural forces.
Further dates will be added throughout the year.
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Opera Dinner – Friday 19 April
Step into the magnificent Banqueting Hall and be transported to a realm where troubles melt away and the magic of opera takes centre stage.
The title – Vissi d’arte, Vissi d’amore – captures the essence of this event: live, love, and immerse yourself in pure artistic brilliance.
Motorcycle Sprint – Sunday 5 May
One of the classic and longest standing motorcycle events in Lancashire returns, raising funds for the Hoghton Tower Preservation Trust, which runs, maintains and restores the property.
Experience the excitement as bikes of all classes take on the challenge of the spectacular driveway at Hoghton Tower against the clock in the 47th Annual Motorcycle Sprint.
Supercar Showtime – Sunday 2 June
Supercar enthusiasts from across the North West descend on Hoghton Tower in an exclusive event for all the family to enjoy.
Returning once again, this popular event aims to build on the success of its five previous dates raising much needed funds for Derian House Children’s Hospice in Chorley.
Classic and Performance Motor Show – Sunday 30 June
Organised by Great British Motor Shows and featuring classic cars, club stands, motorcycles, light commercials, ex-army and classic 4×4s.
Trade stands, an autojumble and show arena will be on display on the event field plus the Tilting Green and Tower courtyard.
Farmers’ Markets
The third Sunday of every month – with the next one on 18 February – this market celebrates local producers, traders and craftspeople.
The market features a delicious range of Lancastrian fresh food from traditional pies and cheese, to fresh meat and fish and a mouthwatering selection of confectionery.
Afternoon Tea
Visitors can pre-book afternoon tea as part of a trip to the Tower and Gardens or as a standalone treat, from £21. Check availability on the website.
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