A Shakespearian walk: Bluebells in the As You Like It woodland

A SHAKESPEARIAN WALK: BLUEBELLS IN THE AS YOU LIKE IT WOODLAND AND OLD SIR ROWLAND'S POLYMATH LANDSCAPE.

An unforgettable exploration of Soulton Hall, where every step reveals a new layer of history and wonder.

Join us for a journey through the captivating landscapes of Soulton Hall, where history, legend and natural beauty converge. This in-depth tour explores the rich tapestry of this remarkable site, beginning with the revelations of a six-year archaeological excavation that has brought the lost castle to light.

We will trace the remnants of the lost avenue, envisioning the processions of a bygone era, and pause at the serene Well of Catharsis (Holy Well), a place steeped in ancient traditions and consider the 'Sermons in Stone' of Soulton Hall.

The 'As You Like It' woodland

We will then enter the normally private and enchanting As You Like It Wood, especially vibrant during the bluebell season, and explore the connections between this landscape and the world of William Shakespeare. "Old Sir Rowland" in As You Like It is inspired by Soulton's Rowland Hill, who was a cousin of Mary Arden. Moreover the source text, "Rosalynde" (1590) was written by Thomas Lodge Jr whose father held this manor before Sir Rowland Hill and his boyhood is linked to this setting in the Forest of Arden which extends well into Shropshire. We will discuss the historical context of the area, and how it influenced Shakespeare's famous play.

Our path then leads us to the Soulton Long Barrow, a newly constructed feature built in honour of ancient traditions. This feature allows us to experience some of the feelings our ancestors may have felt.

Inside the Long Barrow

We will see the famous dancing pavement at Soulton Hall before finishing with tea and cake.

Important Information: This tour requires a reasonable level of fitness, as participants will be walking approximately 3.5km over a period of about two hours, with limited opportunities for seating. Please come prepared for the weather with appropriate footwear and coats.

Refreshments: Your ticket includes tea and cake, which will be served at the conclusion of the tour.

Weather contingency: In the event of inclement weather, the landscape tour will be substituted with a tour of  Soulton Hall.

A Unique Experience: Please note that this specific landscape tour, incorporating the archaeological site, historical connections to Sir Rowland, and the "As You Like It" Wood, is being offered for the first time, to meet public demand to have guided access to this normally largely private landscape.

This tour offers a unique opportunity to:

• Witness the ongoing work of archaeological discovery at the lost castle site.

• Experience the tranquillity of the Well of Catharsis.

• Visit the Soulton Long Barrow, a new feature honouring ancient traditions.

• Immerse yourself in the beauty of the bluebell-filled As You Like It Wood.

• Explore the historical connections to Shakespeare's "Old Sir Rowland."

This is an outdoor landscape tour, for house tour dates, please click here