Smethcott

The rural parish of Smethcott is situated in the northern foothills of the Long Mynd and is within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Parish includes the villages of Picklescott, Woolstaston and Smethcott and the small hamlet of Betchcott. The village of Picklescott lies over 1000ft above sea level with stunning views of Lawley Hill, Caer Caradoc and the Wrekin. The area has an abundance of public footpaths and bridleways and spectacular scenery. Picklescott boasts a refurbished Village Hall in which the Parish Council holds its bi-monthly meetings. The village of Smethcott lies on the road leading from Leebotwood travelling towards Picklescott. The name Smethcott has an Old English origin, and means "cottage(s) of the smiths A 13th century motte-and-bailey castle existed at Smethcott, of which now only the earthworks remain in a field near the church.

 

 

Woolstaston

Woolstaston is a small peaceful hamlet with a very small parish population, with the Betchcott Brook forming the parish boundary. Woolstaston Church is mentioned in the Domesday Book. This is the church and rectory of the well-known Victorian clergyman the Reverend Donald Carr who became hopelessly lost in sub-zero temperatures and 20 foot snowdrifts while returning home across the Long Mynd after conducting a service at Ratlinghope. His grave is outside the West window. The Parish Council maintains the Village Green in Woolstaston.