As Christmas Day begins, we send our sincere wishes for a warm and peaceful celebration for all who are celebrating, from everyone at Soulton Hall.
Soulton Hall in the snow
Soulton has always stood as a place of refuge and quiet strength: centuries ago, it was the vision of Old Sir Rowland Hill, hero of As You Like It, the statesman and protector of diverse beliefs, to create a home of sanctuary where differing views could seek harmony.
Snow in Base Court, looking on to Soulton Court
This deep historical commitment is one we remember day by day, but especialy at Christmas, drawing inspiration also from the story of Erkenwald, who, reminds us that:
there is not distance in time or space through which virtue will not recognise virture
— James D. Wenn, Byrga Geniht
It is with this legacy of finding virtue amidst hardship that our thoughts turn to those around the world who are enduring conflict or suffering for their beliefs. The quest for fundamental human liberty, which Sir Rowland and his peers championed, feels especially vital today.
We hold a simple hope for this season, a hope that echoes the final promise made in the old play about Soulton’s most famous resident:
First, in this forest, let us do those ends
That here were well begun and well begot:
And after, every of this happy number
That have endured shrewd days and nights with us
Shall share the good of our returned fortune,
According to the measure of their states.
Meantime, forget this new-fall’n dignity
And fall into our rustic revelry.
Play, music! And you, brides and bridegrooms all,
With measure heap’d in joy, to the measures fall.
May the generous spirit of Christmas and the grace of reconciliation bring comfort and strength to those who need it most.
We hope for better, brighter days for all, and look forward to the possibility of welcoming you to share in Soulton Hall’s good fortune in the coming year.
With kindest wishes this Christmas morning,
The Family and Team at Soulton Hall
A path in Soulton’s AS YOU LIKE IT WOOD, covered in snow
