Snowshill Manor sits at the head of a Cotswold valley and has a long history. It was first recorded in 821 AD when the king of Mercia gave it to Winchcomb Abbey and was, at one time, given to Catherine Parr in a dowry by Henry VIII.
The purpose of my visit was to view a lifetimes collection of a not so regal occupant, Charles Wade. The aforementioned fellow bought the Manor in 1919 and restored it in order that anyone with an interest in design and craftsmanship could marvel at and learn from his collection and what a collection it is. The 20 roomed Manor house is packed full to the attic ceilings with anything and everything that you could possible imagine. Every craft is represented within Snowshill's walls , there really is something for everyone and more ....... in fact the staggering number of items is overwhelming. Interesting for me was a collection of instruments which included two French horns , one of which had a bell shaped like the head of a serpent probably waiting to bit the hand off its player !!
For the textile enthusiast there was much to see. The collections of period clothing, hats, shoes and purses is one of the largest in the world , not all of it on display but enough to inspire. My favourite item..... difficult......but probably an embroidered jewelry box ....... beautiful !!!!
Snowshill manor is a busy place and alot of people crowd through the rooms, but the gardens offer a place of peace and tranquility...........
and the vegetable garden is immaculate - not a chewed cabbage leaf in sight !
For the children an attic room full of handcrafted toys, swords, armour and the chance to be a real life Samurai warrior !
