Market Drayton – The most quintessential of Shropshire’s Market Towns……
Located in North Shropshire Market Drayton is a traditional Shropshire Market Town with origins dating back to before the Domesday book, in 1245 King Henry III granted a charter for a weekly Wednesday market, giving Market Drayton its current name. The bustling and vibrant market is still held every Wednesday and attracts residents from all over Shropshire and surrounding Counties.
A wealth of appeal await those wishing to explore Market Drayton, the streets have much historic character with a mix of half-timbered, Georgian and Victorian buildings, the streets converge on The Buttercross market shelter, a covered market area that was erected in 1824 on the spot where a buttercross had been since the 16 Century, from where farmers’ wives sold their dairy produce.
The Shropshire Union Canal is a short walk from the Town Centre, Talbot Wharf is a regular stop off for canal traders operating a ‘floating market’ with a unique brand of merchandise, The canal offers some delightful circular countryside walks, together with walks through the Tern Valley and Walkmill Meadows…., countryside, nature and wildlife in abundance.
The town has an active arts and culture scene, the Drayton Festival Centre, established in 1984 is run by volunteers and has expanded considerably over 30 years which now includes a cinema and theatre, an art gallery and a range of modern meeting rooms.
The Drayton Arts Festival is held every year in October, the annual Ginger & Spice Festival in September and the Town’s very own annual Festival of Lights at Christmas where the whole Town get together to celebrate the turning on of the towns Christmas lights whilst enjoying a Christmas street market.
Market Drayton has a spectacular hospitality offering; authentic and welcoming public houses offer all manner of nightly entertainment, whilst restaurants, bistros and retail outlets offer a unique blend of artisan appeal.
Visitors to Market Drayton can be assured of a very warm welcome…..
Find out more about Market Drayton here
5 top sees and do’s
24hrs in Market Drayton and surrounding area
(Wednesday) Up early and look around the cattle market which provide a snapshot into Country life, calling in at the Grazers Café for breakfast.
Heading into town look around the Wednesday Street Market on Cheshire Street and the Indoor Market browsing the wares for sale.
Pop into the Market Drayton Museum & Resource Centre, 53 Shropshire Street (open Wednesday and Saturday, 10.30am until 1pm from May to October.
Travel a short distance out of town to Wollerton Old Hall Gardens and spend the afternoon looking around a world class example of an English garden.
Back into Town for an evening meal at one of the local pubs and possibly a tour of the local brewery or attend an event at Festival Drayton.
Find out more about Market Drayton here
Hawsktone Park Follies Santa Safari is BACK! ✨
After a warm and inviting welcome with a festive drink, it`s time to embark on a thrilling journey. Hop into one of Hawkstone`s Land Rovers, and get ready for a breathtaking ride across the park, passing under the mystical Wishing Arch, and ascending a steep hill that leads to none other than Santa`s hidden network of caves.
Imagine this: winding through captivating caverns adorned with twinkling fairy lights, it feels like you`ve stepped into a winter fairy tale. But the best is yet to come – you`ll arrive at the heart of the adventure, Santa`s very own grotto! Here, every child is greeted by Santa himself, and there`s a special gift waiting for them.
But here`s the catch – this is one of the most sought-after festive experiences around, and spots disappear faster than snowflakes in the sun! So, don`t miss your chance to pre-book this magical journey.
Remember, tickets are per vehicle, and the availability is as limited as Christmas cheer in July. With the freedom to mix and match your group, you can craft a festive adventure as unique as your own holiday traditions. 🚗🎅🎁
Find out more @hawkstoneparkfollies
#visitshropshire #hawkstoneparkfollies #shropshire #christmas #events #mustvisit
Embark on a magical Yuletide journey at Ludlow Castle! 🎅✨
Saturday 9th- Sunday 10th, Saturday 16th – Sunday 17th, Friday 22nd – Sunday 24th December.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting spirit of the season as you encounter Father Christmas within the historical splendour of Ludlow Castle. 🏰✨ Join for a joyous celebration, where the air is filled with merriment and festive cheer.
There will also be a robin trail around the castle for little ones to explore. Chapter 66 will be serving mulled wine, mince pies, and hot chocolate. 🍷
Make memories to cherish as you share in the magic of the season at Ludlow Castle!
Please note Meet Father Christmas is now fully booked for Christmas Eve!
Find out more @ludlowcastleofficial
Oswestry truly sparkles during Christmas, making it the perfect time for a festive visit! 🎄✨
Here are some unmissable Christmas Events happening in and around Oswestry!
1️⃣ Oswestry Live - This Friday! 🎄
Don`t miss Oswestry Live, where the town comes alive with the festive spirit. It`s an incredible celebration of music, entertainment, street food and late-night shopping.
2️⃣ Santa Trains at Welshpool and Llanfair Railway - every Saturday & Sunday throughout December 🚂
Hop on board the Santa Trains at Welshpool and Llanfair Railway and embark on an adventure that`s sure to bring smiles and festive cheer!
3️⃣ Park Hall Santa Experience - every Saturday & Sunday throughout December 🐑
Head to Park Hall Farm for a heartwarming Santa Experience that the whole family will adore. Meet Santa and his elves and spend the day exploring the farm!
4️⃣ British Ironworks Centre Grotto - Every Saturday in December 🎅
Delight in a visit to the wintery wonderland British Ironworks Centre Grotto. Meet Santa and Mrs Claus before entering the Toy Workshop, filled with an array of fabulous toys for you to choose from!
With these wonderful events, Oswestry is the place to be this Christmas! 🎅❄️🌟
@visitoswestry
#christmas #events #oswestry #shropshire #visitshropshire
All aboard Severn Valley Railway`s Enchanted Express for an unforgettable festive adventure! 🚂🎅
Let the enchantment begin as the beloved Dame Julie Walters` voice welcomes you aboard this magical steam train departing from Bridgnorth station every weekend throughout December.
Inspired by the timeless `Twas The Night Before Christmas poem, this journey is a true winter wonderland experience. You`ll be in the company of train driver extraordinaire, Luna Loco, Pip the Christmas Mouse, Brigadier Dimple the Toy Soldier, Violet the Sugarplum Fairy, Mama Lumi the Post Elf, and of course, Father Christmas himself – all in your very own private compartment.
Cosy in your PJs, you`ll sink into plush seats and embark on a heartwarming journey filled with an enchanting Christmas tale and festive tunes. Along the way, you`ll get to meet these charming characters who`ll personally sign your very own hardback book, and each child will receive a special gift from none other than Father Christmas himself – be sure to snap a photo with him before he continues on his merry way!
Choose from departures at 10am, 12.15pm, 2.30pm, and 4.30pm from Bridgnorth Station. Don`t miss out on this extraordinary experience that promises to make your festive season truly magical! 🌟🎁❄️
Find out more @severnvalleyrailwayofficial
#visitshropshire #severnvalleyrailway #shropshire #christmas #events
Shrewsbury during Christmas is simply enchanting! ✨ As the town dons its festive garb with twinkling Christmas lights, the holiday spirit fills the air. Wander through the charming streets and immerse yourself in the season`s merriment!
Here are 3 must-visit festive events in Shrewsbury this December!
🎄 On the 9th & 10th of December, the historic Shrewsbury Prison hosts a magical Christmas market, offering unique gifts and a festive ambiance.
🌟 On the 2nd of December, Shrewsbury Market Hall stays open late for a delightful night of shopping, delectable seasonal treats, and a joyful atmosphere.
🎶 Head to the square on the 13th of December for `Carols in the Square,` an evening of heartwarming caroling that brings the community together to celebrate the true essence of Christmas.
To discover more of what Shrewsbury has to offer at Christmas, visit @originalshrews
#visitshropshire #shrewsbury #christmas #events #shropshire #festive
