The Beckeye Suite
Set within the roof on the top floor of the Lodge, the Beckeye Suite feels at once cosy, spacious, homespun and handsome. With its plush patterns and secret nooks, it's perfect for a couple's escape. Or why not book it alongside the adjoining Captain's Suite and transform it into a breakout room for a very special private party?
The inspiration
In the 14th century, Ludlow was thriving. The town had built its fortune on the wool trade – an industry that attracted many skilled traders and artisans. One of these artisans was Richard Beckeye, who moved into Castle Lodge with his wife Agnes in 1373.
Beckeye was a skilled cordwainer who specialised in the most fashionable footwear of his day – leather 'poulaine' shoes with extremely long toes. He worked in a downstairs room of the Lodge and would sell his wares to passing market-goers from a stall that opened into the street.
You'll see references to Beckeye's life and times throughout the apartment – from the raw wooden beams to the rustic artefacts adorning the walls. And, indeed, in the view, which sweeps over the same market square where Beckeye plied his trade all those years ago.
The design
In crafting her design, Libby Lord drew much from Beckeye's life and times – but also from the lived history of the room itself. As a former school, Castle Lodge once rang with the joyful cries of children. And, even in recent times, local youths would sneak into this attic room to play.
The result is a suite that speaks of childhood adventure and theatrical fancies. You'll see it in the curious cubbyholes and the mock-medieval lighting – more gleam than gloom. Threaded through, too, are references to Beckeye's trade and the town that sustained it. Raw linen, wool and leather. Simple, authentic textures. Furniture from local craftspeople and colours from the local landscape. It's an honest and affectionate tribute to Ludlow – as it was, as it is and as it will be.
The crowning feature
The Beckeye Suite is built to be as interesting and intoxicating as a Moroccan bazaar. Every corner heralds a new discovery – a cosy snug here, a curious antique there.
But the standout feature has to be its grand four-poster bed. Framed in [wrought iron] and draped with luxurious patterned fabrics, it's tailor-made for restful nights and long, lazy mornings.
