One of the earlier occupants, from before 1831 until his death in 1837, was Captain John George Boss (1781–1837) R.N. He had a distinguished naval career, being involved in the capture of several French vessels and the protection of British trading interests in the Caribbean during the Napoleonic Wars. He was a Member of Parliament for the Northallerton constituency (1832–1835) and he gained the rank of captain in November 1833.[3] He married twice: Charlotte Robinson (née Pennyman) in 1814, who died in 1832 aged 56, and Elizabeth Wylie in 1834.[3]
Otterington Hall was the birthplace of British anti-fascist, linguist, and photographer, Alec Wainman.[4]
It was home to the Furness family for many years, and they were responsible for planting much of its topiary gardens from the 1920s onwards, "one of the best topiary gardens in England and certainly the best in Yorkshire".[2]
It has been home to Andy Preston, the Mayor of Middlesbrough and a former hedge fund manager, and his wife since at least 2007.[2][5] In 2015, Preston was criticised for using his parents' Middlesbrough address on his nomination papers, rather than that of his actual home, but he denied breaking election rules.[6]
Architecture and grounds
Otterington Hall is a red-brick Georgian country house located near Northallerton in North Yorkshire. The building features later additions that are sympathetic to the original design. The Historic England listing describes Otterington Hall as having a hipped slate roof, symmetrical five-bay frontage, and sash windows with gauged brick heads.[1]
The estate comprises approximately 76 acres, including formal gardens, paddocks, and woodland. A walled garden, sweeping lawns, and mature specimen trees contribute to the setting. The interior of the house retains original period features, such as fireplaces, panelled doors, and a central staircase typical of Georgian architecture.[7]
Community role
Otterington Hall has served as a venue for public and agricultural events, most notably hosting the North Yorkshire County Show on several occasions. The show attracts thousands of visitors annually and includes livestock competitions, horse riding displays, vintage vehicles, trade stands, and rural crafts.[8][9]
By hosting the event, the estate contributes to the social and cultural life of the area while maintaining ties to its agricultural surroundings. The use of privately owned heritage sites like Otterington Hall for such public purposes reflects a broader trend in integrating historic estates into community activities.[8]
Ownership and sale
The property was offered for sale in 2023. This marked only the second time it had been placed on the market since 1926.[10]
The estate was previously owned by the Furness family, who were prominent in the British shipbuilding industry.[10] The sale included the main house, landscaped gardens, woodland, and multiple outbuildings.[7]
Country Life described Otterington Hall as a country property with potential for use as a family home or events venue.[11]
Location
Otterington Hall is situated south of Northallerton and lies within accessible distance of the North York Moors. It is located near the A19 and benefits from proximity to local rail connections.[7]
↑ Farman, Chris; Rose, Valery; Woolley, Liz (2015). No Other Way: Oxfordshire and the Spanish Civil War 1936–39. London: Oxford International Brigade Memorial Committee. p.99.
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