SEVENTEENTH century Steeton High Hall, formerly the home of world-famous photographer Alex Keighley (1861-1947), was one of the first private houses in Yorkshire to participate in the Open Garden movement – now the National Garden Scheme – founded in 1927 to raise funds for worthy causes by allowing the public in on summer weekends.
At Steeton High Hall, Alex Keighley created an old-English garden including the lily pond seen here, ornamental topiary, an L-shaped lawn and a huge beech encircled by seats.
He added a dovecot in 1928, and in 1934 two mill stones utilised respectively as a giant sundial and a compass.
Open Garden Sunday at Steeton featured a chance to visit Mr Keighley’s studio to see his latest photographs and pastels, and a concert whose performers were treated to tea.
Collections were in aid of Keighley Victoria Hospital. When blessed with fine weather, attendances could reach about 1,500.
A local correspondent in 1940 described “the pleasure of sitting on the shaded lawns and viewing the charms of the well-kept old-world garden in its full summer glory of flowers”, noting particularly the lily pond “where the goldfish are ever a source of attraction to young people”.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here