Walcot Hall & Arboretum

A Georgian gem set in the stunning South Shropshire hills, Walcot Hall was originally a timber-framed house built in the 1400s, which was given to the family for pleasing the King. However after being given such a privilege the family gambled all their riches away and therefore had to sell Walcot.

‘Old Walcot’ dates back to Tudor times and the original Elizabethan front was gabled. Rebuilt in 1764 by Sir William Chambers for Lord Clive of India. Although it has been slightly reduced in size to suit present-day requirements, its aspect is as intended by Chambers – a perfect Georgian elevation, with parapet walls and sash windows, and with a stable block and bell tower building to match.  On Clive’s death the Hall and estate, passed to his son Edward, who later became the Earl of Powis. He lived 65 years in the house and carried out further additions including a magnificent ballroom and one of Britain’s finest Arboretums, still being maintained to this day.

Walcot Hall remained in the Powis family for 170 years, during which time large sums of money were spent on maintaining and improving the house and grounds.  In 1929 the Powis family decided to put Walcot up for sale or demolition. Walcot escaped the latter, thanks to its purchase by Mr. Stevens of Judge Enamel Ware, Brierly Hill in 1933. Walcot became home to his two sons, Ronald and Noel.

Walcot was purchased by the Parish family in 1957 and remains in their possession today. In 1984 the Ballroom was completely restored by Walcot’s current owner Robin Parish and now used for many events throughout the year such as balls, weddings and an annual opera.  The house has a “lived in” feel; the four Parish children are growing up fast and making their way in the world. Accustomed to the wide variety of visitors, here for house tours or as wedding & holiday guests, they have all done a stint working on the estate or at a wedding behind the bar.