HI - YHA Wilderhope Manor Hostel

HI - YHA Wilderhope Manor Hostel is just that, a sixteenth century Elizabethan manor house set against rolling green and forest. Located in Shropshire, this hostel tests the limits of a good map, a keen driver, and local knowledge as to its actual location. It isn't easy to find. However, once found, the hostel lends itself to romantic ideas of BBC dramas and the like. The friendly staff, spacious rooms, and well-prepared (paid) breakfast makes Wilderhope a go-to retreat for anyone looking to escape any sense of urbanization.

The Location

Longville in the Dale isn't much on any map, and it's better to say Shropshire if one were asking for directions, which you'll eventually do! There are few if any landmarks to guide a first-time traveler, and we stopped on many occasions at pubs, chip shops, and random strangers to ask for directions. Only the eldest of sages knew of Longville in the Dale, and most had absolutely no clue to its whereabouts, though they did know of nearby Shrewsbury (Darwin's birthplace). Driving is essential as there is only one bus that operates once a week. Beyond getting there, Longville in the Dale is a sprawl of wide-open countryside meadows, tree-lined passages, and occasional wildlife. It is far removed and isolated from any real civilization.

Rooms and Bathrooms

Dorm rooms are mixed-sex double-bunks -- clean, comfortable, and well-lit. Large and spacious, most rooms have exceptional views over the rolling green pastures. The dorm rooms remain unlocked throughout the day and there are no lockers. Bathrooms are clean and showers are hot with good pressure -- though rather small (privacy may become an issue when the hostel is at capacity). Be warned, dorm rooms are not wheelchair accessible and climbing the large spiral staircase may be difficult for those with limited mobility.

Common Spaces

Sparse is the word to describe the common spaces. This is mostly due to the property belonging to the National Trust, which prohibits alteration inclusive of decoration of the manor house. This means walls are bare and rooms seem rather empty. There are a few common reading rooms, but not very sociable places. There are no televisions (or television room), computers, or internet access.

There is no self-catering kitchen, though the dining area is spacious and clean. The dining rooms is where most socializing takes place, and breakfast is well worth the additional fee, consisting of a proper cooked-to-order full English -- eggs, bacon, sausage, ham, hash browns, baked beans, roasted tomatoes, cereal, oatmeal, fruit, toast, croissants, cheese, coffee, tea, milk, and juice.

Summary

It's not luxury, it's not easy to find, it's rather drab and empty, but the historical building, idyllic beauty, and friendly staff certain breath life into this well restored Elizabethan manor house. Wilderhope is an escape from the rush and runaround of urban living. Whether taking a light stroll through the woods and pastures, enjoying some self-organized recreation or spending time with a good read, Wilderhope is sure to accommodate those lazy days. This is not the place for anyone looking for active nightlife but rather a retreat, perfect for group outings and social occasions (reunions/weddings), as well as a place of meditation and self-reflection.