It's 'Hall' systems go for prime Fylde attraction

Officials at the Grade I-listed Fylde attraction have been delighted with the response from the public since the second stage of lockdown easing allowed them to open its grounds to visitors after more than three months of closure.

Thousands of people have passed through the gates in the opening week and general manager Peter Anthony and colleagues are eagerly preparing for Stage Three of the Government's road map, when the Hall itself will be permitted to reopen for tours, hopefully next month.

The Hall grounds are also to host a series of outdoor events this summer, with the highlight a six-night programme of concerts billed as 'WonderHall'.

In the meantime, along with the 70-plus acres of picturesque grounds and the opportunity to eat and drink al fresco, a newly-introduced Hall shop has been proving a big hit - and has already prompted a re-think of trade forecasts.

The shop, offering a wide range of Hall-branded items, was officially opened by Fylde's own rugby legend Sir Bill Beaumont and is staffed by volunteers.

"As we prepared to open the shop, we felt we would be happy if it brought in around £25,000 a year," said Peter.

"After the response in the first week, we are already anticipating it to be more successful than that - and that's even before we are able to welcome tour parties.

"Sir Bill was thrilled to see this further asset being added to all that Lytham Hall has to offer and it has certainly created quite a stir in its first week and exceeded our expectations. Some referring to it as a miniature Harrods."

Fylde MP Mark Menzies officially reopened the gates of the Hall grounds and praised the Hall staff and volunteers for their dedication.

Peter added: "Our first week since reopening has been blessed with exceptional weather which certainly attracted the visitors in their droves.

"The al fresco catering had a record-breaking first week. All visitors have been well behaved and all acted totally responsibly by observing the restrictions, hand sanitising and wearing face masks where required.

"The new courtyard furniture, including outside heaters, umbrellas, and additional tables and chairs have proved immensely successful.

"Due to restrictions, our staff have to operate table service only. This does mean multiple trips for every order taken, so we do ask for patience until the next level of restrictions are lifted and things should get easier on that front.

"The Leafy Lytham Garden Hub and the Antique Hub have proved very popular during the first week, along with our Animal Hub which the children and adults of all ages seem to love.

"It has been an absolute pleasure to see the 78 acres of historic parkland being enjoyed in the glorious sunshine. We hope this is just a taste of a very successful season ahead."

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