(Above) Courtesy National Trust
The National Trust's hard-fought campaign to raise £3 million to save Seaton Delaval Hall for the nation has ended in success thanks to a combination of old-fashioned tin shaking, government support and charitable donations.
In one of the biggest public campaigns in the Trust's history, an appeal was launched in July 2008 to save the crumbling 18th century Vanbrugh-designed house, together with its garden and 400 acres of surrounding land.
The romantic Grade I-listed ruin was originally accepted by the Government in lieu of inheritance tax and gifted to the National Trust through the Acceptance in Lieu (AIL) scheme.
HM Revenue and Customs, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council also aided the acquisition.
Courtesy National Trust
Originally built between 1718 and 1731 by Sir John Vanbrugh, the architect of Blenheim Palace and Castle Howard, the Hall was partly destroyed by fire in the 19th century, but it is still widely regarded as the finest work of the English Baroque and one of the most important historic houses in Britain.
"Seaton Delaval Hall is a masterpiece of 18th century architecture," said Culture and Tourism Minister Margaret Hodge. "I am delighted that it has been saved thanks to the Government's AIL scheme and fantastic campaigning and fundraising."
Fiona Reynolds, Director-General of the National Trust, described the purchase as "a wonderful Christmas present for the nation."
"It has been an incredible journey and we have been thrilled by the goodwill and support we've received from so many people," she added.
Courtesy National Trust
"From the start of the campaign we've worked together with the public, and especially the local community, to shape Seaton Delaval Hall's future and decide how the building, gardens and grounds can best be used for the benefit of everyone."
More than 100,000 people took part in the biggest public consultation in the National Trust's history to shape the future usage of the Hall. The Trust now plans to open the Hall to the public in spring 2010, combining a role as visitor experience and a valued community resource.
As well as establishing arts and performance spaces, a Trafalgar Square Fourth Plinth-style initiative will open the Hall to individuals and groups, inviting them to bid for the chance to take over the Salon for a temporary exhibit or activity.
Visitors and local residents will vote for the best ideas, which could include events as diverse as contemporary sculpture, rock climbing, dance classes or book clubs.
Courtesy National Trust
Championing local, seasonal food, the Walled Kitchen Garden will be restored with gardening plots offered to schools, other community groups and visitors.
The Trust also plans to open up the Hall's East and West Wings for the first time, shaping plans with the public via behind-the-scenes tours and online presentations.
"We want to open the doors as soon as possible to give those who've supported the appeal the chance to visit, get involved, and share our excitement about this wonderful place," said Catherine Atkinson, the National Trust's new Property Manager for the Hall.
Courtesy National Trust
Additional investment in Seaton Delaval was received from the regional development agency One North East. Northumberland County Council and The Art Fund also made significant contributions.
Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/seatondelaval for the latest news and opening arrangements.
