The Mansion
In 1811, John Clarke (died 1857) of York, architect of the 'Commercial Buildings' in Leeds city centre, was commissioned by Nicholson to design the Mansion House. It was built in the classical style, of two storeys with seven bays, the centre three set behind an iron portico, built in ashlar stone. It was one of Clarke's early works and took some years to build. It is of modest size, but elevated to command views southwards over the park, and provides a focal point to Thomas Nicholson's designed landscape.
The Mansion stood empty for many years after the departure of catering firm, Gilpins. Events and catering company 'Dine' was appointed by Leeds City Council to run The Mansion, and in 2009, after refurbishment and gaining a civil ceremony licence, The Mansion re-opened to the public. The venue contains a restaurant and cafe, and hosts private functions.
In December 2008 a small library of books on parks, wildlife and nature was opened in the buildings.
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Famous quotes containing the word mansion:
“Look,
I draw the sword myself; take it, and hit
The innocent mansion of my love, my heart.
Fear not, ‘tis empty of all things but grief.”
—William Shakespeare (1564–1616)