History
16th Century – The Tudor Origins
Hurlston Hall Estate dates back to the reign of Edward VI (1547–1553). The original Hall was a striking black-and-white Tudor building, constructed in half-timber, lath, and plaster. It served as the ancestral home of the Hurlston family, whose name appears in several forms over time — Hurlston, Hurleston, Hurlstone, and Hurlton. The name is even found in the Domesday Book, listed as one of Uctred’s possessions in “Derbei Hundret”, meaning one hundred hides or units of land.
17th–18th Century – The Hurlston Legacy
The Hurlston family were established landowners in the area and are believed to have later moved south to Hurleston, near Chester and Crewe. Local history tells that the family held a private pew in Ormskirk Parish Church — complete with doors to keep out the draft. This privilege, said to have “frozen out” nearby worshippers, became a well-known part of village folklore.
Early 19th Century – The Sharrock Family
By the early 1800s, Hurlston Hall Estate was home to the Sharrock family, who became known for their hospitality and community spirit. The large hall often hosted dances and gatherings for local residents. Anne Grizedale, a former headmistress of Pinfold School, and her husband raised six sons. Their son Evan Sharrock was a talented accordion player who regularly provided music for the dances.
1914–1918 – The Great War
Tragically, Evan Sharrock was killed during the First World War, and with his loss the family’s enthusiasm for hosting community dances faded. After this period, the once-bustling estate grew quieter, marking the end of an era for the Sharrocks.
1920s – Change and Renewal
By the 1920s, the original Tudor Hall was demolished. The nearby willow beds were converted into a fishing lake, and later a caravan park was established. The old Dutch barn was eventually replaced with modern facilities — today home to the gym and spa complex on the estate.
20th Century – Land Ownership
Much of the surrounding land in Scarisbrick was historically owned by the Marquis de Casteja family, linked with Scarisbrick Hall. Over time, the land was rented to local farmers and later purchased by the Martland family, who continued to lease it out. Eventually, ownership of the Hurlston Hall Estate passed to the Vose family of Heaton Castle Farm.
Late 1980s – A New Vision
By the late 1980s, Jim and Ruth Vose recognised the growing popularity of golf and decided to diversify their farmland. Plans were drawn up to transform over 200 acres of the estate into a championship golf course. The land was reshaped and landscaped to create a setting that blended perfectly with the surrounding countryside.
1994 – Hurlston Hall Golf Club Opens
In 1994, after years of careful design and development, the Hurlston Hall Golf Club officially opened on the historic Hurlston Hall Estate. It marked a new chapter in the estate’s story — one that continues to combine heritage, leisure, and community.
Today – Heritage and Hospitality
Now owned by the O'brien Family Hurlston Hall Estate remains a place where history and modern life meet. The echoes of its Tudor past and village tales endure, while the golf club, spa, and leisure facilities welcome a new generation of visitors. More than 450 years after its beginnings, the estate continues to evolve — proud of its roots, and looking confidently to the future.