SION HILL HALL - VISIT HERALDED OUR SUMMER BREAK

Well placed between the two heat waves, Hambleton Arts Society’s second post covid visit was to this magnificent local historic House.  The original building dated back to the thirteenth century as Kirby Wiske Manor house. This was pulled down and completely rebuilt in 1913 as the last of the big houses in Yorkshire, before the Great Decline. It was bought by wealthy businessman, Herbert William Mawer in 1962, who exquisitely decorated the interior and over 20 years acquired its inventory of stunning fine art and furniture. He formed a Trust which today looks after the property and organises tours and events.

The first heatwave behind us we could comfortably continue with our visit. On approaching though a long sweeping driveway through parkland, this elegant house came into view surrounded by its immaculate gardens. Trust Chairman, Michael Mallaby greeted our group outside the entrance to the Hall, where he gave much background information. His witty repartee immediately set the scene for the interior viewings, which were peppered with interesting historical facts and information about the growing displays of fine china, fine clocks, furniture and so on. Then we were invited to tea in the cosy Edwardian kitchen where we much enjoyed cream tea scones which had been cooked just that morning by Michael himself. Afterwards we wandered the grounds and paid particular attention to the walled kitchen garden complete with various fruit trees.

All in all, an excellent visit to a splendid property. A fitting end to the success of the first half of the 2022 programme. We resume early September with our first Autumn lecture, “The Stuff of Life: A history of Still Life” by Aliki Braine available at Solberge Hall or live online by HYBRID ZOOM For details click HERE