House & Family History: Set in remote and beautiful countryside in South Shropshire, Plowden Hall remains to this day the ancient home of the eponymous Plowden family. The Plowdens remained staunch Catholics, even after the Reformation, and, as a consequence, sought to keep a low profile. Their charming timbered house reflects this quiet lifestyle. Originally essentially a hunting lodge, the House has a hall which dates to the 14th century; added to this was a jettied, storied 16th century range on its northern side. Within, the House's interiors contain much paneling and a splendid series of portraits which chart the family's descent. Unsurprising in a house of such an ancient Catholic family, there is not only a private chapel, but also priests' holes. Plowden appears as the fictional Lydiard in the novel "John Inglesant" by Joseph Henry Shorthouse. (We are extremely grateful to Gareth Williams for this history of Plowden).

Garden & Outbuildings: Plowden is today the center of a 3,000-acre estate.

Country Life: CLVII, 318, 1975.

House Listed: Grade II*

Park Listed: Not Listed

Current Seat / Home of: Roger and Helen Plowden; Plowden family here since the 16th century.

Current Ownership Type: Individual / Family Trust

Primary Current Ownership Use: Private Home

House Open to Public: No

Historic Houses Member: No