Manor House History
The Manor House began its history, from documented evidence, as a Yeoman dwelling- probably in the sixteenth century. The original house is substantial structure with large stone fireplaces on the ground floor with the remains of others in the bedrooms.
In his history of County Durham, Robert Surtees notes the purchase of meadow and pasture land in Ferryhill, which relates to the Manor House estate in the 1870's.
John Wilkinson of the parish inherited the estate and in 1642 sold it on to John Shawe, a man of some standing in the community, being of the Protestations that year. He was a Captain, Church Warden and a Constable during the troubled times of the Civil War. He was in fact imprisoned by the parliamentary forces in Durham for a short duration. On his death the Manor passed to his Grandson Ralph.
By the early 1700's the house and land had been sold and passes through various hands until Thomas Arrowsmith and William Shields inherited it jointly. Having raised half the value of the estate, Thomas bought out William's share of the estate and went on to manage the land.
Thomas went on to join an Agricultural Society, and implemented many improvements in farming from 1803. Records show that he gained valuable premiums for his sheep, hogs and weight improvement of his beef cattle during the first seven years of the society.
Thomas was required to repay a loan and was forced to take another mortgage in 1832 and upon his death in 1845 his wife and daughters inherited the estate. By 1885 only the Manor House remained of the original estate, as the land was sold to local Colliery Owners. The house was restored in 1891 and occupied by Agent and Colliery Manager Henry Palmer.
Several owners have followed before it was bought by the present owners.
Since taking over the Manor House the garden at the rear of the pub has had extensive work completed, as has the exterior. All of the rooms have been refurbished in keeping with the property.
During restoration and modernisation of the Hotel great care has been taken to maintain the charm and elegance of the former house, making the Manor House a great period property with lots of character.