+ Group visits to The Ballance House

If you are part of a group that would be interested in a morning or afternoon out at historic property of The Ballance House, we would be pleased to hear from you.  We can host your club outings, society meetings, classes or workshops.  A great place for an engagement party, baby-naming ceremony, birthday party, or wedding photography on the lawn to name but a few!  

Our restored 19th century Parlour is most atmospheric if you are looking for character and a genuine historical reference.  The Ballance House will add quirky charm to any occasion.

Our Guides will give you a guided tour round the Exhibition and the House.  Morning coffee or afternoon tea is served in the Tea Barn.

Please contact us and we will get back to you to discuss your visit.  Suitable for all types of groups and clubs.

Charge:  

  • Tour only £5 per person.  
  • Tour plus refreshments: £10 per person.

 

Further Information:

  • The Exhibition will allow wheelchair/visually impaired users to be close to objects.

  • An accessible toilet is available on the ground floor. Baby changing table available.

  • A stair lift is available for access to the first floor of the Exhibition.

  • Seating is available in all areas of the House

  • The Ballance House is an 19th century restored property made of stone and some areas can be cool. You may wish to bring an extra layer, just in case.

  • Information for self-guided tours: we can provide information sheets, in large-print if required.

  • Guide, assistant and companion animals – including assistant dogs in training, are welcome throughout the property. Water bowls will be available. Plenty of space for cars and bikes, disabled access, and comfortable seating.

 

+ School Groups

A fun and educational trip day out for all primary school children. The experienced Ballance House volunteer team will introduce pupils to the following:

  • A chance to find out more about a very famous Victorian gentleman called John Ballance

  • Living and working conditions on his Victorian farm

  • An insight into New Zealand culture and wildlife far-removed from our own or on the other side of the world

Come and find out more about how John Ballance the eldest of 11 children emigrated to New Zealand and went on to become the Premier and why he became known as ‘The Rainmaker’. Our educational programme can be tailored to suit the curriculum and your pupils’ educational needs in the primary sector.  

Charge: £3.00 per pupil (all pupils must bring their own food and drinks).  Please get in touch with your school name, likely number of pupils, potential dates and any particular learning needs; we will then contact you to discuss further.

+ Venue Hire

The Ballance House can be hired for meetings, organisational events, away days, special events, family occasions, and senior citizen birthday parties. 

Facilities:

  • Our comfortable Function Room seats 65.  

  • Tables/chairs can be arranged to suit, eg lecture theatre, workshop, boardroom style.

  • Multimedia facilities include display screen, data projector, speakers, laptop connection, DVD player, microphone and lectern.

  • Refreshments (tea/coffee/scone) can be provided for morning or afternoon events.  Cost: £5 per person.

  • Details of external caterers can be arranged upon request. There is also the option for you to arrange your own catering.

  • Our lovely front lawn is a great spot for an outdoor event, with the House and Tea Barn providing indoor space should the weather be inclement. Please contact us to discuss your requirements in more detail.

Charges:

  • To hire the Function Room, which includes the use of our Tea Barn (which seats 60): £300 for a full day, £200 for a half day.
  • The Function Room and Tea Barn can be hired separately.  Cost for each: £150 per day, £100 for a half day.

 

+ Weddings & other Ceremonies

Please go to our Weddings page for further information.

See our Gallery page for more images.