THIS image from the picture archives of the Lancashire Telegraph shows a historic hall.

The image, which shows Towneley Hall, Burnley, in 1799, is a copy of a watercolour by J.M.W Turner as an illustration to the Rev Thomas Dunham Whitaker’s History of Whalley.

The book, which dates back to 1800, is a bedrock source for all East Lancashire’s historians.

The ancient hall and 62 acres of grounds, connected with the Towneley family since at least the 13th century, were bought by the corporation in 1902 to become an art gallery and museum, surrounded by a public park.

The hall was the family home of the Towneley’s for nearly five centuries.

Owned, managed and financed by Burnley Council, today, the hall is popular all year round with residents and visitors who come from near and far to see what the iconic landmark has to offer

From the Priest’s Hole to the attic, the hall is fascinating with period rooms covering several centuries of life at the hall.

Between 2005 and 2011 the Heritage Lottery Fund granted £3.2 million to help fund a major programme of restoration of Towneley Park, which surrounds the hall.

Perhaps you have a tale to tell about Towneley Hall and park.

Share your memories with ben.butler@nqnw.co.uk.