Wilderhope Manor was always going to be the most challenging property to fit in on this trip, as it is only open for a short window on certain days – because the rest of the time the grand house is a Youth Hostel!
It was a miracle that I found the place at all as it was down a narrow track, past a farm, and there were few signs for any National Trust visitors.
Despite the evident enormity of the building, only two rooms were open to those not staying at the hostel – the great hall, and a smaller sitting room – both of which had striking fireplaces.
Disappointingly, there was very little information about the manor or its history at the property – other than a very tired A4 folder with photocopied pages from a National Trust guide.
Thus I’ve gone to my old friend Google to find out a little more, so let me impart what I’ve discovered.
The manor is Elizabethan, built in 1585, and was lived in by the Smallman family until 1734.
Between 1734 and 1936, no-one lived in the house so it fell into disrepair. However, Wilderhope Manor was purchased by the William Adlington Cadbury Trust in 1936 and gifted to the National Trust, on the condition it was used as a Youth Hostel.
Verdict: Probably a brilliant Youth Hostel to stay in, disappointing as a National Trust property. Only worth popping in if you’re passing.
A Year of Trust 