Barley Mow House, Westbury, Shrewsbury, Shropshire

The perfect place to relax and get away from the pressures of modem day life, Barley Mow House stands in 2 acres of gardens and pastureland. We are 1/4 mile from the nearest main road in a quiet rural setting 10 miles west of Shrewsbury beside the Stiperstone Hills and the Long Mountain and close to the Welsh border. Barley Mow House started life 400 years ago as a 17th Century farmhouse built from local stone with several outbuildings including an adjoining cow-shed which is about to be converted for residential use. A Malt House was added some 200 years later, along with the Georgian front, and served as a public house until 1991 when it was tumed into a beautíful private house. The house is set in an acre of garden, with a large car parking area.

There is a pretty patio area, partly under cover, with table and seating which (weather permitting) is always available for tea/coffee and biscuits/cakes. A traditional Full English Breakfast, to the vistors' own choice, is served in the attractive, spacious dining room (which used to be the Public Bar). Vegetarian alternatives are always available with advance notification. Food is cooked on our new AGA in the newly refurbished farmhouse kitchen. Packed lunches are available on request.

Aston Rogers is a small hamlet with a scattering of houses and two farms on what used to be the old main road from Westbury to Worthen. 50 years ago a by-pass was built thus creating an ideal place to get away from the noise and bustle of modern-day life. To the north we have the Long Mountain with the derelict site of Caus Castle on a high ridge overlooking the hamlet and valley. To the South-west we look onto the ancient hills of the Stiperstones and Callow Hill where famous local authoress, Mary Webb, got inspiration for her books, such as "The Golden Arrow". There are three very different en-suite bedrooms, all very well finished with central heating, tea/coffee tray, colour television and hair-dryer. Iron and ironing board are available on request. 17th Century Farmhouse Bedroom: this is a sunny bedroom with views over the Stiperstones and surrounding countryside. It has a king-size bed and its own landing and bathroom. The Studio Bedroom: this is situated in the old Malthouse and has a wealth of oak beams. It is a large bedroom on two levels, with twin beds and a lower level sitting area, which can be easily made into a family room. It has its own landing and bathroom incorporating bath and over-bath shower, washbasin, toilet and bidet.

Situated on the border with Wales, the surrounding area is one of both outstanding natural beauty and historcal interest. For those who enjoy walking and the great outdoors, we are a short drive away from the Stiperstones National Nature Reserve, famous for the "Devil's Chair" at its rock-strewn summit. Explore the newly-opened Leadmines at Snailbeach. Alternatively, for a sporting day out, why not try your hand at shooting on the nearby Minsterley Ranges. There are also a number of castles to explore, from the well-preserved remains at Powys, Shrewsbury and Chirk to the ruins at Montgomery, Ludlow and Stokesay. 2 miles from Stokesay at Craven Arms is the new and highly aclaimed Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre where you can see the famous Shropshire Mammoth and experience a simulated balloon flight. Nearby is the Acton Scott Historic Working Farm, an ideal day out for both adults and children. Within easy reach are a number of fascinating towns (Welshpool, Montgomery and Shrewsbury all being within 20 minutes drive). Enjoy the architecture of the area which ranges from the beautifully preserved Georgian splendour of Montgomery to the timber framed houses and medieval passageways of Shrewsbury. Altematively, pay a visit to Ironbridge, the home of Thomas Telford and Abraham Derby and the birthplace of the mdustrial revolution; now a World Heritage Site, the visitor centre at Blists Hill offers visitors the chance to walk over the World's first bridge made from iron and to step back in time to a period when Britain led the world in technology. GUEST COMMENTS : "Please let us come back! "Blue Remembered Hills". Lovely views from a lovely garden.", "Wonderful place. We couldn't have found a better one. everything was perfect. Thank you very much", "Fantastic. Lovely room Charming.", "Absolutely marvelous spot; great people, great space. Thank you so much for taking the time to chat!", "Thank you for such lovely accommodation and excellent breakfast. All the very best for the future.", "Very friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Wish we could stay longer."

Rates : From £24 to £34 per person per night.
Children are welcome.
No smoking. Pets allowed by arrangement.
4 Stars Highly Commended AA.
Disabled facilities - please enquire for exact details.