Unlike most galleries, Abbot Hall did not start with a collection that needed somewhere to be displayed, but with a building that needed saving. Abbot Hall was built in 1759 by Colonel George Wilson, the second son of Daniel Wilson of Dallam Tower, a large house and country estate nearby.

Blackwell the arts and crafts house illustrates incredible architecture and the special atmosphere of an intimate family home. The house is simply furnished, and examples of Art Nouveau can be seen throughout the property, including: stained glass plants and flowers and intricate wooden panelling in the hall.