Decade of Atonement at Ludlow stately home
A stately home will be opening its doors to mark 10 years since Hollywood stars and film crews came to stay.
The filming of Atonement made Stokesay Court, between Ludlow and Craven Arms, a famous movie location, with star Keira Knightly reported to have taken jaunts into Ludlow during filming.
On September 3 visitors will be able to explore the grounds and parts of the house where so much of the action in the film took place.
The charity open day is to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK Shropshire and Signal, a charity which helps to build deaf-friendly communities.
Since 2007 there has been a steady stream of visitors to Stokesay Court, who have enjoyed tours of the house and grounds, often guided by the owner Caroline Magnus.
She said: "The magnificent Grade II* listed mansion was completed in 1892 and is located in the mature landscaped grounds of an older house.
"The film makers of Atonement made good use of these and visitors will be able to view the grotto, fountain, lake, stream and lawns which all feature prominently in the film.
"Two key parts of the film location inside the house can also be seen. The great hall with its superb wooden panelling will have an exhibition of Atonement related artefacts and there will be tea and cake available in the dining room."
Visitors who wish to see more of the house can book a short Atonement tour to see some of the bedrooms, the statue from the fountain in the film, the billiard room and the drawing room for an additional fee to the main admission price.
The film was an adaptation of Ian McEwan’s best-selling novel, set in 1935, which tells the story of a young girl’s false accusation which has far reaching repercussions for those involved.
Newcomer Saoirse Ronan was nominated for an Oscar for her part as the accuser Briony Tallis, just one of the seven nominations the film received.
Other significant roles were played by James McAvoy, Keira Knightley, Benedict Cumberbatch, Juno Temple and Brenda Blethyn. The film, directed by Joe Wright, went on to make $129 million all over the world and won the BAFTA award for Best Film.
Tickets are now on sale online via the Stokesay Court website at stokesaycourt.com/whats-on.
General admission tickets are also available from Ludlow Assembly Rooms, Shrewsbury Visitor Information Centre or The Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre at Craven Arms.
