Upton Cressett

Come with me for a trip into the lush green countryside that is my beloved Shropshire, to visit a little gem that has been hidng from the world for hundreds of years. Upton Cressett Hall snugglescomfortably into the landscape, not a huge house, but beautiful, cherished and another reason for me to love this wonderful county.The house is owned by MP Bill Cash, although his son now looks after and lives in the house and has continued its restoration.

From June 2012 Can you see the Gatehouse in this photograph?  What a wonderful place for the in-laws to stay at Christmas. No-one would get under your feet in there would they? The Gatehouse is now used as an upmarket holiday let, although if your name is Margaret Thatcher or Liz Hurley you get invited to stay as a guest of the familly. During the English Civil War Prince Rupert of the Rhine also took shelter here from those despicable Roundheads.

From June 2012 Not bad for guest wing is it?

From June 2012 It even has its own courtyard garden

From June 2012 And the attention to detail even in this small garden is wonderful.

From June 2012 As I said, the main house isn't huge, there are no roped  off areas, no teasels on chairs to prevent you sitting down and you take tea in the dining room around the family's table. There is a warm welcome from the guide and a wonderful afternoon of peace and quiet if you decide to visit.

From June 2012 I loved the way this lion's head was placed casdually on the garden wall

From June 2012 and the chimneys showing off the skills of the master builders.

From June 2012 At the end of your visit you can visit the tiny church

From June 2012

From June 2012 before leaving through the gate into the winding lanes of the prettiest county in England.

From June 2012 Make sure you click the link above for some interior shots of this house and do visit if you can. Let me know if you're going - I'll join you if I can.