History of Hindley Hall

Early History

A newspaper article from 1904 describes the history of the Hall from 1700 to 1904:

"Hindley Hall is an exceptionally large brick building with spacious rooms, and to the right of the long drive leading from the entrance gates, there is a large lake."

Newspaper article, 1904

Club House and Eighteenth Green, 1910

There is evidence that the hall has been rebuilt over the years by various owners, many of whom were notable Barristers and Parliamentarians of their day.

One of these, Sir Robert Holt Leigh, was said to be the greatest snuff taker in England. He was also a great epicure and generally tasted every dish on the table. He rebuilt the hall from his own designs but forgot to include a staircase.

The Fourth Green, 1910

Sir Robert was first returned to Parliament in 1802 as a member for Wigan and continued to represent his native borough until the year 1820.

The newspaper article continues:

"In the year 1798 when the peace of the country was disturbed by a spirit of discontent leading to insurrection and riot, he became Commandant of the society of gentlemen at Wigan called the Wigan Arms Association, and distinguished himself in various encounters with the mob

In the agitation that followed he suffered severely in the violence of the mob at the Wigan election, and used afterwards to tell an amusing story how the Liberals of the day when they got him to the ground and were intent on administering very severe corporal punishment, kicked 'each others' shins with their heavy clogs, as they hastily aimed at the prostrate body, to his amusement and satisfaction alike"

Newspaper article, 1904

The Fourth Tee, 1910

Through his life Sir Robert interested himself in all matters relating to the town of Wigan, and was a trustee of Wigan Grammar School.

He died at Hindley Hall on the 21st January, 1843 an his 81st year, a magistrate and Deputy Lieutenant of the County.

The Eleventh Green, 1910

The Golf Club

In 1905 the Club was formed by Wigan Coal & Iron Company as a private Golf Club 'For senior members of staff and invited guests only.'

In the mid 1930's the Course became the private Golf Club as it is known today.