FEELING ROMANTIC?
Why not enjoy a romantic, 3 night, Valentine’s weekend break, in Walkmill House?
Your break includes 3 nights luxury self-catering accommodation in Walkmill House - a spacious cottage with open log fire and original cast iron roll top bath. In addition to the usual complimentary extras provided you will also receive a bottle of fizz, chocolate dipped Strawberries, scented candles and a luxurious bath soak.
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES FOR A WINTER BREAK AT THE WALKMILL
‘There’s never bad weather in Shropshire,
you’re just wearing the wrong clothes!’
The Walkmill luxury holiday cottage are the perfect place to do nothing – simply chill out and relax. However, if you are feeling a little more energetic we have put together some suggested itineraries to give you an idea of how you could spend a weekend (or longer!) at The Walkmill during January, February and March 2012. These itineraries have been put together by Gilly and Brian Bachelor and are based on their personal recommendations!
THE WALKMILL EX-BATTERY HENS ARRIVE!
Yesterday we collected six ex-battery hens from a farm in Oswestry, our girls have come all the way from Bristol! We are told that they are around 12 month old Warren’s (the breed).
The Walkmill Ex-Battery Hen
STRONG START TO THE YEAR AT THE WALKMILL
We had a very good year at The Walkmill in 2011 booking out 40 weeks in each of our cottages, well above the industry average of around 25-30 weeks per year. This year has started very well. We are only one week into the new year and we have already sold 37 weeks across our two cottages!
Guests are booking early to secure their chosen weeks to avoid disappointment.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO BRING YOUR DOG ON HOLIDAY?
Our dogs – Lily and Lucky – are an important part of our family, and a key consideration when we’re planning a family holiday.I know we are not unusual as over half of our guests staying at The Walkmill bring their pooches with them.
We love dogs at The Walkmill, or should I write pets as we’ve got a house rabbit staying with us later this year!
THE WALKMILL SECURES GOLD AWARD AGAIN!
We are delighted to report that the The Walkmill Luxury Holiday Cottages have been awarded the coveted Visit Britain Gold Award for the second year running. Only a small number of Shropshire’s self-catering properties have achieved this accolade, and only a handful, including The Walkmill, are dog-friendly.
ENJOY COMPLIMENTARY AFTERNOON TEA AT THE WALKMILL
Winter is a wonderful time to visit South Shropshire and now it’s an even better time to stay at The Walkmill as bookings made from 7th November for stays in November, January and February will enjoy a complimentary afternoon tea with homemake cakes, scones and preserves served with tea or freshly-ground coffee.
WINTER BREAKS WITH BREAKFAST
In November, December and January (excl. 22nd Dec to 5th Jan) our guests will be able to experience all of the benefits of staying in a luxury self-catering holiday cottage whilst enjoying a locally sourced home cooked breakfast each morning, from less than £30 per person per night. Read more…
STUNNING VIEWS, FASCINATING GARDENS & HOME-BAKED CAKES!
Wentnor and Norbury Open Gardens
Sunday 29th May and Bank Holiday Monday 30th May, 2pm to 6pm
We are delighted to announce that for TWO AFTERNOONS ONLY locals and visitors alike can enjoy the best of what Shropshire village-life has to offer at the Wentnor & Norbury Open Gardens.
This fantastic event only takes place every two years and presents a wonderful opportunity for visitors to enjoy stunning views of the Shropshire Hills, three fascinating gardens and wonderful home baking.
This year three very different gardens will be open:-
Walkmill Cottage, Wentnor, SY9 5DZ - A beautiful, informal woodland garden set alongside the River East Onny, with feature ornamental pools, rare trees and shrubs shared with the Preston’s collection of rare breed hens.
Fairview, Wentnor, SY9 5EE - A fine example of a classic, structured English flower and vegetable garden, with wonderful views.
Holly Cottage, Prolly Moor, SY9 5EH - Organic garden of over 2 acres including an eight year old broadleaf woodland, wild flower meadow with willow circle allotment area, pond and old orchard. The garden is stocked with herbaceous plants, shrubs and ornamental trees. Plants for sale, parking and toilet facilities available.
Also call in at The Rectory, Wentnor only a short walk from Fairview, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the South Shropshire countryside. Also make sure you do not miss the Plant Stall opposite The Crown Pub.
Before, during or after your garden visits please join us at The Walkmill, Norbury, SY9 5DZ for refreshments - hot and cold drinks and delicious home baked cakes. Parking and toilet facilities available.
This is a fund raising event for Wentnor and Norbury Churches. A two day ticket costs £4 and includes access to all of the open gardens, children under 16 are free. Dogs on leads welcome. Tickets can be purchased on the day from any of the open gardens or from The Walkmill.
ENDS
LATEST AVAILABILITY AT THE WALKMILL
If you are thinking of booking a break at The Walkmill you had better hurry, as we are booking up fast, and we’d hate for you to be disappointed! We have the following weeks available:
Walkmill House - weeks commencing 4th June, 13th August, 22nd and 29th October.
Walkmill Lodge - weeks commencing 4th, 11th and 18th August, 29th September, 20th and 27th October.
If you would like any further information please don’t hesitate to call Gilly Bachelor on 01588 650 737.
SHROPSHIRE BUSINESS AWARDS FINALISTS
We are delighted to report that we are one of four businesses to be selected as finalists in the category of Tourism & Leisure Business of the year.
We eagerly await the arrival of the three judges, they can be assured of a hearty ‘Walkmill Welcome’!
Winners will be announced at the Shropshire Business Awards black-tie gala evening on June 3, at Telford International Centre.
DOG WALKER REQUIRED!
We require a fit, reliable dog-lover to walk our dogs during the day. We have a grumpy 13-year old Westie (Lucky) and a bouncy, loving Working Cocker Spaniel (Lily) who need to be exercised whilst we are out at work during the day.
We require someone for one hour per day, between 12 and 2pm four days per week (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Fridays).
If you are interested please call Gilly Bachelor on 01588 650 737 or email enquiries@thewalkmill.co.uk
JOB VACANCY
WALKMILL LUXURY HOLIDAY COTTAGES, NORBURY, SHROPSHIRE. SY9 5DZ
REQUIRED
Reliable, trust-worthy person with exceptionally high quality cleaning standards and attention to detail required to changeover two luxury holiday cottages. Each cottage has two bedrooms and two bathrooms.
SUCCESSFUL OPEN DAY AT THE WALKMILL
We are delighted to report that over 50 visitors attended our ‘Open Afternoon’ held on Saturday 5th March. Visitors enjoyed a tour of our holiday cottages followed by complimentary home-baked cakes, all made with free range eggs from ‘The Walkmill’ hens.
NEW RARE BREED HENS AT THE WALKMILL
We are delighted to announce that we now have ten rare breed hens at The Walkmill. Sadly we have lost several hens over the past few months, so we are pleased to welcome six new additions!
ALL WELCOME AT THE WALKMILL AWARD WINNING HOLIDAY COTTAGES!
Every year Gilly, Brian Bachelor & family host an open afternoon at The Walkmill in Norbury, Shropshire. Inviting locals and visitors to come along and to see firsthand what their award winning cottages have to offer.
THE WALKMILL WINS VISIT BRITAIN GOLD AWARD
The Walkmill Luxury Holiday Cottages based in Norbury, six miles from Bishops Castle, have been awarded the coveted Visit Britain Gold Award. Only a small number of Shropshire’s self-catering properties have achieved this accolade, and only a handful, including The Walkmill, are dog-friendly.
WALKMILL GUESTS ENJOY HOMEMADE PRESERVES
All guests staying at The Walkmill in 2011 will receive a homemade jar of preserve with our compliments.
Over the passed few days Gilly has been busy making Medium and Coarse Cut Seville Marmarlade. The first results have got the ‘thumbs up’, from her husband, Brian, who has been spreading it very generously on his toast - at breakfast and lunch time!
LILY PASSES HER PUPPY FOUNDATION CERTIFICATE
Lily with her Puppy Foundation Certificate
We are delighted to announce Lily, our Working Cocker Spaniel, has passed the Kennel Club’s Puppy Foundation Assessment.
THE WALKMILL WINS TOURISM EXCELLENCE AWARD
We are delighted to announce that we have won a ‘Highly Commended Award’ for Self Catering Holiday of the Year, in the 2010 Heart of England Excellence in Tourism Awards.
The Walkmill Wins Highly Commended At Excellence In Tourism Awards
At a glittering award ceremony held at the Great Hall, University of Birmingham, Bob Warman from Central TV News presented us with our award. In the photograph (from left to right) Philip Bachelor, Brian Bachelor, Gilly Bachelor, Bob Warman, Jessica Bachelor, Stuart Bachelor and Paul Bachelor.
On receiving the award Gilly Bachelor said “this is a real family venture. The ‘Bachelors’ work very hard to ensure guests have a wonderful holiday in Shropshire - we are all delighted that our efforts have been rewarded! We absolutely love living in Shropshire, and were keen to showcase all that this area has to offer. It seemed like the perfect location for a holiday property, as there is something to do, and stunning views, 52 weeks of the year. I am thrilled and honoured that The Walkmill has secured this prestigious award; it makes all the hard work and energy that we have put into making these properties an ideal holiday getaway worthwhile.”
We put our success down to the beautiful location of the cottage, the varied facilities on offer and excellent customer service we provide to all of our guests.
The Walkmill luxury self-catering holiday cottages are located in beautiful South Shropshire. We welcome dogs and are perfectly located for walking and cycling and for visiting Bishops Castle, Shrewsbury and Ludlow. If you require any further information please contact Gilly Bachelor at enquiries@thewalkmill.co.uk or call on 01588 650 737.
THE WALKMILL IS A FINALIST FOR SELF-CATERING HOLIDAY OF THE YEAR!
Shortlisted earlier this year, The Walkmill is now delighted to announce that it is a finalist for Self-Catering Holiday of the year in the Heart of England Excellence In Tourism Awards. The winners will be announced at a glittering event in Birmingham on 21st October 2010.
The Walkmill luxury self-catering holiday cottages are located in beautiful South Shropshire. We welcome dogs and are perfectly located for walking and cycling and for visiting Bishops Castle, Shrewsbury and Ludlow. If you require any further information please contact Gilly Bachelor at enquiries@thewalkmill.co.uk or call on 01588 650 737.
The Walkmill Meets The Hairy Bikers!
Hairy Bikers with Gilly Bachelor & Rita Preston
The Walkmill was delighted to sponsor the Shrewsbury Flower Show and to get the wonderful opportunity to meet the Hairy Bikers.
The Walkmill Sponsors Wentnor Village Fete Dog Show
The Walkmill is delighted to sponsor the Wentnor Village Church Fete Dog Show which will take place on the afternoon of Monday 30th August 2010. Further details of the Dog Show and how to enter will be available shortly.
The Walkmill is delighted to promote The Gallery
The Gallery is a wonderful shop in Bishops Castle that stocks glass, ceramics, metal and wood textiles, paintings, prints and jewellery many of them created by local craftsmen.
The Gallery is owned and run by artist Jacs Collins. Jacs has very kindly donated two thick glossy guide books (one for each cottage!) created by Country Living Magazine which introduce the reader to recommended places to visit, walks and local shops.
Ends
The Walkmill luxury self-catering holiday cottages are located in beautiful South Shropshire. We welcome dogs and are perfectly located for walking and cycling and for visiting Bishops Castle, Shrewsbury and Ludlow. If you require any further information please contact Gilly Bachelor at enquiries@thewalkmill.co.uk or call on 01588 650 737.
The Walkmill Supports Wasteless Society
From 14th August 2010 guests staying at The Walkmill will find a reusable shopping bag made from recycled materials in their holiday cottage. The shopping bags were purchased from Bishop’s Castle’s Wasteless Society at a very modest £1 each with the proceeds contributing to the fund to renovate the Town Hall.
We will be encouraging our guests to use these bags instead of plastic ones as part of our Green Policy.
For more information about the Wasteless Society visit www.wasteless.org.uk
Ends
The Walkmill luxury self-catering holiday cottages are located in beautiful South Shropshire. We welcome dogs and are perfectly located for walking and cycling and for visiting Bishops Castle, Shrewsbury and Ludlow. If you require any further information please contact Gilly Bachelor at enquiries@thewalkmill.co.uk or call on 01588 650 737.
The Walkmill Shortlisted For Self-Catering Holiday Of The Year
The best of the Heart of England’s tourism providers have been announced today as the shortlist for the Heart of England Excellence in Tourism Awards 2010 is revealed. Read more…
The Walkmill Strives for Greater Accessibility For All!
We are committed to making The Walkmill as accessible to all as possible.
Our latest Access Statement (updated in June 2010) is below. This statement is designed to enable our guests, prior to booking, to make an informed decision as to whether our accommodation will meet their needs.
The Walkmill is Going Green!
At The Walkmill we are committed to reducing our carbon emissions and to reducing waste. To demonstrate our commitment we have developed a ‘Green Policy’ which we now share with our guests. We have also applied to be a member of the Green Tourism Business Scheme, and are committed to being formally assessed (and graded) by the end of 2010. In the meantime we will endeavour to adhere to continuous good environmental practice and the sustainable development of our business.
The Walkmill Promotes Local Artist
From 22nd July 2010 guests staying at The Walkmill will be able to buy a stunning range of greeting cards, hand finished and individually signed by local Artist and Illustrator ‘Bird’ Diane Williams.
Please Welcome Lily and Freddie to The Walkmill
Lily in Motion!
Today (Sunday 11th July2010) Lily and Freddie arrived at The Walkmill.
Freddie posing for the camera
Free Beer … with a catch!
The Walkmill has teamed up with its local pub to offer guests a free pint of local brew … but what’s the catch?
New Director joins the Shropshire Tourism Board
Members of Shropshire Tourism’s 600 strong membership base elected a new Director to join the Board at the company’s AGM last week. Gilly Bachelor, a highly regarded marketer, will take on the Director seat with responsibility for marketing, communication and membership.
Closure of Walkmill Bridge
Walkmill Bridge, where The Walkmill is located, has closed today (22nd February 2010) for urgent repairs following accident damage. The Bridge is expected to be closed for up to four weeks.
Refurbishment of Walkmill House
Just before Christmas a burst pipe in Walkmill House resulted in the shower room and dining room ceilings requiring replacement. These repairs are now well underway and Walkmill House will be welcoming guests from 27th March 2010.
Christmas & New Year At The Walkmill
Walkmill House and Walkmill Lodge are available over the Christmas and New Year period.
The Christmas break runs from Wednesday 23rd December for 7 nights, with the New Year break running from Wednesday 30th December for 7 nights.
Gilly and Phil Perfect The Walkmill Cupcake!
Gilly and Phil Bachelor are delighted to report that after several failed attempts they can confirm that they have created, argueably, the best cupcake in Shropshire!
On hearing the news that they had secured their first order for 70 cupcakes Phil, an Apprentice Volkswagen Technician, by day said ‘It was quite a challenge perfecting the recipe, based on a lemon drizzle cake, with the icing requiring a steady hand, but I am delighted that after all our hard work the orders have started to roll in’.
A Tribute To Max
Today Max received his final send off as his ashes were scattered over his favourite flower bed. Barry and Rita Preston from Walkmill Cottage also attended and Barry read a poem he had written and dedicated to Max.
If You Ever Needed An Excuse To Visit The Walkmill
The Walkmill is ideally located for walking, cycling, horse-riding, golfing and gliding or simply relaxing. It is also perfectly located for you to enjoy some wonderful local Events.
Sadness at The Walkmill as Max Passes Away
Yesterday (Saturday 21st February 2009) Max Bachelor our 14 year old Golden Retriever passed away. Max was much loved and will be sadly missed. Though visitors with sandwiches will be safe once more!
Max in the Undergrowth
We’re EGGstatic at The Walkmill
Today (Saturday 24th January 2009) The Walkmill welcomed some new arrivals - five rare breed hens from the Wernlas collection. The five hens - Buffy, Elvee, Maisey, Harriet and Dotty will provide guests at The Walkmill with a complimentary supply of fresh eggs - subject to availability!
The Walkmill Hens providing our guests with complimentary fresh eggs
UPDATE - Friday 30th January - Egg production has started and we’ve had 5 eggs this week we think all from Dotty but we’re not 100% sure. We’ve enjoyed the best scrambled eggs ever!
Enjoy A Romantic Valentine’s Break At The Walkmill
If you are a feeling in the mood for romance The Walkmill is the perfect location. Enjoy the peace, quiet and seclusion of The Walkmill and cuddle up with your loved one in front of a cosy log fire. Enjoy pink sparkling wine and chocolate covered strawberries with our compliments.
Does The Walkmill Meet Your Particular Access Needs?
The Walkmill has launched the first draft of its Access Statement - an honest description of the current facilities and service we offer - to enable potential guests to make an informed decision as to whether The Walkmill meets thier particular access needs.
Families Are Welcome At The Walkmill
Enjoy a perfect family holiday in beautiful rural Shropshire
The Walkmill Encourages Guests To Leave Their Car At Home!
The Walkmill provides comprehensive facilities for guests who arrive by public transport or pedal power.
The Walkmill Goes for Grading
On Wednesday 5th November The Walkmill is being assessed by Visit Britain for its official grading. This week some very lucky guests are enjoying a complimentary week’s stay to test out the new facilities to ensure that everything is just right for paying guests. Gilly and Brian are determined to offer the very best in luxury cottage holiday’s.
The Official Re-opening of The Walkmill
On Sunday 26th October The Walkmill officially reopened to guests. To celebrate this landmark event over 30 people attended a Champagne Afternoon tea hosted in the newly refurbished Walkmill Lodge. Guests were impressed by the quality of the build and the fittings … and of course the scones with jam and cream!
Official Opening of The Walkmill
Gilly and Brian are hosting a Champagne Afternoon Tea on Sunday 26th October to officially re-open The Walkmill to guests. Please call/email for an invite.
Champagne Offer
Book prior to 31st December 2008 and enjoy a complimentary bottle of Champagne on arrival. Could there be any better way to start your holiday?
The Walkmill website goes live!
The new walkmill website has now gone live and is full of wonderful information about The Walkmill and the local area. Read more…
