Unveiling Soulton’s Hidden Landscapes: A First-Time Archaeology, Bluebells, and Shakespeare Tour
Embark on an extraordinary journey through Soulton Hall’s captivating landscapes, where the echoes of history resonate amidst natural beauty, on the afternoon of 06 April.
We need to meet the growing public interest in our normally private grounds, and have designed this this unique tour (being offered for the first time ever), to invite you to explore the convergence of archaeology, literary legacy, and ancient traditions which happens at Soulton in its important landscape.
Shakespeare Quote on a sign in the AS YOU LIKE IT wood at Soulton: And this our life exempt from public haunt
Finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks,
Sermons in stones and good in every thing.
I would not change it.
Click here for the ticket link, via the HHA website.
Our exploration begins with tangible remnants of the past: the revelations unearthed during a six-year archaeological excavation, which has brought the lost castle of Soulton to light.
Soulton Hall has been the setting of a number of digs with Dig Ventures
We’ll then trace the vanished avenue, imagining the processions of a bygone era, and pause at the tranquil Well of Catharsis (Holy Well), a site steeped in ancient lore. Here, we’ll ponder the ‘Sermons in Stones’ that Soulton Hall whispers through its very foundations.
This image depicts a scholarly reconstruction of Soulton Hall, highlighting its architectural elements inspired by the ancient theater of Epidaurus. The yellow lines trace these features, revealing the Rowland Hill’s homage to the renowned Greek structure.
Our path then leads us into the normally private and enchanting As You Like It Wood, a spectacle of vibrant bluebells during this season.
Shakespeare Quote on a sign in the AS YOU LIKE IT wood at Soulton: And this our life exempt from public haunt
Finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks,
Sermons in stones and good in every thing.
I would not change it.
This is where the world of William Shakespeare intertwines with Soulton’s history. “Old Sir Rowland” in “As You Like It” is inspired by Soulton’s own Rowland Hill, a cousin of Mary Arden. Moreover, the source text, “Rosalynde” (1590), was penned by Thomas Lodge Jr., whose father held this manor before Sir Rowland. Thomas’s boyhood in the Forest of Arden, which extended into Shropshire, profoundly influenced his writing. We’ll delve into the historical context of this area and its influence on Shakespeare’s celebrated play.
Soulton Long Barrow in its landscape
Our journey continues to the Soulton Long Barrow, a newly constructed feature that pays homage to ancient traditions, offering a glimpse into the sensory experiences of our ancestors. We’ll conclude our tour with a visit to the famous dancing pavement at Soulton Hall, before enjoying tea and cake refreshments.
Important Information:
- Fitness: This tour requires a moderate level of fitness, involving approximately 3.5km of walking over two hours with limited seating. Please wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the weather.
- Refreshments: Tea and cake are included in your ticket price and will be served at the end of the tour.
- Weather: In case of inclement weather, the landscape tour will be replaced with a tour of Soulton Hall.
A Unique Experience:
This is the inaugural offering of this specific landscape tour, combining archaeological insights, historical connections to Sir Rowland Hill, and the beauty of the As You Like It Wood. This tour offers:
- An opportunity to witness ongoing archaeological discoveries at the lost castle site.
- The tranquility of the Well of Catharsis.
- The Soulton Long Barrow, a tribute to ancient traditions.
- The enchanting bluebell-filled As You Like It Wood.
- The historical links to Shakespeare’s “Old Sir Rowland.”
