Sheffield Manor Lodge

Originally a fine Tudor country estate, the remains of Sheffield Manor Lodge are now an important visitor attraction and give a glimpse into medieval history.

History of Sheffield Manor Lodge

The Manor Lodge site was built within an ancient deer park, and it’s likely that a far older hunting lodge stood on the site to serve the administration of the park and to house those who visited the area.

In the early 16th century, the Earl of Shrewsbury considerably updated this medieval structure and it became more manor house than hunting lodge. Further renovations carried out in the 1570s completed the transformation of the site into an impressive Tudor estate.

Notable figures to have spent time at the Lodge include the infamous Cardinal Wolsey, who resided here for a few days after falling from favour with Henry VIII, and Mary Queen of Scots, who spent 14 of her 19 years of captivity in Sheffield, often at Manor Lodge. Though in the custody of George Talbot, Mary was treated as a Queen, at great expense to both him and his wife, Bess of Hardwick.

By the early 18th century the Manor Lodge had largely been abandoned by its owners and was largely demolished, leaving only a shadow of the site’s former grandeur.

Sheffield Manor Lodge today

Today the most prominent surviving aspect of the Manor Lodge is the original Tudor Turret House, which can be explored through organised tours. The ruins of a number of other structures can also be viewed and are currently under excavation.

A recent renovation project has seen the development of a Discovery Centre, which takes visitors through the history of the estate, while the surrounding park and gardens are also popular, and offer excellent views of the city.

Getting to Sheffield Manor Lodge

Sheffield Manor Lodge is approximately 2 miles from Sheffield city centre – an 8 minute drive via the A 6135 and Manor Lane. (Free/Disabled parking is available).

From Sheffield train station, take either the blue or yellow tram or a bus from Sheffield Interchange (5 minutes’ walk across the main road outside the station). Buses 7, 8, 50, 53, 71, 120, 24, 25, 10 and 56 also stop nearby.