Join Lou Hall, Site Manager of Sunnycroft in Shropshire, as she takes you on a tour of this rare surviving gentleman's villa. It’s remained in its original state for generations and is now cared for by the National Trust. The house tells a story of history, with all its features having remained unchanged since 1899, including the conservatory.
 
Because of its significance - it's one of around three left of its kind - specialists from the National Trust decided to restore the Halliday conservatory. It's undergone an extensive amount of restoration, and Lou will show you the decisions and plans that were made in order to care for this historic structure.
 
The conservatory, when originally built, was a statement of design and horticultural excellence. It
was a key part of the additions and improvements that were made right at the end of the 19th century by aspirational owner, Mary Jane Slaney, who was the widow of a successful wine and spirit merchant in Wellington. 
 
Sunnycroft was built in 1880, and belonged to the Lander family until it was gifted to the National Trust in 1997. It's a miniature version of a grand estate of its time, built to emulate the style and grandeur but on a smaller scale and middle-class budget. The late Victorian villa is now cared for by National Trust experts to conserve this piece of history. Highlights from the collection there include beautiful embroideries, the family medicine cabinet complete with original contents and other items of 20th century domesticity such as a ceramic tea set dating from around 1910-20.
 
It's thanks to members and supporters that the National Trust can continue to care for historic houses, buildings and objects in this way for the enjoyment of generations to come.
We protect and care for places so people and nature can thrive. Everyone can get involved, everyone can make a difference. Nature, beauty, history. For everyone, for ever. You can donate to us at www.nationaltr...
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