The Inspiration of Marley Hall
10 January 2010

 

Over the centuries Marley Hall has had a mixed and fascinating history. An extensive and sympathetic restoration programme started in 1995 created the lovely family home which can be seen today. Fine plaster ceilings in the dining hall have been restored under the guidance of English Heritage, and evidence of the original wood framed house has been revealed throughout. The Grade 2 listed house has many original features, including rare fluted beams in the study and lounge and  the original Saville coat of arms in stained glass within the original transom window glazing in the magnificent dining hall where David Atack paints. The large north facing window provides the ideal light for the artist, and he can be seen at work as one enters the great hall through the original nail-studded plank door in its tudor surrounds, with stone seats on either side.

 

 

 

 Set in 12 acres of park land where deer roam freely, Marley Hall and its separate coach house front onto a cobbled courtyard, which is flanked by a modern barn, workshop and old dairy together with an imposing stone built barn. There is a listed walled garden to the north side of the house, again with the Saville coat of arms above the archway. And all round the house there are mature gardens which offer colour and interest at all times of the year. A look through the window, a glance at the beams or plaster work, or a walk with his dog through the grounds and by the woods and waterfall, and the artist is inspired to paint.

 

  

Marley Hall is presently shrouded in snow and looks absolutely beautiful - here we see the artist looking over Marley Hall estate from "Freedom Meadow" to its south - truly inspirational!!!

 

 

 

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