We hope you will find all the information you need about our comfortable self-catering accommodation.
We are Rita and Duncan Baker, your hosts. We have lived here at the Old Vicarage in Lydbury North since 1985 and consider ourselves well versed with your requirements for a peaceful, comfortable, break away from home, or as a very comfortable base, should you be working away from home.
Our manager, Debbie, is on hand to answer any queries or issues you have, and we live on site and are on hand should you need us.
If you have family in our village, Bishops Castle, Clun, or any other local towns or villages, then we have ideal accommodation for you to come and stay with us so you can spend special times together.
We are more than happy to help with any special requirements or we can help you plan your visit here.
We have a vast knowledge of the area and are more than happy to point you in the direction of good food, fabulous walks or interesting activities.
Our village is situated in the South Shropshire Hills, which is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (National Landscape). There are approximately 500 residents here. It is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is an idea base for walkers, hikers and cyclists.
The area is steeped in history. Our village church, St Michaels and All Angels Church, dates back to the 12th century.
We have a community shop run by volunteers and a pub, The Powis Arms, great for a meal out after exploring. It’s only a short stroll away from your accommodation.
Our neighbouring town, Bishops Castle, is a historic market town which received a royal charter for markets in 1249!
We are well placed for easy access to Church Stretton, Clun, Craven Arms and Ludlow, all of which are worth a visit whilst you stay with us.
Church Stretton earned its nickname ‘Little Switzerland’ in the Victorian/Edwardian era due to its deep valleys and steep, dramatic hills. It is a favourite for walkers who can hike along the Long Mynd and Carding Mill Valley.
You will find wild ponies on the Long Mynd, they are managed by local commoners and play a very important part in maintaining the Shropshire Hills landscape. At the top of the Mynd you will find the Midland Gliding Club, where you can purchase a ‘Gliding Experience’. You can also get food and drink at the café there.
Carding Mill Valley is accessible from Church Stretton and you will find parking (payable or free if you are a National Trust member). A tea shop can be found at the entrance. As you walk along the valley you will be met with panoramic views, a waterfall and a reservoir. It is a lovely place to take your furry friends, dogs are welcome on a lead.
Ludlow is just a half hour drive away from the village and hosts its yearly Ludlow Food & Drink Festival in September. It is held within the walls of Ludlow Castle and features over 100 exhibitors. It is a must for you food buffs! https://www.ludlowfoodfestival.co.uk/food
You will also find the famous Ludlow Farmshop just before you get into Ludlow, https://ludlowfarmshop.co.uk/, with fabulous produce to buy to take away or eat there.
One of the oldest racecourses in the country is in Ludlow, you will need to check their website for race days. Get dressed up and place your bets! https://ludlowracecourse.co.uk/
There is so much waiting for you in South Shropshire, we can not wait to keep you updated with local events, so that you can plan your visit.
We hope to host you soon!
Rita & Duncan