The new film Atonement which comes out this week and stars Keira Knightley and James McAvoy is partially set in British countryside of 1935. The New York Times had an interesting article this week about the Shropshire Mansion “Stokesay” that was used as the setting for part of the movie. This late 1800’s foreboding Victorian manse is owned by Caroline Magnus, who, along with her brother, unexpectedly inherited the estate fifteen years ago from an elderly aunt. Although she was single (40 at the time), living in London with friends, a boyfriend and a budding career in counseling, she decided to give it all up to move in and take care of the old place.
Jonathan Player for the New York Times
While she managed to scrape together money over the years to put on a new roof, upgrade the electrical and much of the plumbing, the interior decor was lacking. Part of the reason was because she was forced to auction off much of the contents to pay for everything. She was actually hoping that a movie or tv crew might find the estate interesting, and so they did.
Jonathan Player for the New York Times
Jonathan Player for the New York Times
Movie still photography by Alex Bailey
Jonathan Player for the New York Times
Jonathan Player for the New York Times
Movie still photography by Alex Bailey
Jonathan Player for the New York Times
Jonathan Player for the New York Times
I’m definitely looking forward to seeing Atonement!
ETA: Visit Stokesay’s website here for more photos.
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Heck, I’d give up the boyfriend and London too if I inherited this place. Simply fabulous.
This is a really great story. It’s amazing that now due to a stroke of luck paired with the wonderful character of this place that it will be able to remain in it’s prime condition.
What a great post! Just saw the movie last night, and I loved it, although I was a sobbing mess by the end. Loved seeing the images of that beautiful mansion again.
I’m seeing it on Sunday {TIG} and will bring my hankie!
Atonement looked and felt a lot like Pride and Prejudice… come to think of it, both movies have the same director, leading lady, both are based on books and both take place in England