Evie: Hi team! Let’s start with how did Elton Hall come to be what it is today? I’m sure it has an incredible story.

Elton Hall Team: Elton Hall has been home to the Proby family since the 1660s. The story goes back even further, though — Sir Peter Proby was granted land here by Elizabeth I for his services to the Crown. It was his grandson, Sir Thomas, who expanded the earlier buildings on the site and created the foundations of the house you see today.

What makes Elton Hall so enchanting is how it has evolved over the centuries. Every generation has left its mark, so when visitors walk through the rooms, they’re seeing a fascinating mix of styles and stories. The house is full of treasures — a wonderful art collection, beautiful antiques, and an extraordinary library of rare books.

Evie: The setting is just as beautiful as the house itself, too.

Elton Hall Team: Absolutely. Elton Hall sits within parkland beside the River Nene, and the gardens are a real highlight. Visitors can wander through formal borders, clipped hedging, topiary, and the Orangery, all with lovely views back across the lawns to the house. The gardens are always evolving — we’re constantly refreshing planting, adding new borders, and opening up vistas.

Evie: What can visitors look forward to this season?

Elton Hall Team: We’re delighted to have Henry VIII’s Prayer Book back on display after its loan to the National Portrait Gallery’s Six Lives exhibition. It’s a piece that always fascinates visitors, and it will be available to view again this year.

We also offer two different ways to explore the Hall. Guided Tours early in the season and free-flow visiting later in the Summer for those who prefer to wander at their own pace.

Evie: Is there something about Elton Hall that often surprises people?

Elton Hall Team: Yes — how many people don’t realise we’re open to the public. We often hear, “I’ve lived nearby for years and never knew you were open!” We’re frequently described as a hidden gem, which is lovely, but we’re always happy when locals discover us for the first time.

Evie: Do you all have a favourite place on the estate?

Elton Hall Team: Definitely — sitting on a bench in the Flower Garden on a warm summer’s day. The bees are buzzing, the Coriolis fountain is gently trickling, the breeze carries the scent of the flowers, and you can hear visitors chatting as they wander. It’s peaceful, uplifting, and the view across the hedge to the Hall is just beautiful.

Evie: What do people tend to talk about after their visit?

Elton Hall Team: Our wonderful team of House Guides and Stewards. They’re incredibly knowledgeable about the family history, the building, and the collection, and they love sharing that with visitors. We’re often told how friendly and enthusiastic they are.

Evie: English Tourism Week is all about celebrating local stories. Do any stand out for you?

Elton Hall Team: We often meet visitors whose families have long‑standing connections with Elton or the Estate. Sometimes they even bring old photos. We don’t have much of this in our own archives, so hearing these stories adds a whole new layer to the life of the house. It’s wonderful to see how deeply rooted the Hall is in the local community.

Evie: Elton Hall truly is one of Northants' treasures — rich in history and full of character. Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Elton Hall Team: Yes! For English Tourism Week, we’re offering a complimentary entry for 2 and a guide book for any opening date in 2026. Full details can be found on the Discover Northamptonshire Facebook and Instagram pages. Best of luck to all who enter!

We're also looking forward to welcoming everyone to Elton Hall this year. Pre-booking is strongly advised to secure your preferred entry time. Please check our website and social media for ticket announcements for 2026 coming VERY soon!