HOUGHTON HALL, HALL LANE
Houghton Hall is located on Hall Lane, Houghton-le-Spring, and can be found by walking east up Church Street and across the pedestrian bridge over the A690.
The building, which dates from the 1600s, has had many uses over the years - including Mansion House, Social Club and YMCA - but is currently home to the Shipman family who have diligently renovated the much-neglected building. Former residents included Captain Robert Hutton and Sir George Elliot, Bart.
The old Hall is said to be haunted by the ghosts of the White Lady, Elizabeth Elliot, who died in a fire there, and the spirit of Captain Hutton.
Whatever you believe, there is no mistaking that Houghton Hall is one of our most interesting buildings.