Hidden away in Shropshire’s north west corner and right on the Welsh border is the charming market town of Oswestry. The remains of the iron age fort on the edge of town give a hint of the ancient beginnings of this bustling little town. Take a stroll to the top to be rewarded with amazing views over beautiful Shropshire. Sometimes English, sometimes Welsh, the markets are key to a visit. Add a mix of unique and independent shops and some tasty café culture for a feel of a true market town.
From our free, fun and family friendly food festival to the annual street circus and hot air balloon carnival, Oswestry is well known for its town events. Don’t miss a musical summer afternoon in the park or a trip on our heritage railway. There’s a brewery at the end of the line too!
Welcome to Oswestry – friendly, historic and surprising.
Market day and indie shopping – Oswestry loves independent shopping so come along on a Wednesday or Saturday to browse the town centre street market the stay on to explore our indie shops.
Oswestry Hill Fort and Oswald’s Trail – Oswestry’s origins date back to the iron age hill fort on the edge of town. To see it at its best follow Oswald’s trail. This twelve mile walk takes you through town, past the old racecourse, along Offa’s Dyke and out to Old Oswestry Hill Fort.
Cambrian Heritage Railway – climb aboard a heritage train right in the centre of town and tootle down to Weston Wharf. Jump out there and enjoy a drink or two at Stonehouse Brewery before heading back to town.
Oswestry Food and Drink Festival – come along for two tasty days in July. Oswestry Food and Drink Festival is free, fun and family friendly.
Take a walking tour of Oswestry – join our volunteer guides as they take you on a tour of Oswestry’s historic street and alleyways. Meet at the Town Tourist Information Centre and don’t miss the town museum at the end of your walk.
Explore Oswestry’s Borderlands – Oswestry’s location right on the Welsh Border has left a wonderful legacy of historic attractions. See Thomas Telford’s awesome aqueduct at the UNESCO world heritage site of Pontcysyllte and Chirk Aqueducts. Explore border castles and walk along Offa’s Dyke National Trail.
A weekend in Oswestry
On Saturday, meet at the Tourist Information Centre at 11 to take a guided walking tour of town. Our guides know all the hidden nooks and crannies of the town and will tell you the history of Oswestry from medieval times to war poet, Wilfred Owen’s Victorian Oswestry and more. Pop into the town museum afterwards to discover more.
Saturday is market day. The indoor market has an eclectic mix of stalls from antiques to cake stalls and there’s even a barber. Wander down through the street market and then on to explore the street and alleyways. Don’t miss the award winning book shop or probably Shropshire’s best kitchen shop. There’s a great mix of antique shops too.
Café culture is alive and well in Oswestry. There is an eclectic mix of tasty places to take a break or stop for lunch. Two of Oswestry’s oldest building are home to delicious cafés and a patisserie or take a table in the square by our borderland farmer and watch the world go by.
After lunch it’s time to get to know a bit more about Oswestry’s history as a railway town. The railway museum is a cornucopia of railway memorabilia. After a visit there, jump on board a heritage train for the short trip down to Weston Wharf. The Wharf is a great place to begin a country walk or stay longer and enjoy some delicious local ales or cider at the brewery next door..
You could spend the evening in one of Oswestry’s many pubs. There is a really great mix of traditional pubs, often with live music and pub grub. Or enjoy a leisurely supper at an Oswestry restaurant. Choose from the beautiful eighteenth century coaching inn, an authentic Italian restaurant or an elegant townhouse restaurant.
Are you ready for a lazy Sunday or how about a walk around Oswestry? You could follow Oswald’s trail around town or maybe take a stroll up to Old Oswestry to enjoy the Shropshire views? Summer Sundays are perfect for a picnic. The town centre park is not only a delight of summer flowers but the Victorian bandstand plays host to everything from brass bands to reggae on sunny afternoons.
Discover more about Oswestry:
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
