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 Along the corridor from the Old Kitchen there is an electronic bell system. It was added in the 20th century, probably some time after 1901 when electricity was introduced to the House and operated in addition to the Victorian system of bells in the Servants’ Hall.
The Servants' Hall was, from the building of the House, intended to be the area where the servants would gather and eat their meals. It is likely that there were two or more long tables across the width of this room, complete with benches. Men would sit at one table, women at the other. The room, like many others didn’t entirely survive the changes Charles Barry made to the House. The columns though structural in appearance, were probably later additions. There are hooks around the walls that were probably coat hooks for footmen's uniforms. A Victorian bell system can be seen around the tops of the walls, a common feature of most country houses and a reminder that the servants were never far from their master or mistress’ command.
The Servants' Hall has since been used as a carpenter’s and maintenance workshop and storage area. It now has displays of objects relating to the servants who lived and worked here. Discover weird and wonderful objects from bed warmers to gun powder dispensers; dress up as a servant and try your hand at lifting the coal scuttle; ‘talk’ to an 18th century steward, or even Lord Harewood, on the interactive displays.
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