Ollerton Hall

Ollerton Hall
We have found what we think was a hidden Catholic chapel in the attic, from when it was owned by the Markham family.
Thomas Markham settled at Ollerton in the latter part of the 16th century and his family is credited with creating the original hall. They family was also known for having connections to Queen Elizabeth I.
The Markhams were Catholics at a time when England was a Protestant country and their hidden chapel provided them with a secret place of worship.
The building was later owned by the National Coal Board in the 20th century, to house workers from nearby pits and their families.
Features from this time can still be seen inside, including where old ranges were situated to cook meals.
More recent brickwork inside reveals how the building is made up of works from different periods.