The previous review was a little unfair on the owners, and a chat with the owner would have been rewarding. He was looking after a very very sick wife as well as being saddled with a heritage building he cared for very much and had spent every penny he had on keeping it standing. If it wasn't for the owner, the building could well be very derelict or even possibly a modern hotel.
The private areas are where they live, and as with most National Trust properties, where they encourage family to retain living space, visitors should respect that.
The reasons to visit are for the woodwork, of which there is plenty. And to visit a really old building in historic Ludlow. If you want more, ask English Heritage why they aren't being helpful!
According to a question reported in Hansard a question was asked in Parliament in the 1930's regarding the sale of the Lodge and its export to America. The immediate future of the lodge is not less certain.