Category: Castles & Abbeys (4)

Castles & Abbeys to visit in Shropshire

 

 

 

Lilleshall Abbey was an Augustinian abbey founded between 1145 and 1148. For centuries it was recognised as a place of esteemed worship, and in some cases, even burial.

The monastic life at Lilleshall Abbey was funded by a land and other properties that were located locally, esepcially during the first 100 years of it exhistance. Other examples can be found all across Shropshire, including Haughmond, Shrewsbury, Uckington, Wroxeter and Tong.

It’s well worth a visit if staying locally. It offers an incredible sense of tranquility which is hard to find in 21st century Britain – an overwhelming sense perhaps for some with a number of stories of ghostly abberations. The occasional cow could well be your only companion on the adjacent farm track, in an otherwise totally rural and picturesque setting. On a summers day, it is a most delightful place for a moment of contemplation.

The property is cared for by The English Heriatge and it’s free to visit with opening times from 10am during Spring and Summer. Parking is limited, but then that’s the beauty of the place, as you’ll probably have it all to your own.

For more information, visit the English Heritage website: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/lilleshall-abbey/

 

Lilleshall Abbey in Shropshire

Lilleshall Abbey in Shropshire

 

Boscobel House, on the Shropshire/Staffordshire border was built in 1632, and converted from a farmhouse into a hunting lodge by John Giffard of Whiteladies. Giffard himself a Roman Catholic, Boscobel served as a place of shelter for other Roman Catholics (at a time when the religion was much persecuted)..

Following the death through execution of King Charles I in 1649, his eldest son Charles failed in an attempt to regain the throne. Young Charles was forced to flee for his life following defeat in the final conflict of The Cival War at Worcester.

The future King Charles II originally attempted to cross the River Severn into Wales, but found Cromwell’s patrols blocking his way. He sought refuge instead at Boscobel, hiding first in a tree which is now known as The Royal Oak and then spending the night in a priest-hole in the house’s attic. He travelled on in disguise via other safe houses before escaping to France.

Boscobel remained a working farm and visitors today can also see the dairy, farmyard, smithy, gardens, and a descendant of The Royal Oak tree. White Ladies Priory, now a ruin, another of Charles’s hiding places, is a short walk away and set in peaceful Shropshire countryside.

  • Discovering the future King Charles II’s hiding places, including ‘The Royal Oak’ tree and secret priest hole
  • Spectacular views over the fields on the two-mile round walk to White Ladies Priory
  • Exploring Boscobel’s history as a working farm and seeing the ducks and chickens
  • Visiting the education and family room where you can try on armour and dress as a Roundhead or Cavalier, get creative at the art table and try and guess the mystery object!
  • Victorian games in the garden including croquet, quoits, skittles and skipping ropes

Check website for prices and opening times

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A still and peaceful winters day at Boscobel House

A still and peaceful winters day at Boscobel House

Stokesay Court is a magnificent Grade II* late-Victorian mansion imposingly set within extensive landscaped grounds in rolling South Shropshire countryside.

Stokesay Court

Unspoilt and secluded, Stokesay Court is still a lived-in, private home and open exclusively for pre-booked guided tours, which provide a unique opportunity to see a virtually untouched Late Victorian mansion interior. Set in stunning countryside just outside Ludlow with wide ranging views, the house is a rare, architecturally intact, survival.  The oak carved galleried hall and the intricate crafted detailing throughout are particularly noteworthy.

Stokesay Court was the location for the film “Atonement” and the specially commissioned decor and artefacts from the film are on display throughout the house and gardens. A guided tour includes behind-the-scenes insight to the filming of ‘Atonement’.

Stokesay Court, inside

Pre-booked guided house tours are available on selected dates or by appointment (for groups). GROUP BOOKINGS can be arranged up to two weeks in advance of the visit and can be scheduled to start at any time from 10 am through to 3.30pm. Guided tours start at 14:30. Individual places must be pre-booked (01584 856238) and cost £15.50 per head. Pre-booked tickets include guided house tour, tea with home baked cakes and gardens.  Further information and tour dates for individual bookings can be found on our website (see below).

Visitors are welcome to explore the grounds following the tour. We regret that tours are not suitable for young children.


Website: www.stokesaycourt.com
Email: info@stokesaycourt.com
Stokesay Court, Onibury, Nr Craven Arms, Shropshire SY7 9BD
Tel: 01584 856238

 

Aug
19

Ludlow Castle

A majestic example of a medieval castle set in the picturesque Shropshire countryside sitting high above the River Teme.

Nearly a 1000 years old, it was originally a Norman fortress built to hold back the unconquered Welsh. Over the next 200 years the castle was extended to provide a Royal Palace – and heavily guarded one at that. The centuries passed and the castles ownership switched between the de Lacy and Mortimer families. In 1461 it fell under Crown ownership and remained a royal castle for the next 350 years. The castle was abandoned in 1689.

During the next few hundred years the castle had fallen into ruin, but in 1811, Ludlow Castle was bought by the 2nd Earl of Powis and has remained in their ownership ever since. Through their careful conservation the castle decline has been prevented and is now a wonderful visitor attraction which provides many events throughout the year.

A visit to Ludlow Castle is a step back in time. Here you can watch a jousting spectacular or watch knights battle it out in armed combat. For something a little more serene, perhaps try your hand at a little archery, watch the birds of prey or partake in crafts and dressing up sessions. Check their website, www.ludlowcastle.com, for the Events Calendar and prices.

Of course, you can also take a tour of the castle at your leisure or follow one of the guided tours. With seasonal festivals and fayres held throughout the year, there’s always plenty going on at Ludlow Castle. During September, the Ludlow Food Festival is held and is renowned for it’s quality offerings. Wonderful food and drink and fun for all the family.

“Everything a British food event should be….unbeatable location. It’s also huge fun – I wouldn’t miss it” BBC Good Food Magazine

All in all, whilst enjoying your holiday in Shropshire, a visit to Ludlow Castle is highly recommended.

 

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