LOVERRS of stately homes have a new attraction to look forward to this week, with tours returning to Hawkstone Hall.

From Monday, May 17, the doors of Hawkstone Hall, near Wem, are open to the public once again, with audio tours on offer from the end of the month.

The firm that has produced the audio tour has also provided tours for Buckingham Palace, and this will be the first time the Hall has been able to offer a narrated experience.

A spokesman for Hawkstone Hall explained.

They said: "Provided by ATS-Heritage – creator of audio tours for Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Highclere Castle and the National Portrait Gallery – the 45-minute guided audio tour will take in every element of the magnificent 88-acre Shropshire estate centred around a beautiful Grade I listed 18th century mansion, with a total of 20 stops.

"Guests will be enlightened of the Hall’s history dating back to 1701, with insights from the current owners and staff that have worked at the hall over the years.

"Guests of the 37-bedroom hotel or visitors to one of the two restaurants can enjoy the audio tour at no extra cost, with pre-booking recommended.

"Members of the public, including accompanied children, can take part in the experience for £11.95 per person, which includes a tea/coffee or soft drink and cake bites.

"This is the first time in the history of the property that the public will be offered an expert-guided tour of one of Britain’s finest, privately-owned country estates.

For more information, visit www.hawkstonehall.co.uk or call 01630 685242.