Join the stately set

By Sally Shalam, Evening Standard

Last updated at 10:36 18 December 2002


Avoid self-catering brochures which show a magnificent stately pile then offer you a poky cottage in the grounds, and hotels in historic buildings whose interiors have been cruelly converted into brand mediocrity. Here are some grand properties which won't shatter the illusion that you are really lord of the manor...

The Landmark Trust (tel: 01628 825925), which rescues historic buildings, has a blow-you-away selection of bricks and mortar, from castle gatehouses to temples. Monkton Old Hall in Pembroke dates back to medieval times but had been left to ruin twice before repair in the 1930s with help from Clough Williams-Ellis. The lofty and noble hall became the scene of legendary Christmas parties and there are grandstand views of Pembroke Castle. From 10 January, three-night winter weekend rate £459, sleeps seven.

Belle Isle Castle on Loch Erne, Co Fermanagh, is still owned by a duke, has 920 paintings on its 18th century walls (new decor David Hicks) and takes a two-room, two-night minimum booking. From £100pp per night through Tailormade Ireland (tel: 020 7351 5331, www.tailormade-ireland.com) which can customise a package.

The Temple in Shropshire isn't the main house (that's Badger Hall), but this classical folly is no also-ran. Approached via a tree-lined carriageway, it's a cosy yet elegant bolt hole for two. A colonnaded balcony affords views over wooded ravines. From 7 January, four nights cost £320 through Vivat Trust (tel: 0845 090 0194) which offers four nights for the price of three in January and February.

Blandings (tel: 020 7947 3290) has several baronial piles including the home of a Scots earl, Birkhill, on an estate on the Tay Estuary complete with pebble beach, tennis court, woodland and rhododendron garden. Ten bedrooms, ditto bathrooms, billiard room, tower room with grand piano. Around £12,000 per week.

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