National Trust Visit to Croft Castle

The National Trust property Croft Caste is just over the Shropshire border into Herefordshire, so not at all far from me. It is not a property I have visited previously so was a little unsure what to expect. Croft Castle is a manor house and does not look like a typical castle, that is if a castle has a typical look. The Croft Estate was established back in the year 1055 by a Norman Knight, the house and estate are of a considerable age.

Croft Castle walled garden

We first explored the grounds, there is a wonderful large walled garden, laid out with many different planting schemes :- a vineyard, roses, a pond, fruit and vegetables, flowers and lawn.  There was a small area with a display of poppies to commemorate the First World War.    The glasshouse is currently part of a restoration project and requires quite a lot of work to bring it back to its heyday.

Croft Castle gardens

The weather whilst not glorious sunshine was warm and a little cloudy, still good weather to enjoy our picnic. I can not comment on the tearoom as we did not use it, may be on my next visit.

Croft Castle - Saloon

Next we explored the castle, which felt more like a house than a castle. There were two rooms within the house that stood out and were especially enjoyable. The Saloon is set for the period of 1920's there was a pianist playing the piano and we were encouraged to sit, take time and enjoy the room and the ambiance. There were wonderful views from the windows of the Croft Estate and surrounding Herefordshire countryside. 

Croft Castle Hunt Ball

I was also captivated by the dining room, which was laid out for a hunt ball during the 1930's. There was some background noise being played which gave the room the sounds and feel of guests gathering for the hunt ball.If my day is an example of a typical visit to Croft Castle then you can expect to experience a relaxed, enjoyable and atmospheric visit. 

Other National Trust properties visited:-

Baddesley Clinton
Sunnycroft