One of the many things Shropshire is great for is walking. With 802 square kilometres of Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the south, beautiful meres known as βShropshireβs Lake Districtβ to the North and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ironbridge, there is much to explore on foot in Shropshire.
If organising your own trip isnβt your cup of tea, have no fear! Enjoy a walking tour of Shropshire put together by local expert Salopians. Youβll discover hidden gem routes, fantastic local grub spots and experience Shropshire like a true local.
If you are an independent walker and donβt want a fully packaged walking holiday but would like help organising it, byway breaks can help plan your trip. Theyβll plan your trip around the distance you want to walk and possible places to stay. Theyβll book your accommodation and organise your luggage transfers so all you need to do is enjoy the trails!
Find out more about Byway Breaks here!
Although experts in cycling holidays, Wheely Wonderful Cycling also have fantastic all-inclusive self-guided walking holidays. All their holidays include accommodation, luggage transport, maps, guides and of course fantastic walking routes.
Holidays run from 2 all the way to 6-day trips. Whether youβre looking to get off the beaten track into Shropshireβs Area of Outstanding natural beauty or delve into Shropshireβs food capital Ludlow, you can find any tour to suit your taste.
Find out more about Wheely Wonderful Cycling here!
You can find specific walks on www.shropshiregreatoutdoors.co.uk but here is a general rundown of the best areas to walk in Shropshire.
Church Stretton is situated in the heart of Shropshireβs AONB β an excellent town base for hill walking, with lovely shops and tea rooms and comfortable accommodation. In 2008, Church Stretton became the first town in the West Midlands to be awarded βWalkers are Welcomeβ status with a variety of waymarked walks for different abilities. Church Stretton is the entryway to the Long Mynd and Carding Mill Valley, 4,942 acres of heather-covered hills with stunning views over the Shropshire Hills. With miles of footpaths, bridleways and permissive paths, Church Stretton is a must to visit on your walking holiday.
Accommodation in Church Stretton
Although North Shropshire has a completely different landscape from south Shropshire, its just as interesting to explore. Here is where youβll find Shropshireβs glacial landscape of shimmering meres starting in Ellesmere.
The town itself is the perfect place to rest and recharge with traditional independent shops, markets and a good selection of Shropshire food and beer.
Just a stones throw from the town is one of the largest natural meres in England, βEllesmere Lakeβ. Itβs the perfect place to start or end your day with a delicious meal at the Boathouse and take in the stunning views of the lake.
Neighbouring Ellesmere lake is Colemere, slightly smaller but it makes for a fantastic 2.6km circular walk with plenty of wildlife to spot!
The perfect town for any food lover, Ludlow is not only brimming with outstanding restaurants but is the ideal hub for exploring on foot as many walks lead out from the town to forests and farmland including the Mortimer Trail.
The Mortimer Trail is a 30-mile route beginning in Ludlow and travels along to the town of Kington. The trail follows high ground, with fantastic views to the Black Mountains and the Malverns.
Hawsktone Park Follies Santa Safari is BACK! β¨
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 β 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 β 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. ππ
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Find out more @hawkstoneparkfollies
#visitshropshire #hawkstoneparkfollies #shropshire #christmas #events #mustvisit
Embark on a magical Yuletide journey at Ludlow Castle! π
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Saturday 9th- Sunday 10th, Saturday 16th β Sunday 17th, Friday 22nd β Sunday 24th December.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting spirit of the season as you encounter Father Christmas within the historical splendour of Ludlow Castle. π°β¨ 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. π·
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! πβ¨
Here are some unmissable Christmas Events happening in and around Oswestry!
1οΈβ£ Oswestry Live - This Friday! π
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.
2οΈβ£ Santa Trains at Welshpool and Llanfair Railway - every Saturday & Sunday throughout December π
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!
3οΈβ£ Park Hall Santa Experience - every Saturday & Sunday throughout December π
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!
4οΈβ£ British Ironworks Centre Grotto - Every Saturday in December π
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! π
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@visitoswestry
#christmas #events #oswestry #shropshire #visitshropshire
All aboard Severn Valley Railway`s Enchanted Express for an unforgettable festive adventure! ππ
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 β 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 β 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! ππβοΈ
Find out more @severnvalleyrailwayofficial
#visitshropshire #severnvalleyrailway #shropshire #christmas #events
Shrewsbury during Christmas is simply enchanting! β¨ 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!
π On the 9th & 10th of December, the historic Shrewsbury Prison hosts a magical Christmas market, offering unique gifts and a festive ambiance.
π On the 2nd of December, Shrewsbury Market Hall stays open late for a delightful night of shopping, delectable seasonal treats, and a joyful atmosphere.
πΆ 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