DISCOVER AUTUMN'S GLOW and Winter's Wonder at Hawkstone Hall Gardens
As the golden hues of autumn settle over the rolling Shropshire hills and winter’s crisp charm begins to emerge, Hawkstone Hall & Gardens steps into its most inviting season yet. The estate transforms into a haven of warmth and comfort, where the elegance of architecture meets the glow of cosy fires and the intimacy of heartfelt celebrations.
Looking back on a truly remarkable summer, we extend our sincere thanks to all our guests and couples who made the season so special. From vibrant weddings to unforgettable events, every celebration added to the magic and energy of Hawkstone. Your presence brought our gardens and halls to life, creating memories we will always cherish.
As we move into the final months of the year, the estate is filled with festive cheer and seasonal delights. From intimate holiday gatherings and Christmas celebrations to cosy afternoon teas and indulgent treatment experiences, every visit promises warmth, beauty and personal moments to treasure. Whether strolling through frost-kissed gardens or relaxing by the fire with loved ones, the season is a time to embrace comfort, reflection and connection. Inside this issue, you’ll discover inspiration for experiencing Hawkstone in all its autumnal and winter glory...
Unwind by the glow of cosy fires, breathe in the scents of warming aromatherapy oils, and surrender to treatments designed to restore balance, beauty, and calm before the celebrations begin... Continue on page 7...
Hawkstone Hall
EMBRACE CRISP DAYS, CHERISH COSY NIGHTS: AS THE YEAR DRAWNS TO A CLOSE AT HAWKSTONE HALL & GARDENS...
WINTER DREAMS COME TRUE AT
HAWKSTONE: Weddings, Wellness & Wonder
A warm welcome to Hawkstone Hall & Gardens - your destination for love, leisure and the magic of the season.
After a glorious summer filled with celebrations, romance, and unforgettable memories, we’re turning the page to a new chapterone of crisp autumn mornings, golden sunsets and winter magic. The team here at Hawkstone has been working tirelessly behind the scenes, curating dream weddings, delivering indulgent dining and crafting exceptional guest experiences.
Now, as October arrives and the landscape begins to change, we’re embracing a season that’s rich in beauty, warmth and celebration - and we can’t wait to share it with you. Our much-loved Festive Carols & Afternoon Tea events return this year with more Sunday dates than ever before - read more Christmas Events on page 4.
A Season of Weddings & Winter Romance
From the burnished tones of autumn to the enchanting sparkle of winter, Hawkstone Hall provides the perfect backdrop for extraordinary weddings.
Picture this: flickering candlelight, roaring fires and seasonal floral arrangements against a backdrop of frosted gardens and rolling Shropshire hills. This season, we’re embracing rich autumnal hues of amber, copper and deep forest green, transitioning into the soft elegance of winter whites, champagne golds and midnight bluesperfect inspiration for your celebrations and styling this season.
Whether you’re dreaming of a rustic October wedding filled with amber tones or a December ceremony wrapped in festive magic, our Hall is the perfect stage for your love story.
Your Guide to Winter Wellness:
As the pace slows and the nights draw in, winter offers the perfect moment to pause, reset and indulge in a little selfcare. Our treatment rooms have been thoughtfully designed to provide a serene sanctuary, where every experience is tailored to calm the body and soothe the soul.
This season, discover:
• Fireside escapes with a good book and a warming drink
• Seasonal spa treatments featuring exclusive winter scents
• Mindful retreats designed to restore balance and reconnect you with yourself.
At Hawkstone, wellness is more than a luxury - it’s an invitation to embrace stillness amidst the beauty of the countryside.
Festive Afternoon Teas & Seasonal Dining
The countdown to Christmas has begun, and with it comes the return of our Festive Afternoon Teas. A celebration of indulgence, complete with handcrafted treats, warming mulled wine and a touch of Hawkstone magic. Our seasonal dining menus in The Saloon showcase the very best of locally sourced ingredients, many of which are handpicked from our very own kitchen garden, inspired by the flavours and colours of the season.
Behind the Scenes: Preparing for Christmas
While the last of autumn’s leaves fall, our team is busy transforming Hawkstone Hall into a festive wonderland. By the End of November, expect twinkling trees, fragrant garlands and exquisite seasonal décor throughout the Hall. With luxurious Christmas packages, indulgent overnight stays, and exclusive festive events, Hawkstone Hall is the perfect place to celebrate the season in style. From all of us here - our dedicated team to our passionate management, we’re ready to welcome you with open arms and we promise this season will be filled with special touches and memories to cherish.
FROM HEATWAVES TO HARVESTS: A year of record-breaking weather, thriving crops and preparing for the seasons ahead...
Steve Stott, the head gardener for the Kitchen Garden at Hawkstone Hall, is delighted to share an update on the garden's progress and offer a few seasonal tips on what you can be planting during this period.
A Summer of Extremes:
Reflections
from the Kitchen Garden
As we come to the end of what has been the hottest summer on record, following the warmest spring, it’s fair to say this year has been extraordinary. The long, dry spell has certainly presented its challenges for the gardener, especially when contrasted with the summer of 2024, which was marked by persistent rainfall.
Keeping on top of watering has been one of the greatest tasks this year, as I’ve tried to conserve water wherever possible. Despite these challenges, the garden has rewarded us with an abundant variety of produce that has thrived far better than last year. We’ve enjoyed some outstanding harvests, with the kitchen garden supplying fresh produce weekly for the kitchen, most of which is used for our Sunday lunches - and continues to be.
One of the main issues I’ve faced during this hot, dry season has been plants going to seed much sooner than expected. When plants experience stress, they switch into reproductive mode, producing flowers and then seeds earlier than usual. To overcome this, I sow seeds every two weeks throughout the growing season, ensuring I always have spare plants ready to replace any that fail and to fill gaps left after harvesting for the kitchen.
Autumn Transitions
As we move into autumn, some crops are coming to an end and gaps are beginning to appear in the beds. For instance, after harvesting the last of the courgettes, I’ve planted Chinese cabbage in the same bed. All of our Asian vegetables are sown in August and planted out in September, as they prefer cooler temperatures. This year has also been exceptional for the Cucurbita family — including summer squash and pumpkins. The pumpkins, in particular, are enormous and will soon be on display at the entrance to the Hall for Halloween.
We still have cauliflower, broccoli, and cabbage in the ground, which will be harvested very soon and stored. In the greenhouse, lettuce has been planted in place of the tomatoes and cucumbers and will be harvested throughout winter.
Other vegetables currently thriving include:
Beetroot - will need to be picked if temperatures drop and remain low but stores well over winter.
Celeriac - will also be picked and stored.
Leeks, swede, and Brussels sprouts – these will remain in the ground and be harvested fresh as needed.
Sprouts - developed particularly well this year, thanks to being protected with fine mesh from pests. They are now covered with netting to keep the local pigeons at bay.
Purple sprouting broccoli - protected and will be ready for harvest by mid-January.
Jerusalem artichokes - thriving and will be harvested as required.
Composting continues throughout the winter, and I make sure to keep adding ingredients regularly. Fallen pine needles are an excellent addition, making up the brown component of my preferred three-toone green-to-brown mix.
Happy gardening, Your friendly gardener, Steve.
WHAT'S ON this Festive season at Hawkstone...
FESTIVE CAROLS
30TH NOVEMBER, 7TH, 14TH & 21ST DECEMBER
Step into a world of opulence as you arrive at 1pm to be greeted with your welcome drink.
Enjoy a delectable afternoon full of festive flavours and immerse yourself in the melodious strains of the District Shifnal Male Choir, whose performances promise to elevate the ambiance of each date.
£52.95 PER ADULT
CHRISTMAS EVE
WEDNESDAY 24TH DECEMBER
Celebrate Christmas Eve in pure festive elegance. Begin the evening with a glass of sparkling champagne before savouring an exquisite festive feast created by our talented chefs. Enjoy captivating evening entertainment and the thrill of two glamorous casino tables, adding a touch of excitement and sophistication to your night. Make the magic last longer by exploring our exclusive overnight Christmas stay packages, the perfect way to complete
£85.00 PER GUEST
CHRISTMAS DAY
THURSDAY 25TH DECEMBER
Make this Christmas Day one to remember with an unforgettable dining experience at Hawkstone Hall. Begin your celebrations with a glass of champagne on arrival, setting the tone for a truly special day. Indulge in a sumptuous festive feast carefully crafted by our expert chefs, and why let the magic end there? Stay the night with one of our exclusive Christmas stay packages and wake up to the beauty and tranquillity of the Hall on Boxing Day.
£145.00 PER ADULT
£72.50 PER CHILD
BOXING DAY
FRIDAY 26TH DECEMBER
Celebrate Boxing Day in style with a festive dining experience. Enjoy an arrival glass of prosecco before indulging in a delicious seasonal menu, thoughtfully prepared by our expert team of chefs.
Make the most of the festive period with our overnight Christmas stays, available from 24th to 27th December, with 1, 2, or 3-night packages to choose from.
£65.00 PER ADULT
a perfect autumn day at hawkstone
FROM CRISP WALKS TO FIRESIDE SIPS, INDULGENT FEASTS AND GLOWING AUTUMN SKIES.
As the leaves turn to gold and amber, Hawkstone Hall & Gardens in Shropshire offers the quintessential autumn escape.
Begin your day with a brisk countryside walk through the estate’s winding trails, exploring the serene forest paths, the shimmering lily pond, and the historic Hawkstone Follies, where dramatic cliffs and whimsical follies provide the perfect backdrop for autumn photography. Hunters wellies and bicycles are available for complimentary hire, making it easy to explore every corner of this stunning estate.
After a morning of fresh-air exploration, warm up with a cosy fireside drink in one of Hawkstone’s elegant lounges. Whether it’s a comforting hot chocolate, a mulled wine, or a seasonal cocktail, the ambience of crackling fires and soft autumn light makes for the perfect pause.
Dining at Hawkstone is a true celebration of the season. The award-winning Saloon Restaurant showcases locally sourced, seasonal ingredients - including fresh produce from the estate’s very own Kitchen Garden. Head Chef Jerome crafts refined British classics with subtle French touches, ensuring every meal is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
For those seeking relaxation, the new Treatment Rooms and Orangery Gym provide wellness experiences tailored to autumn indulgence. Unwind with a soothing spa treatment or re-energise in the bright gym overlooking the estate’s golden grounds.
For a touch of fun, The Cave offers an underground entertainment space, perfect for games, television and friendly competition. Whether it’s a leisurely day exploring the estate, an indulgent meal by the fire, or a full overnight stay with festive packages, Hawkstone Hall & Gardens transforms autumn into an unforgettable seasonal retreat.
Stay in Luxury
Hawkstone Hall & Gardens offers 35 beautifully appointed bedrooms and suites, each providing spectacular views over the rolling countryside or the tranquil gardens.
Guests can retreat to rooms complete with luxurious Aromatherapy Associates toiletries, fluffy robes and slippers, while attentive butlers ensure an elegant and seamless stay.
From the pared-back luxury of a Classic Bedroom to the grandeur of our luxury suites - every space is designed for comfort, indulgence and relaxation.
All stays include a full English à la carte menu and continental breakfast, making your autumn getaway at Hawkstone a true retreat from the everyday.
The perfect gift idea
stay vouchers
Empress Suite
£450.00 per night
Includes cooked breakfast.
One Night Dinner, Bed & Breakfast
From £315.00 starting at per night
Includes fizz on arrival, dinner for two, a Full English or continental breakfast in the morning, take part in our Historical Audio Tour during your stay and private film screen in our Cave (Available by pre-book only).
Classic Bedroom
£195.00 per night
Includes cooked breakfast. Cosy Suite
£345.00 per night
Includes cooked breakfast.
Luxury Suite
£419.00 per night
Includes cooked breakfast.
luxury treatment vouchers
Treatments
From £10.00
Treat yourself to ultimate relaxation with our exclusive treatment voucher. Enjoy a luxurious experience where modern amenities meet a tranquil ambiance. Whether you’d like to unwind with a soothing massage, rejuvenate with a facial, or simply indulge, this voucher offers the perfect escape. Not sure which gift experience to choose?
Our Treatment vouchers are available in denominations of £10.00 upwards and allow the recipient the flexibility to choose.
festive afternoon tea
Traditional Afternoon tea
From £34.95 per person
Includes a selection of freshly cut sandwiches, fruit & plain scones with clotted cream & preserves, a selection of cakes, pastries & tarts & our selection of loose-leaf teas or freshly brewed coffee.
Gentlemen's Afternoon tea
From £34.95 per person
Includes pork pie, beef & mustard cobs, scotch egg, pork scratchings, sausage roll, cheese scones & pickled onions, accompanied by a selection of loose-leaf teas or freshly brewed coffee.
Three Course Sunday Lunch
From £38.95 per person
The recipient will enjoy a carefully curated three-course Sunday lunch, served in one of our elegant dining spaces, surrounded by timeless charm and stunning views. From perfectly roasted meats and seasonal sides to indulgent desserts, every dish is crafted with care and served with warm, attentive hospitality.
for more information and to buy one of our vouchers scan the qr code or visit our website: hawkstonehall.co.uk experience vouchers
SCAN ME
Cosy Seasons, Deeper Relaxation:
A NEW CHAPTER OF COMFORT AND CALM THIS AUTUMN & WINTER
As the year draws to a close and the Shropshire countryside turns crisp with winter’s charm, Hawkstone Hall & Gardens invites you to embrace the magic of the season with moments of pure indulgence and festive celebration. Whether you’re seeking the perfect Christmas gift, a winter retreat for yourself, or a gathering to remember with friends and family, Hawkstone is the place where luxury meets togetherness.
THREE IMMERSIVE SPACES, ONE WINTER ESCAPE
This festive season, our newly opened spa treatment rooms provide the perfect excuse to escape the rush and gift yourself — or a loved one — some well-deserved serenity. Unwind by the glow of cosy fires, breathe in the scents of warming aromatherapy oils, and surrender to treatments designed to restore balance, beauty, and calm before the celebrations begin.
THE BLOOM CUPBOARD: A sanctuary for rejuvenation, where bespoke facials and deep tissue massages unfold under soft lighting and the scent of botanical oils. It’s a space to breathe, to bloom, and to reconnect with your inner stillness.
QUIETUDE : A post-treatment retreat, perfect for reflecting and resting in gentle silence. With plush seating, ambient light, and the calming essence of essential oils, it invites you to pause time and simply be.
PALMS AND SOLES : A garden-view space dedicated to manicures and pedicures, where nature meets self-care. Here, seasonal scents drift through open windows while hands and feet are pampered in natural daylight.
All guests can now book an array of signature treatments, including:
The 360 Wellbeing Facial (from £90) a ground-breaking top-to-toe facial that calms the nervous system while deeply cleansing and hydrating the skin.
The Ultimate Aromatherapy Experience (from £120) tailored with one of 14 signature oils and combining Swedish, lymphatic and chakra balancing techniques.
The Hawkstone Hall Ritual (from £105) which integrates crystal healing, rhythmic massage and Marma point therapy for a truly spiritual body reset.
Each session can be personalised with a preferred music choice, lighting style, and aromatherapy blend - ensuring a multisensory, deeply relaxing experience from start to finish.
FITNESS, WELLNESS, AAHH.. AND BREATHE.
Why not make Hawkstone part of your festive traditions this year? Bring your friends and loved ones for an unforgettable Christmas celebration - indulge in seasonal dining, sip on mulled wine beneath the Hall’s glittering chandeliers and finish the day with a rejuvenating treatment in one of our tranquil spa rooms.
Looking for something truly special? Hawkstone gift vouchers make the perfect present for friends, family, or even yourself. From signature treatments and wellness experiences to afternoon teas and festive stays, each voucher offers an invitation to slow down, savour, and celebrate.
For more information or to purchase a voucher, simply scan the QR code on the page to the left. It’s quick, easy and the perfect way to give the gift of a Hawkstone experience this festive season.
Add a touch of luxury to your Christmas tree this year.
PAST & PRESENT in the gardens...
EXPLORING THE ENDURING LEGACY OF THE HALL’S DOMESTIC AND 1960S WINGS
JOHN RUSCOE, LOCAL HISTORIAN
When the Redemptorists, a Roman Catholic missionary congregation, purchased Hawkstone Hall in 1926, the property was still largely intact. The Hall retained all the essential features of a grand country house, including its domestic wing, which extended to the rear of the north-east side of the building. This wing, a later addition to the main house, was constructed around 1832 by the architect Lewis Wyatt.
The Outside Offices:
Among the external buildings were a brewhouse, a game larder, and a laundry equipped with modern appliances, ensuring every convenience of the time.
On Monday, March 23rd, 1925, and over the three following days, the entire contents of Hawkstone Halltotalling 333 items - were auctioned on behalf of the late Sir William Cresswell Gray, Bart., who had recently sold the Hall.
A Description from the 1915 Sale Catalogue:
Located in the North Wing, the accommodation comprised on the ground floor: a kitchen measuring 27ft by 22ft, a servant’s hall (27ft by 23ft), a still room or housekeeper’s room, a flower room, larders, pantries, a bakehouse, and various stores. There were also rooms for senior staff and all other necessary domestic facilities. The well-lit basement included a house steward’s room, storage areas, and extensive cellars. Separate stairs led to five men’s and three maids’ service bedrooms, conveniently situated near the kitchen.
A detailed catalogue was produced for the 1925 auction, listing more than 800 lots divided according to the rooms of the house. These included the kitchen, still room, vegetable room, scullery, as well as the contents of the main state rooms and bedrooms.
When the Redemptorists took over, the domestic quarters continued to function much as they had during the Hall’s years as a country house. However, by 1962 it was decided that the service wing would be demolished to make way for a new development. In its place, a spacious refectory and kitchen were constructed on the ground floor, with sixty-five bedrooms added to the upper levels. The original basements, however, were preserved and remain intact to this day.
The new £125,000 wing was blessed and formally opened by Father Gaudread, head of the Redemptorist Order, who travelled from Rome to conduct the ceremony. The event was attended by more than 1,500 people, some journeying from as far afield as Newcastle-upon-Tyne and London.
During a visit to the Hall in 2016, the church was in the process of winding down, and the property had been placed on the market. I recall stepping into the refectory at lunchtime, where only a handful of staff, including Father Maurice, were seated at the trestle tables and benches, quietly eating their meal.
The room appeared rather bleak and dim, the atmosphere compounded by the chill of a dark winter’s day. It was a poignant scene, especially when compared with the bustling days of the past, when the Hall had been filled with men and women devoted to serving the church. For many years, people had travelled to Hawkstone to attend its intensive three-month religious courses, which once brought the building to life.
A New Lease of Life for the Refectory and Accommodation Wing:
In 2018, the new owners of Hawkstone Hall undertook a complete refurbishment of the accommodation wing, breathing new life into a oncetired part of the building. The small, individual bedrooms that once served students were reconfigured into larger, more spacious rooms, each offering high-quality accommodation with modern conveniences and en-suite bathrooms.
The refectory also underwent a remarkable transformation. Once dark and uninviting, it was redesigned as a light and elegant function space. A modern, sympathetic floor replaced the worn original, while French windows were installed to provide direct access to the Hall’s sweeping lawns and gardens. Chandeliers now hang gracefully from the high ceilings, complemented by new drapes, a dedicated dance floor, and a state-of-the-art sound system.
Today, the room has become far more than just an additional option for weddings or celebrations - it now holds deep sentimental value for the many couples who have chosen to begin their married lives here, and for every guest who walks through its doors. Its sensitive restoration has not only given the 1960s wing renewed purpose and character but has also transformed it into a place where memories are made and cherished for a lifetime.
HAWKSTONE HALL'S
On November 2nd, 1556, Sir Rowland Hill purchased the Manor of Hawkstone Hall for just £700. Hawkstone was then in the possession of the famous Shropshire Hill Family for around 340 years.
1556
The house lay empty until 1906 when the 4th Viscount sold the Hall. With the departure of the Hills Mr George Whiteley a liberal M.P. became the new owner of the hall and estate who later raised to the peerage as Baron Marchamley of Hawkstone.
1906
1895
During the late 1800's the Hill family were in financial difficulty and in September 1895 a public auction was held and everything in the house was sold to meet the demands of the family's creditors.
Builders and Craftsman photographed outside front of hall when Lord Marchamley reconstructed the wings by reducing the outer bays and replacing them with apses.
Photograph shows the taxidermy collection which was displayed in the winter garden and sold at the big sale.
The house was embellished by Sir Richard Hill between 1719 and 1725, later remodelled by his nephew who added the wings.
Historical Ownership Timeline
The Hall was purchased in 1926 by the Redemptorists, a Roman Catholic missionary Congregation. By 2012 due to spiraling running costs and a huge decline in students it was decided to put the Hall up for sale. It had been in the ownership of the Church for around 90 years.
1926
1915 2017
Lord Marchamley's wife died in 1913, in 1915 the hall was put up for sale, this was known by locals as The Great Sale. The next owner was Sir Creswell Gray a ship builder from Hartlepool. He purchased Hawkstone for his son who then offered it to the Government of the Day as a convalescent house for wounded officers from the 1914-1918 war. Sir Creswell Gray died in 1924 and in 1925 Hawkstone was put for sale yet again.
During the summer of 2017 the present owners purchased Hawkstone Hall to convert it into a luxurious wedding venue. Most of the work was completed by Christmas 2018 in time for the first wedding. The first year of opening in 2019 was a great success and busy year. The following year in 2020, sadly the hall along with all other hospitality businesses had to close due the Covid Pandemic. Thankfully we are open again and its business as usual.
Painting of Sir Creswell Gray
Photograph from the Grand Opening on 5th April 2019.
Photograph of the Chapel, used by the Roman Catholic missionary Congregation.
A MAGICAL WINTER ESCAPE AWAITS AT HAWKSTONE HALL
As the nights draw in and frost dusts the rolling hills of the Shropshire countryside, Hawkstone Hall & Gardens transforms into a truly enchanting winter retreat. Steeped in histor y and surrounded by ancient trees, this Grade I listed country house offers the ultimate festive escape. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious Christmas break, a memorable event, or simply a cosy winter getaway.
New Year, New You at Hawkstone Hall
january 2026
Hawkstone Hall is inviting guests to start 2026 feeling refreshed and renewed with its exclusive New Year wellness retreat. The two-day, one-night experience promises the perfect blend of relaxation, indulgence and nature-inspired wellbeingideal as a Christmas gift or a last-minute treat.
Guests can indulge in a range of expert-led treatments, including options for relaxation, menopause and mums-to-be. The retreat also features a healthy, nourishing menu - with a little playful indulgence from a secret box of chocolates to treat yourself.
Accommodations are nothing short of luxurious, with beautifully appointed rooms featuring Hypnos® mattresses, Aromatherapy Associates toiletries, and breathtaking views across the estate.
Set against the backdrop of Hawkstone’s serene forest and grounds, the retreat encourages guests to recharge, unwind, and embrace wellness in a tranquil, restorative environment.
The New Year, New You retreat takes place on 5th and 6th January, and further details, including pricing, will be revealed soon on our website and social channels.
Winter Warmer Offer
For those simply seeking a winter escape, the Winter Warmer Package is the perfect opportunity to un-wind in comfort and style.
This special offer includes:
• Overnight accommodation in a Classic, Cosy or Luxury room.
• A three-course dinner in the Saloon Restaurant.
• Full English and continental breakfast the next morning.
Rates from just £230 per room for two guests, with availability starting in October. There is a Bed & Breakfast option also available from £130 per room.
With limited availability across the winter season, early book-ing is strongly recommended.
hawkstone hall & gardens "WHERE EVERY MOMENT FEELS LIKE A CLASSIC CHRISTMAS STORY." s can the qr co D e to explore
