An historic early 19th century villa near Shrewsbury will open its doors to the public for the first time in 2007 this month.

Cronkhill will hold its first open days of the year on April 18 and April 21.

The house, near Atcham, was built in 1805 and is the first and best-known example of John Nash’s Italianate villa designs. It is part of the National Trust’s Attingham Estate.

Cronkhill is tenanted and is only open to the public on six days of the year.

Visitors will be able to tour the house and enjoy a walk around the gardens where spring flowers are now in bloom.

Ann Flenley, house and visitor services manager at Attingham Park, said: “Cronkhill is a real gem of a place and if you haven’t been to this charming villa before, don’t miss a rare chance to visit this month.”

Cronkhill was built for Francis Walford, who was a friend of the 2nd Lord Berwick of Attingham Park.

It seems the friendship turned sour and Walford eventually left Cronkhill, returning to Shrewsbury where he died in 1856.

After his tenancy, the house was mostly used by the Berwicks as a more modest home for the family than Attingham.

The open days come more than a month after the Attingham Park mansion opened its doors following its latest restoration work.

Visitors have been able to see the Italian furniture which has been reinstated in rooms at the property. It is the latest part of a six-year restoration project called Attingham Re-discovered.

Cronkhill is open from 11am to 4pm on April 18 and 21, with last admission at 3.30pm. Entry costs £3.50 for adults, £1.80 for children and is free to National Trust members.

* Details and times correct at time of publication.