Liverpool’s Knowsley Hall to open to the public next month

Aug 20 2009 Chester Chronicle

THEIR name is synonymous with horse racing.

Now Lord and Lady Derby are offering people the chance to share in their love for the Sport of Kings.

Knowsley Hall, the 600-year-old stately home where the couple live, is once again open to the public for a week this year.

This time, as well as allowing the public an opportunity to gaze at the building’s classic Georgian facade and Jacobean and Baroque interiors, tours will include a viewing of a private collection of equestrian paintings.

Horse Heroes will showcase the family’s paintings of legendary horses, including former Derby winners such as Sir Pete Teazle, Hyperion and Sansovino, as well as work by Sir Alfred Munnings and John Wootton.

Home to the Earls of Derby since 1385, the tour of Knowsley Hall also offers visitors a chance to see the 58ft-long state dining room, 2,500-acre private park and a venue which is an increasingly in-demand location for television and film.

Knowsley Hall’s director of operations, Edward Perry, said: “Not only does Lord Derby own a racing stud in Newmarket, but in recent years he has enjoyed unparalleled success with his famous racehorse, Ouija Board.

“Lady Derby is also a dressage rider and loves all things equine, so it is hardly surprising Horse Heroes will feature some of the family’s best-loved paintings.

“As on previous occasions, we expect a lot of interest in the open days, which give visitors the chance to see one of Merseyside’s hidden treasures.

“This year, they will also be able to see some marvellous paintings, which show how the Earls of Derbys’ passion for the Sport of Kings has grown and flourished across the centuries, producing some of history’s most famous horses along the way.”

Lord Derby published a book on the success of the legendary Ouija Board – Ouija Board: A Mare In A Million – two years ago.

The stately home will open its doors for a week of pre-booked tours from Monday, September 14 to Friday, September 18, starting at 10am and finishing at 4pm.

Tickets for the guided tours are priced at £12 each. For more information, call 0151-489 4827. Alternatively, visit www.knowsley.com.