8. Book of hours
This exquisite 15th-century illuminated book of hours belonged to Lady Eleanor Percy and was used for private prayer and devotion. It is one of the finest examples of an illuminated manuscript in the care of the National Trust. Evidence suggests that there would have been a family chapel hidden away in the castle as Catholicism was illegal during the late 16th centur
9. Old Parr
This portrait is of ‘Old Parr’, a local hero. He was a Shropshire farm labourer who was born in 1483, and lived on a simple diet of buttermilk, bread, onions and green cheese. He became an object of curiosity in 1635 when he was taken to London to meet King Charles I. Whilst there he was treated to lavish parties, indulgent food and alcohol which apparently didn’t suit him, as he died two weeks later, reputedly aged 152!
10. The State Coach
Our State Coach was originally kept at the family’s London home for ceremonial occasions and court functions. The coach was used in 1914, to take Violet Powis, and her husband George, 4th Earl of Powis, to a State Ball at Buckingham Palace. Violet described how stringent checks were in place at the event to prevent suffragettes getting in, but the yellow Powis coach was immediately recognised and granted admittance without being searched.
Discover more
We have many more fascinating objects, each with a fascinating story to tell. Visit us and you’ll be amazed at what you might find.