The history of Cronkhill on the Attingham Estate

This is a historic black and white photograph showing two women standing in front of a large, elegant house. The building features a rounded tower on the right, arched windows, and a balcony with balustrades. Below the balcony are a series of arches, forming an open gallery or veranda. The women are dressed in early 20th-century attire, wearing long skirts and hats. They are standing on a grassy lawn, with trees visible in the background. The house is surrounded by greenery, and the overall scene conveys a peaceful, historical setting. — Historic image of 8th Lady Berwick and sister at Cronkhill | © National Trust Archive

From a generous gesture for a friend to a family bolt hole, take a look at the changing purpose of this Italianate Villa.

Building Cronkhill House at Attingham

Cronkhill was built for Francis Walford, a friend and agent of the 2nd Lord Berwick, who lived in the mansion at nearby Attingham Park.

It was designed by John Nash, the renowned architect behind many famous landmarks such as Regent Street in London and Brighton Pavilion. Nash also designed the Picture Gallery in the mansion at Attingham Park.

Walford leaves Cronkhill

Walford took residency at Cronkhill in 1806. However, in a letter from 1828 Lord Berwick complained of Walford’s neglect of duty.

Their relationship seems to have turned sour and Walford eventually left both Cronkhill and the service of Lord Berwick.

The Berwick family

Following Walford’s residency, Cronkhill was mainly occupied by members of the Berwick family. It offered a more modest home for them, with Attingham either being closed up, or tenanted during this time.

Cronkhill’s most notable resident was the 5th Lord Berwick, who kept a prize-winning herd of Hereford cattle there. He also named his innovative ‘Cronkhill Rifle’ after the house.

Cronkhill today

In the 1900s, the 8th Lord and Lady Berwick returned to live at the Attingham estate. They lived at Cronkhill before moving into Attingham Hall in the 1920s.

Today, Cronkhill is privately let and is open on a small number of selected dates during the year.

Discover more at Attingham

Find out when Attingham Park is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

Plan your visit

A visitor stands outside the entrance of a historic house, greeted by a smiling staff member. The staff member wears a dark uniform with a lanyard and badges, while the visitor is casually dressed in a light blue shirt and gray pants. The entrance features a large arched doorway with an ornate fanlight window above and a hanging lantern. A sign near the door reads "House Open," indicating that the location is welcoming guests inside.

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