Contemporary Family Portrait Causes a Stir

A new and controversial portrait has recently been hung on the historic walls of Somerleyton Hall. The painting, of the Honourable Hugh Crossley, hangs between two very traditional portraits of his great great grandparents in the Oak Parlour, the first room you enter when you take a tour of the Hall. But with hidden words and messages there is nothing traditional about the modern and contemporary style painting commissioned by Hugh. With some people loving the portrait and others disliking it, it has become a talking point for visitors, staff and family alike. “The portrait has caused quite a stir,” admitted Mr Crossley. “I like the fact it has become a talking point – even my parents are divided over it. My Mum loves it and my Dad, well, let’s just say he’s not quite so keen.” “I’m really pleased with it though. I was looking for a portrait that echoed the way we are driving things forward here on the Estate,” said Mr Crossley.

Spooky Fund Raiser at Somerleyton

Forty fearless phantom finders were greeted by some spooky goings on at a charity haunted house night at Somerleyton Hall.

Radio Broadland hosted the event with TV psychic investigator Lizzie Falconer and historian Nick Barratt.

The intrepid ghost hunters witnessed plenty of spooky activity including slamming doors, strange lights and whispering voices heard at the historic Hall.

The honourable Hugh Crossley said, “The night was a fantastic success with everyone having a great time. Most importantly, the spooky evening raised over £5,000 for local children’s charities.”

In the press - media quotes

“The house has been beautifully restored and converted” – Condé Nast Traveller, January 2007

“On his family’s farming estate, Hugh Crossley has turned a 16th-century inn into a relaxing, contemporary hotel and restaurant, with fresh flowers everywhere. Interesting artwork, comfy sofas, a lounge with a large fireplace and good meals using estate produce.” – The Sunday Times, December 2006 – “Ten hotels on the way up”

There’s a new run in stylish, good-value boltholes” – Financial Times How to spend it magazine – December 2006

“It has been transformed into a particularly smart boutique hotel” - Eastern Daily Press – August 2006

“The distinctive bedrooms are luxuriously furnished to the nth degree with all of them boasting individual design and layout. But one thing they all commonly enjoy is wonderful panoramic views of the adjoining parkland. It’s an enviable pastoral setting and a jewel in the estate’s crown. I found the restaurant a quality establishment from head to toe and one that I felt very relaxed and comfortable in.” – Norwich Evening News, July 2006

“The rooms are wonderful - the hotel has an emphasis on taking good care of its guests and this is underlined by the quality of the food offered in the bar and restaurant. An ideal location for all ages and a welcome refuge from the frantic pace of modern life” – East Magazine, August 2006