National Trust - Washington Old Hall — Attraction in Sunderland

Interesting, because this place isn't so much of a recognition of George Washington who was born some eighteen generations down the line (and many houses) from the founding the founding Washington. The Hall is more of a celebration to the life of the beneficent Fred Hill, who was responsible for saving this place. Fred had a passion for history and worked hard to get this place internationally recognised. But far more than that, this History teacher devoted his life to improving the welfare of his pupils, and strove to inspire all those around him through his enthusiasm & passion, and in particular his vision of what restoring this Hall might mean for the community. So albeit that there is a distant ancestoral link to this place, for me, it's about the achievements and life of Fred Hill. Alas he was too ill to witness the fruits his efforts to attend the Halls opening in 1955 and died before it was given over to the National Trust in 1956. However tenuous the connection with George Washington, it was enough to attract some funding and gifts from America, and a visit by President Jimmy Carter in 1977 where he and Priminister James Callaghan planted two trees on the village green nearby. They are there now, an English Oak and an American Tulip Poplar, and the spades used are exhibited in the Hall. The interior of the Hall is really only a represtation of furnishings of that time. The history of the place is presented on information boards on the first floor as well as a room representing what this place would have been like when split into nine very basic unsanitary tenements from late 1800s to around 1930. With one outside water tap and no internal plumbing it was deemed unfit for human habitation and closed in 1932. It was just after this date that Fred Hill formed the presevation committee to purchase and restore the property. The gardens would be nice to enjoy on a sunny day, and they've provided lots of games/entertainment for kids, but it was raining when I visited. I should finally mention the modern art exhibit as you enter the property. A construction with various parodical metaphores of American culture. Didn't really...

Haven't been for about 3 years won't be back for a couple of reasons. Cafe closed. The most upsetting reason. My friend mentioned to the volunteer that we had been there 3 times before. So she said then you'll know all about the Hall. My friend said no. The volunteer then started to explain about the exhibition which were dummies sat around a table. About 5 minutes later the explanation suddenly stopped and she said to my friend you'll know about the family who lived here and had 16 children and how many died- seems that you know all about the Hall. Then the talk about the exhibition started again- two minutes later it stopped again. The volunteer said I'll stop boring you any questions. At this we left and walked round the gardens. Entered the shop and the same volunteer was talking to another volunteer. As soon as she saw my friend she said here's the lady who knows all about the Hall - then suddenly left the shop before we could say anything. We thought the comments uncalled for and very disrespectful. So beware don't mention you've been before. Also take note the car park is closed if you have mobility issues...

We visited Washington Old Hall recently after waiting for it to reopen from Covid. It was certainly worth the wait.

My Daughter loved the mouse hunt in the hall itself and the history of the building itself is very interesting indeed. The guide in the house was also very keen to answer any questions too.

I have seen on other reviews that people have complained about the grounds but I think they are a perfect balance of Formal and neat at the hall and the wild garden which is still tidy yet perfect for nature.

The only downside to the grounds was that the bird feeders never had any food in. Other than that though they were perfect.

When we visited they had a mobile making craft day on for children which was free to do. Staff were friendly all throughout the site too.

The car parking is on the street outside however there is disabled parking on site if required. There is also toilet facilities on site too.

People have complained about the lack of coffee shop on the site. There is some local shops not far away for those that need refreshments.

All in a very good place to visit and we will...