Spring Flowers Tour

Acton Scott Hall is a Grade II*-listed Elizabethan Manor House built in brick for Richard Acton (d. 1590). The house is an exceptionally early example of a double pile plan set in the beautiful Shropshire hills with stunning views over Wenlock Edge, made famous by A E Housman’s “A Shropshire Lad”. 

The Acton Family continues to maintain the house, estate buildings and land. Acton Scott Hall has oak-panelled reception rooms containing many interesting artefacts including Jacobean woodwork and friezes, unique fireplaces and a collection of fascinating family heirlooms. There is the site of a Roman Villa on the estate and documented information on the excavation carried out there by Frances Stackhouse Acton in 1817 and 1844.

The basic layout of the gardens and much of the planting from 1807 is still represented in the lawns, ancient trees, archery ground, former flower garden, walled garden and secret garden, (known as the Rock or Quarry Garden). 

The house is adjacent to Acton Scott Heritage Farm, which was the brainchild of Mr Thomas Stackhouse Acton (d 2020). Mrs Lucy Acton (d 2019) left a comprehensive account of the history of Acton Scott Hall, the Estate and family members in the form of unpublished books. They offer a wonderful insight into the past of this tranquil and timeless gem.

Led by members of the Acton family, your tour includes the Georgian Conservatory, Drawing Room, Library and Justice Room, the basement and hallway with their Jacobean carving. Upstairs the tour includes the Oak Room bedroom with fine carvings in the 17th-century wall panels and bed, and the newly refurbished en-suite Green Room bedroom both of which can be booked for overnight stays. 

Ticket price includes tea/coffee and home-made cakes.