We stayed at Crockerton House, with a Grade ll listed status, on our way back from a visit to Bristol in late November. Upon arrival, we received a warm welcome as well a lovely hot cup of tea and home-made shortbread. Christopher and Enid are the proprietors of this charming, stylish and historic house, having had many years of experience of running an hotel in Devon before moving to Wiltshire.
The house, in it's one and a half acres, is set back from a fairly busy road, although this doesn't interfere with the tranquillity of the place. A beautifully large, well kept lawn at the front of the house with it's stepping stones to the entrance, enhances the setting.
We had the Heytesbury suite, with it's large, delightful room and own corridor, bathroom and separate toilet. Tea facilities were available, with fresh milk! We had views of both the front and back gardens. The king sized bed was really comfortable and we had a great nights sleep. In the morning we had a delicious breakfast, with fresh apple juice from the orchard. The food is mainly organic and locally sourced.
We were able to look around the back, kitchen garden, and in particular, to have a look around the old 19th century stable at the bottom of the garden which has been cleverly and tastefully converted into a holiday stay cottage with a wonderful view overlooking the countryside. This can now be rented and would be ideal for any season of the year. It has original features including the roof beams which were sandblasted to give a new, fresh look. It has a well fitted kitchen and lounge area with a wood burner for when the weather gets colder. There is a good sized bedroom with a large bed and wet room facilities. Just the place to unwind and enjoy the peace of the countryside and the surrounding attractions it has to offer.
Situated in the Wylye Valley, Crockerton is an ideal centre for exploring Wiltshire, Somerset and Dorset. It is only a couple of miles from Warminster and 4 from Longleat. The village of Crockerton gets it's name from when it produced pottery. From the 15th century to 1894 it had a cloth mill, which later changed to silk. It has quite a few listed buildings, including two chapels and a church.
Crockerton House itself dates back to 1669 when it was part of the Marquess of Bath's, Longleat Estate. In 1707 it was leased to Thomas Croome, a Wool Stapler when the annual rent at that time was 5 shillings and eight pence, one capon and six chickens. It then passed on through various people and in 1915 a photo of Belgian refugees can be seen in residence. In 1919 , Lt. K. Mountstephen Wills of 2nd Battalion, Australian Imperil Forces was there. The property at that time was known as 'The Green House,' at which time six months rent cost £40. The interesting history goes on, until November 2005, when the property was sold to the present owners, Christopher and Enid Richmond. In 2007 it opened as a bed and breakfast after 12 months restoration.
I would certainly not hesitate to recommended stay at Crockerton House.
