Historic grade I hall to open its doors as a restaurant and venue

THIRSK-BASED businessman Martin Williams has launched Acklam Hall Ltd as a vehicle for the restoration of the grade I-listed building.

The rehaul of the Middlesbrough site, in the old North Riding of Yorkshire, is due to be completed in February 2016.

It has taken 18 months of restoration to bring dozens of its original rooms back into use, and Mr Williams will be investing in a restaurant in the hall, dubbed The Brierly (named after Walter Brierly who designed to 1912 alterations to the hall) as well as four function suites for weddings and events.

The “multi-million” redevelopment of the 17th century building will create over 20 new jobs in Middlesbrough.

Acklam hall dates back to the 1680s, and was home to the Hustler family for nearly 250 years, before becoming a school in the 1930s.

Martin Williams, from Acklam Hall Ltd, said: “Acklam Hall is one of the most recognisable buildings on Teesside and very much loved by the local community, many of whom went to school there or had family who did.

“We’ve spent many months very carefully restoring the hall with some of the best experts in the field and dozens of original features are now back to their former glory.

“The interest in what Acklam Hall will have to offer has been phenomenal and we have a number of weddings and events already booked for 2016 and 2017.

“We’re offering something very different in a majestic setting full of history whether you’re looking for a large, corporate event, wedding or special occasion, dining or drinks with friends or prestigious office space.

“We have had an impressive response from high profile applicants for roles within the restaurant and the kitchen team which will be announced in the coming weeks.”