There is evidence of human occupation in the area of Astley Hall since the Bronze Age - excavation work in the 1970s, near to the current Inn on the Park and car park, revealed evidence of a burial site. Objects from this excavation are on display in the Hall.

More recent excavations by the Chorley Young Archaeologists Club have revealed medieval remains within the present walled garden area. The earliest surviving part of Astley Hall visible today dates from the late 1500s, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.