Get back to basics at Bromsgrove's chartist cottage

Buy photos » Rosedene gives an insight into the Chartist movement. s

RESIDENTS wanting to get back to basics can have a unique break at one of the few remaining Chartist cottages left in the UK.

The National Trust is offering people the chance to stay at Rosedene in Dodford for a getaway described as 'camping with walls'.

The Grade II listed cottage, built as part of the Chartist movement in the mid-19th Century, will offer guests the chance to savour the idyllic location and escape the stresses of modern life.

The Chartist movement was aimed at encouraging people to be more self-sufficient and Rosedene, which was first occupied in 1849, has been left largely unchanged since Victorian times.

The house offers traditional work areas and two bedrooms. Outside, there is a kitchen in a barn and toilet in an outbuilding.

The land surrounding Rosedene is still a working garden as it would have been used when the Chartists lived there.

The produce grown there - fruit and vegetables - is used in the tea room at nearby Hanbury Hall.

Rosedene and Hanbury Hall's visitor services manager, Alice Eddy, said: “This unique experience is something completely different for the National Trust and provides visitors with a fascinating opportunity to get away from it all and enjoy a truly back to basics retreat.

"It’s something everyone should try.”

Those wanting to book or find out more can visit the National Trust cottages website at www.nationaltrustcottages.co.uk.

Those wanting to visit Rosedene for a look around can do so on the first Sunday of the month from March to December.

Visits are by pre-booked guided tour only. Admission is £5 for adults, £2.50 for children, £12.50 for families and free for National Trust members.

To book a place on a guided tour, call 01527 821214.

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