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The year is 1599, Edward Norris has finished building Speke Hall. It’s a time wrought with danger, secrets and survival. Join us on a theatrical and immersive tour that brings to life the perilous history of the Norris family and Speke Hall.

Elizabeth I is on the throne. The Pope has excommunicated her from the Catholic Church, and there have already been two plots to replace her with a Catholic monarch. Her patience is running thin with those who remain loyal to the Pope and the old faith.

Edward Norris, like many recusants, is building safe places to hide priests who are travelling in secrecy around the country. Any priest ordained abroad since 1559, if caught, is automatically deemed a traitor and executed. For the families hiding them, a similar fate could await.

Edward Norris and his wife, Margaret, are entertaining a select group of trusted guests, whom they know will help keep the house's secrets. As they prepare to take Catholic Mass, a spy within the group has alerted the pursuivants that the family is harbouring the known priest Richard Brittain. Will the spy reveal themselves? Will the priest be caught? Witness and be a part of the secrets, intrigue, and interrogation as you discover what really happened during this dangerous period of history.

Please note:

• Please park in the main car park and make your way to the stable tea room.
• Show will last approx. one hour. 
• Please dress warmly - you may experience some chills! - and wear flat, comfortable shoes.
• The event is not suitable for those who are not able to stand or walk for extended periods of time. The tour includes the first floor of the house, which is only accessible by a staircase.
• Suitable for over 18s only.
• The hall will be lit only by candlelight, making it darker than usual. The performance will include elements of Catholic mass.
• Your ticket includes a delicious warming one-pot, tea or coffee and a tasty sweet treat.