12th century Hopwood Hall to be restored

Hopwood Hall College Principal, Derek O’Toole, Hopwood DePree, Hopwood Hall College Deputy Principal John Spindler

Hopwood Hall, the derelict 12th century listed building in Middleton, is to be restored thanks to an heir of the Hopwood family. 

Hopwood DePree, a Los Angeles based actor, director and producer, is a direct descendent of the Hopwood family whose ancestral home was Hopwood Hall from when it was built until the 1920s. Keen to find out more about his English ancestral home, Hopwood made his first visit last year and since then has become a regular visitor.

Hopwood explains: “When I first got the chance walk around the Hall it was very surreal. To think that generations of my family lived and grew up in the Hall is really awe-inspiring. I am eager to help bring the Hall back to life and to contribute to the work that Hopwood Hall College is doing. Once I met with their enthusiastic team I knew that we could work together to do just that.”

As a result, Hopwood Hall College and Hopwood DePree have now signed a statement of intent which will see both parties work together on a range of projects connected to the restoration of the Hall, which it is anticipated will be completed by the end of 2016.
One of these projects is the production of a TV programme currently titled ‘Keys to the Castle’, based on the restoration and Hopwood exploring his historical roots in Middleton. As well as by applying for funding from the Heritage Lottery and the local Enterprise Partnership, it is hoped that through airing the programme in both the UK and US, awareness will be raised to help in the restoration efforts of the Grade 2* listed building. Once restored, plans include tours of the Hall and gardens for the public. It is also hoped if enough funding can be generated that the Hall could become a boutique hotel and restaurant where students will be able to gain hospitality training and experience for future job opportunities.

In addition, the deal will also see the development of a new film and TV academy based at the Middleton campus. The aim is to position the College as the Greater Manchester centre for film, media and performing arts. This will be enhanced by the TV programme, which will also encourage students to carry out work placements and traineeships both on set and behind the scenes too.

Hopwood Hall College’s Deputy Principal, John Spindler said: “We are all extremely excited about the proposed plans. The agreement will ensure that the College continues to enhance its offering to students. We are very grateful for Hopwood’s commitment to helping the College in this way and very much look forward to working with him.”