Built in Medieval times to repel neighbours and relatives, Turton Tower reveals the aspirations of the Lancashire landed gentry through several centuries. During 1530-1595 the Tower was transformed into a fine Tudor house on a scale so lavish that the owners had to sell it to pay the building costs. In 1835 it was bought by a local mill owner, who restored the Tower and added Romantic-Gothic follies. Today, the Tower displays a historic range of furniture and woodcrafts from the Renaissance period to present-day. Rooms include a circa 1600s bedroom, 17th-century dining room, drawing room with a splendid plaster ceiling and a bedroom with furnishings designed by William Morris and CR Ashbee. Nine acres of woodland garden feature a Victorian tennis court. Tearoom, guided tours, special exhibitions, parking, picnic facilities. Closed Dec-Jan; open Bank Holidays. Tel (01204) 852203
