A new historical publication has been released that explores the deep cultural roots of our shared Shropshire landscape. 2026 Edition: Volume 1 of the official Hawkstone Follies guidebook is now available, highlighting the remarkable links between these historic lands and William Shakespeare’s beloved comedy, As You Like It.
While this is very much the story of Hawkstone Follies, Soulton Hall was pleased to support the team there to help make this project happen.
Hawkstone Follies Guidebook: “…I like this place. And willingly could waste my time in it.”
This new guide explores the artistic network that connects Hawkstone Follies and Soulton Hall to early English literature.
The historical ties are profound:
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Old Sir Rowland: The landscape historically relates to Sir Rowland Hill of Soulton, who acquired both the Soulton and Hawkstone estates in 1556. His legacy and character directly inspired the figure of “Old Sir Rowland” in the play.
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Thomas Lodge: Sir Rowland Hill purchased these estates from Sir Thomas Lodge, the father of the poet and author Thomas Lodge. The younger Thomas Lodge spent time within this setting, which provided the direct inspiration for his 1590 pastoral romance, Rosalynde—the primary source material that Shakespeare adapted for As You Like It.
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A Shared Landscape: The ancient woodland and dramatic sandstone geography served as the real-world backdrop that helped shape the fictional Forest of Arden.
Preserving Our Shared Heritage
Soulton Hall assisted in the preparation of this publication, which contains protected intellectual property of the Ashton family and has benefited from the scholarly support of Byrga Geniht Ltd. To ensure its place in the national record, copies of this new edition have of course been sent to the British Library and to the other legal deposit libraries.
We invite you to discover these hidden literary dimensions on your next visit to the area. Copies are available now.
This was covered in the press here.
