Following the Civil War and into the 18th and 19th centuries, Smithills Hall changed hands several times, reflecting broader shifts in English society. The rise of the Industrial Revolution brought economic transformation to the Bolton area, historically a center of textile manufacturing.

Though Smithills Hall remained a country manor, its owners were increasingly drawn from the rising industrial middle class. This period saw further architectural modifications, including Victorian-era restorations and additions.

One significant owner in the 19th century was the Legh family, who undertook restoration efforts to preserve the historic character of the hall. These restorations included repairing timber frames, refurbishing interiors, and preserving the medieval stonework.

Architectural Highlights of Smithills Hall

Smithills Hall is a remarkable example of a multi-period English manor house. Its architecture reflects layers of history:

• Medieval Great Hall: The heart of the house, featuring exposed timber beams and a large open fireplace, characteristic of 14th-century construction.
   

• Tudor Solar Wing: A private living area added during the 16th century, showcasing early Renaissance influences.
   

• Jacobean and Elizabethan Features: Ornamental chimneys, mullioned windows, and carved woodwork demonstrate the stylistic changes of the late 16th and early 17th centuries.
   

• Victorian Restorations: In the 19th century, efforts were made to preserve and restore the hall's medieval and Tudor features while adding necessary modernizations.
   

• Moat and Gatehouse: While the moat is no longer fully intact, it hints at the hall’s original defensive purpose.
   

The blending of timber framing with stone and brickwork makes Smithills Hall a fascinating study in English domestic architecture. shutdown123