Walcot Hall

Walcot Hall dates back to Tudor times, the original Elizabethan facade being gabled. In 1763, Lord Clive of India commissioned Sir William Chambers, leading architect of the time to redesign the house. Although it has been slightly reduced in size to suit modern requirements, its aspect is as intended by Chambers - a perfect Georgian elevation, with parapet walls and sash windows, accompanied by a stable block with twin bell towers.

The house is now home to the Parish family, who have lived here for almost half a century. It is open to the public for two days on 29th and 30th May 2005. Tours of the Hall can be arranged at other times by appointment only.

The gardens at Walcot Hall cover over 30 acres, including one of the finest Arboretums in Britain with a rich profusion of tree, shrub and herbaceous plantings. The Turkey, Oak and Lime avenue leads to the gateway to the Hall, which overlooks lawns, roses and a rolling meadow falling away to the lake with the Long Mynd in the distance. Behind the Hall and Ballroom are gardens with a display of Rhododendrons and Azaleas, best seen between May and June. Pathways lead up into the Arboretum beyond, with some 26 acres of trees.

The gardens around the house are only open two days a year, in conjunction with the National Gardens Scheme. This always takes place on Sunday and Monday of Whitsun Bank Holiday. Opening hours are 1.30pm to 5.30pm. There is an option to view the Hall (for the mere price of £1) and home made refreshments are served in the Ballroom.