Beyond Bonkers visits National Trust Shugborough Hall & Estate

Nestled on the edge of Cannock Chase in Staffordshire, the Shugborough Estate offers a complete picture of 18th-century country house living. Former home to the Anson family—including the naval hero Admiral George Anson and the celebrated 1960s society photographer Lord Lichfield—the estate combines grand aristocratic heritage. ​The Mansion House ​At the heart of the estate stands the neoclassical mansion. Inside, you move through grand reception rooms filled with gilded plasterwork, rare fine art, and naval treasures amassed during Admiral Anson's circumnavigation of the globe. The upper floor houses the private Lichfield Apartments, where modern mid-century style meets traditional luxury. These rooms display original fashion photography, royal portraits, and personal mementos from Lord Lichfield’s life as a royal photographer. Sorry I was not allowed to film or take photos but it's really worth a mooch around. ​The Servants' Quarters & Working Estate ​Unlike many stately homes where the domestic side is hidden away, Shugborough’s Servants' Quarters form one of the most complete surviving working complexes in the UK. ​The Kitchens & Scullery: Preserved with copper cookware, massive hearths, and original prep equipment. ​The Laundry & Brewhouse: Highlights the hard physical labor required to run the house, complete with iron-heating stoves and wooden wash tubs. ​Servants' Hall: Features displays that list actual 19th-century staff names, ages, and wages, offering a vivid window into life "below stairs." ​Formal Gardens & The River Sow ​The house sits on the banks of the River Sow, near where it meets the River Trent. The surrounding grounds seamlessly blend structured design with flowing water features: ​Formal Terraces: Gardens filled with seasonal blooms and tailored box hedges framing views of the river. ​Riverside Walks: Pathways run directly along the water's edge, leading past sweeping weeping willows, historic stone bridges, and tranquil fishing spots. ​The Tower of the Winds ​Scattered throughout the parkland are various neoclassical monuments inspired by ancient Greek architecture. The most iconic is the Tower of the Winds, an octagonal tower standing directly in the water at the river's edge. Designed in the 18th century by James "Athenian" Stuart, it served as a banqueting house and visual focal point across the river. Shugborough Hall and estate milford Stafford ST17 0UP Prices whole property £18.00 adults Children5-7 £9.00 under 5 free Check National Trust for opening times #nationaltrust #shugboroughestate #navyhistory