Mellington Hall Country House Hotel

Mellington Hall, situated in Churchstoke, was built in 1876 as an opulent country manor owned by the Wright family. The Wrights were wealthy and influential, known for their successful coal mining and iron foundry industries in Derbyshire. They commissioned the architect Evan Powell to replace an earlier house on the estate, which had existed since the 17th century. Surrounding the manor is parkland with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside and now adorned with various sculptures.

A century later, however, Mellington Hall was in decline and disarray. A man named Jack Evans purchased the estate in 1959, intending to use it as a reserve for wild game, rabbits, and eggs. He struck upon the idea of opening the estate as a holiday park, using the profit to restore and maintain the property. Along the way, he also planted numerous saplings around the estate, which have since grown into tall trees. Today, the Hall is owned by Alistair and Claire Evans, who continue Jack's stewardship and restoration of the land and manor.

Since Mellington Hall was constructed during the Victorian Era, it features a Gothic style popular during the time. The structure consists of rock masonry and sandstone dressings, topped with slate roofs with projecting gables. Adorning the facade are ornate windows and stern towers, creating an atmosphere that blends rural opulence with medieval rustic charms. Aside from the manor itself, the estate also includes a service block with stables, as well as various towers. Put together, the ensemble creates a deeply historic ambiance that justifies Mellington Hall's status as a Grade II listed building.

Its interior retains much of its original layout and fittings, including the oak paneling and carved doorframes. Though the guestrooms embrace a contemporary approach in aesthetics, old characteristics have been integrated flawlessly, creating a sleek yet warm, homey ambiance. The hotel also has not neglected guests with accessibility needs, and has ensured that facilities and spaces are also wheelchair-friendly.

Mellington Hall features a signature restaurant that serves a wide range of dining options, open from Wednesday to Sunday. Their à la carte options include daily soups, homemade pies, curries, and pastas. Kids can also enjoy tasty treats suited to their developing palates, such as burgers, linguini, and pizza.

The restaurant also has special offers available on specific days. Wednesday Specials involve a pint paired with pie, curry, or a burger. Thursdays are for pizzas, with toppings options like smoked salmon, prosciutto, and garlic mushrooms. Fish & Fizz Fridays are all about traditional British fish & chips, served with a glass of delectable Prosecco. Come Saturday, you can enjoy a romantic evening with steak and red wine. Last but not least, Sundays are dedicated to the ever-loved tradition of Sunday Roasts, featuring hearty portions of beef topside, pork loin, chicken, or salmon.

Afternoon Tea

The Afternoon Tea service at Mellington Hall is one you shouldn't miss. Not only will you be treated to fantastic tea blends from around the world, you'll also be served decadent desserts and savory sandwiches made with the region's finest ingredients.

Availability: Wednesday to Saturday: 12 pm – 3:30 pm

If you're in search of a beautiful setting for your destination wedding, Mellington Hall also offers its wonderful venues and accommodations to loving couples looking to tie the knot. Your special day will be in good hands as their experienced events team handles a wide range of functions, which include weddings. Aside from the venue itself, you can also count on the hotel's partners should you need additional services to celebrate your Happily Ever After.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Surrounding Mellington Hall are the various gems of Powys, such as picturesque towns, historic villages, as well as estates and castles of Welsh lords. Montgomery, for example, is home to the ruins of Montgomery Castle and vibrant weekly farmers’ markets. Bishop’s Castle is another nearby community, offering plenty of shops, traditional pubs, and a local brewery with tours and samples. Craven Arms is a bit further away, but still shouldn't be missed because of Stokesay Castle and the Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre.

For regional highlights, travelers will also have plenty of options when it comes to cultural and outdoor attractions. Castell Powys, near Welshpool, is a grandiose medieval fortress with stunning gardens cared for by the National Trust. Outdoor enthusiasts might also enjoy exploring the area's hills and woodlands. The Long Mynd is famed for majestic views, while Walcot Wood and the RSPB nature reserves are perfect for wildlife watching excursions.

Mellington Hall is a fantastic choice for your personal and corporate functions, offering beautiful venues and assistance from its experienced events staff. The hotel accommodates gatherings of up to 40 guests or attendees, and also provides equipment rentals, along with add-ons such as meals and accommodations. Apart from business functions, Mellington Hall gladly welcomes automobile clubs looking for a place to gather and spend a lovely day talking about their beloved machines.