England’s Unmissable Shropshire

 

If you’re planning a holiday to the UK, the quiet region of Shropshire probably doesn’t come to the top of your list. But don’t let the diminutive nature of this central county fool you. Shropshire is the ideal place for a UK holiday with something to suit all ages and tastes.

Lyth Hill in Shropshire

For Nature Lovers…

There’s much local debate about how Shrewsbury is pronounced but no matter the correct answer, the county town of Shropshire is the perfect holiday destination for those with green fingers. Charles Darwin was born here and there are tributes to the famous naturalist, which can be seen throughout the town. A festival in his honour takes place in February and is geared to nature lovers of all ages with talks, trails and a garden tour from a beetle’s perspective. These are just some of the highlights.

Shrewsbury has gained the nickname ‘town of flowers’, so it’s little surprise that during the summer months brightly coloured beds can be seen at every turn. The annual flower show, held every August, is a particular highlight for nature lovers on holiday to Shropshire. History buffs will also enjoy a Shropshire break as the town is home to more than 600 listed buildings, including characteristic black and white timber-framed buildings which line the narrow streets. Spend a day wandering this medieval town and be sure to enjoy exploring Shrewsbury Castle and Abbey.

English Bridge in Shrewsbury

For Foodies…

For a foodie holiday, choose a break to Shropshire’s culinary capital: Ludlow. This medieval town has a lively, friendly atmosphere, thanks to an abundance of great cafes and restaurants. The Norman Castle, which dominates the town, hosts a food festival that is popular with holidaymakers and locals alike who are eager to take part in the famous Sausage Trail. The food festival is the perfect place to pick up some cooking tips, with demonstrations by well known TV chefs. Serious foodies are always eager to return home and get cooking after their holiday in Shropshire. Once you’ve had your fill of Fidget Pie and Ludlow’s other delicacies, you’re well placed to burn off some of those calories with a walk in the stunning countryside. 

If this is your first visit to Ludlow, take a walk across Whitcliffe Common for dramatic views over the town. For those looking for a more active break, Ludlow’s position on the edge of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and its close proximity to the Welsh Marches guarantees great walking and cycling opportunities. Numerous long distance routes, like the Mortimer Trail and Offa’s Dyke, pass through Ludlow, so there’s no excuse not to get out and into the great outdoors.

Ludlow Castle from Whitcliffe

For Families…

If you’ve chosen Shropshire for your family holiday, you’ll be looking for attractions to keep the whole family entertained. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ironbridge is a great choice for a family break, thanks to the wealth of attractions on offer. Famous for being the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, Ironbridge is, as you’d expect, full of museums detailing the area’s past.

Step back in time with a visit to the hands-on Enginuity (an interactive design and technology centre) or the Jackfield Tile Museum and really get a feel for history in action. If you are with energetic children looking for a challenge, be sure to visit The Wrekin. At 1,500 feet above sea level, the summit of Shropshire’s most famous natural landmark offers wonderful views to distant Snowdon on a clear day. You will also want to explore the hill fort at the summit, so take a picnic to really make the most of your holiday in Shropshire.

The Ironbridge - geograph.org.uk

This article is sponsored by Sykes Cottages. Learn more about affordable cottage rentals in Shropshire and throughout the UK and Ireland.