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Issue 9 - 2011
Historic Houses | Festivals | Town Guides Environment & Transport | Gardens | Attractions | Tourist Attractions
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CONTENTS Historic Buildings Gardens & Outdoors Festivals & Shows Attractions Cover image: Pontcysyllte Aqueduct just over the border
Go to you to dow r phone’s app nlo Count ad our new store y Sign , post a free pp ! Welcome to the 2011 edition of Shropshire Signpost, your indispensable guide to the best tourist attractions and days out the county has to offer. We hope that you find our guide, a pleasure to read, both interesting and informative, and that you will take it away with you, to use again and again.
We offer a taster of the visitor attractions and events within the County, for both locals and those who wish to visit from afar. We are always interested to receive your comments and suggestions for future features - please contact the editor
For a free download please visit our new map-driven, online magazine website
www.countysignpost.co.uk
Published by: County Signpost Ltd Editor: Adam Davison Look out for the public transport information boxes throughout the magazine, for details of bus routes and nearest train stations to the attractions.
Please mention
Shropshire Signpost
when visiting any of the attractions. All material in this magazine is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of printing. County Signpost Ltd does not accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies which slipped through. Copyright County Signpost Ltd 2011. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.
County Signpost Ltd 01743 874098 info@countysignpost.co.uk
Signpost - page 1
THE NATIONAL TRUST
With breathtaking countryside and fascinating history, National Trust properties in Shropshire offer something for everyone.
As well as delighting in country house splendour and beautiful scenery, visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities and events in 2011.
With an extensive programme of events and activities running throughout the year, there are plenty of reasons to visit at different times. For even more great value days out, ask our reception teams about annual National Trust membership, which costs from as little as 13p per day.
Attingham Park, near Shrewsbury Attingham Park is one of Shropshire’s greatest treasures and a fantastic family attraction. With acres of stunning parkland to explore and a striking mansion at its heart, Attingham caters for all.
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Attingham Park, © The National Trust
A major project to restore the beautiful interiors is currently underway which honours the 8th Lord and Lady Berwick’s own restoration work from the early 20th century that sought to revive Attingham after a prolonged period of neglect.
The mansion was built in 1785 for the 1st Lord Berwick to the design of George Steuart and has a picture gallery by John Nash. The magnificent Regency interiors contain collections of ambassadorial silver, Italian furniture and Grand Tour paintings.
Attingham was completed and furnished by the 2nd Lord Berwick, but the extravagant taste of the lord and his wife led to bankruptcy and in 1827 and 1829 there were sales of almost the entire contents. The house was then leased to the 3rd Lord Berwick, who had been a diplomat in Italy for 25 years, and who turned Attingham’s fortunes around.
Spectacular parkland, landscaped by Humphry Repton in 1797, surrounds the house offering miles of walks. There are themed guided park
tours throughout the year, including a Dawn Chorus Walk and Deer Park Rides.
For admission prices, opening times and a full events list contact the property on 01743 708162.
B u s S e r v i c e : 81 + 96 - SHREWSBURY - TELFORD N e a r e s t R a i l w a y S t a t i o n : Shrewsbury
Sunnycroft, near Wellington
One of Shropshire’s hidden gems is Sunnycroft, a Victorian Gentleman’s Villa and home to an inspiring collection of 20th century embroidery.
Sunnycroft is typical of houses that were built for prosperous professionals on the fringes of Victorian towns and cities. It is a remarkable survival of a vanished way of life – both inside and out.
Its design reflects the patterns and concerns of small town life. It includes an imposing Staircase Hall, Dining Room and Billiard Room, but no Library, suggesting that social life was more important to its owners, the Slaneys and Landers, than displays of art and culture.
Sunnycroft was given to the National Trust by Joan Lander in 1997. Miss Lander, who inherited the house from her father, was a highly accomplished embroiderer and examples of her talent for needlework are on display in the house.
The gardens reflect the early Edwardian period - complete with a magnificent Wellingtonia Avenue and the mini-estate recalls an era when self-sufficiency was part of the prosperous lifestyle. The paddock, stables, pigsties, chicken run and kitchen garden are all still intact.
For admission prices or any further information please call 01952 242884.
Sunnycroft, © NTPL / Andrew Butler
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The Dudmaston Estate, Š The National Trust / Richard Bifield
Dudmaston Estate, near Bridgnorth The Dudmaston Estate offers an inspiring and interesting visit for everyone. Built in the 17th century the classic setting of Dudmaston Hall provides a stunning contrast to its unique collection of modern and contemporary art.
Dudmaston is a true house of collections from the intriguing modern art galleries assembled by diplomat Sir George Labouchere, to the classical collections of botanical drawings and watercolours put together by his wife Lady Rachel.
Dudmaston hosts a varied programme of events for its visitors, from guided walks of the estate to children’s craft activities. The arts are celebrated with lectures and workshops, and in summer,
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the grounds come alive with outdoor theatre and jazz evenings.
There are nine acres of gardens to explore, which include the Rockery Bank and American Garden, which are a glorious mass of colour in spring and summer and take on the seasonal hues of autumn.
There are two estate walks of 5.5 and 4 miles both starting from the Hampton Loade car park, which is another 1.5 miles towards Kidderminster off the A442.
For more details and event information call Dudmaston Hall on 01746 780866.
B u s S e r v i c e : 297 - BRIDGNORTH - KIDDERMINSTER
Benthall Hall, near Broseley Situated on a plateau above the gorge of the River Severn lies the imposing Benthall Hall. This fine stone house has mullioned and transomed windows and a stunning interior with a carved oak staircase, decorated plaster ceilings and oak panelling. There is an intimate and carefully restored plantsman’s garden, old kitchen garden and a Restoration church.
For more details, call 01952 882159. B u s S e r v i c e : 9 - TELFORD - BRIDGNORTH
Benthall Hall, Š NTPL / Mark Fiennes
Signpost - page 5
A busy programme of events and activities is held at Carding Mill Valley throughout the year and walks leaflets are available from the visitor centre.
Walkers can enjoy exploring the heathland at Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd 365 days a year. For information, call 01694 723068.
Shropshire Hills Š The National Trust / Sara Thomas
Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd
Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd offer breathtaking views across Shropshire, Cheshire and the Black Mountains.
The Long Mynd is an area of historic upland heath, created when some of Britain’s oldest rocks were pushed to the surface along the Church Stretton fault. The ancient landscape has been shaped by human activity for thousands of years, and there are scattered archaeological remains from the Bronze Age, Iron Age and Medieval times.
The area is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a Site of Special Scientific Interest as it contains a number of habitats supporting wildlife and plants. Heather, bilberry and gorse cover much of the hilltop and the streams and bogs of the sheltered valleys are home to birds of prey, plants and insects. There are miles of paths for walkers and a network of bridleways, which are ideal for both horse riders and cyclists. Whether you take a short stroll through Carding Mill Valley or a more rugged route to the Burway, there are breathtaking views of beautiful countryside.
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Wenlock Edge Wenlock Edge is a stunning geologically interesting wooded escarpment near the village of Much Wenlock.
The limestone of Wenlock Edge is of international repute as an example of old coral reef deposits. It supports an array of flowered grassland and ancient woodland, making the area an important Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Three National Trust car parks at Much Wenlock, Wilderhope and Presthope, mark the start of miles of walks to enjoy offering dapple shaded paths and dramatic views across the Shropshire countryside.
Nearby, is the unspoilt Elizabethan limestone manor house, Wilderhope Manor which dates back to 1586. Although unfurnished, the interior is of interest for its remarkable wooden spiral staircase and fine plaster ceilings. The gabled property is now leased to the Youth Hostel Association.
For general details about opening times and events please call the National Trust on 01743 708100 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk.
B u s S e r v i c e : 435 - LUDLOW - SHREWSBURY N e a r e s t R a i l w a y S t a t i o n : Church Stretton
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Signpost - page 7
The
Abbey-Cwm-Hir Hall at
52 rooms of Victorian Splendour
As featured on BBC, ITV and S4C. “A Palace in Radnorshire” “Enchanting” “Best visit to any house, anywhere, anytime”
“The best we have seen” “Words fail me an amazing house in an amazing setting” Bookings are available for TOURS by the owners, throughout the year. •Individuals/couples/groups.
•Weekdays/weekends/evenings.
•Parking for cars and coaches.
•Refreshments / catering available.
•Gift vouchers available.
•12 acre Gardens open.
•Situated off the A483/A44, 7 miles north west of Llandrindod Wells/east of Rhayader.
To book contact Paul and Victoria Humpherston on telephone 01597 851 727 or email: info@abbeycwmhir.com or visit our website www.abbeycwmhir.com
THE HALL AT ABBEY-CWM-HIR: 2011
Over the last 2-3 years thousands of visitors from all over the UK and overseas have toured The Hall at Abbey-Cwm-Hir, a Grade 11* Gothic mansion some 7 miles north of Llandrindod Wells. Such is its uniqueness, The Hall has featured in 9 TV programmes over the last 3 years. In September 2010, The Hall won The Small Business Award at The Powys Business Award ceremony.
Owners Paul and Victoria Humpherston restored the property over 10 years. The tours combine outstanding architecture, stunning interiors, and fascinating collections with enchanting 12 acre gardens. The couple are now planning the next 12 months.
Paul and Victoria say; “We have been described as a museum, an art gallery, a stately home and even as a 52 roomed film set! But we think of ourselves as a family home we share with others. Visitors see all 52 rooms guided by a family member in a family atmosphere, we have no private apartments, and people laugh a lot because they never know what`s coming next.”
Spring and Summer 2011
In looking at 2011 Paul says“ We will again be open each day of the year with the house decorated in all rooms for Easter, from 16th April to 30th April inclusive.
A Retro Summer
From 1st April to end September, The Garden Room will be decorated for a Retro Summer with soft furnishings complementing the 30`s, 40`s and 50`s memorabilia. Selections of cakes and refreshments will be available to those visiting the house and/or gardens, and meals or high teas are available for groups through prebooking.
Ladies’ Days
During April, groups can choose between the customary tour and “Ladies` Days “. These days allow ladies to break the tour and to look in greater depth at Victorias` various collections of clothes, handbags, shoes and jewellery, and at individual items of interior design or furnishing.
The Gardens and Grounds
The grounds include a romantic walled garden, a lake and waterfall, courtyards and terraces and some splendid mixed woodland. They overlook the ruins of the 12th c “Abbey of The Long Valley” in a spectacular setting, and are amidst the most beautiful in Wales.
Christmas 2011
“We had a rapturous reception from visitors to our 2010 Christmas ” says Victoria, “ and we are already working on the new decorative themes and trees in all 52 rooms for Christmas 2011. Our Xmas is completely unique in the UK. and we have am, pm or evening tours daily from November 1st 2011 through to January 6th 2012 inclusive.
Gift Vouchers
Our Gift Vouchers, redeemable at any point in the year, remain a popular gift for loved ones throughout the year.
Prices
The price for the guided tour of all 52 rooms and full access to the 12 acre gardens remains at £12.00pp for groups (ten persons or over) and for repeat visitors, and £14.00pp for individuals. Visits to the gardens only are £5.00pp
Signpost - page 9
WHITTINGTON CASTLE Opening Times
Summer March-Nov Wednesday to Sunday 104pm Winter Nov-March Thursday to Sunday 10-4pm Open Bank Holiday Mondays & Wednesday during February half term Free entrance Car Park ÂŁ1 via Pay & Display machine
Visit these strikingly picturesque and romantic ruins which are steeped in much history, tales of bitter border warfare, romance and legend.
Tearoom serving snacks and cakes, gift shop and second hand bookshop. The Castle has a license for Civil Ceremonies, birthday parties, meetings, group tours; school visits, Paranormal Ghost Vigils can all be arranged. Visit our website for further details.
Signpost - page 10
Whittington Castle Castle Street Whittington Oswestry Shropshire SY11 4DF
Telephone 01691 662397 E-Mail info@whittingtoncastle.co.uk Website www.whittingtoncastle.co.uk
THE PONTCYSYLLTE AQUEDUCT AND CANAL
Chirk Aqueduct
The Stream in the Sky Spanning the borders of Shropshire and Wales is one of the UK’s most unusual and spectacular World Heritage Sites., the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal. This eleven mile stretch of the Llangollen Canal is officially recognised by UNESCO as one of the most outstanding heritage sites in the whole world. It encompasses not one but two amazing aqueducts which carry the canal high above the Ceiriog and Dee valleys. To walk across the 126 foot high aqueduct of Pontcysyllte or the only slightly lower Chirk aqueduct, four miles away, is to put your faith in the genius of Thomas Telford and the skill of eighteenth century engineers and workmen. At Pontcysyllte, crossing the stream in the sky is a unique experience as birds fly beneath you and boats glide beside you. At Chirk the canal and towpath cross high above the River Ceiriog and alongside the nineteenth century railway viaduct before plunging both walkers and boats into the 400 metre long tunnel, ‘The Darkie’.
It’s easy to visit the World Heritage Site from it’s Shropshire end at Chirk, from Trevor for the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, and from Llangollen for the scenic Horseshoe Falls. Trains from Shrewsbury & Wrexham go to Chirk just minutes from the Chirk Aqueduct and there are bus services connecting all the main parts of the site.
For more information visit : www.pontcysyllte-aqueduct.co.uk
Contact Visitor Information at Oswestry Mile End Tel: 01691 662488 email : oswestrytourism@shropshire.gov.uk
Or Visitor Information at The Heritage Centre, Oswestry Tel: 01691 662753 email :obt.ltd@btconnect.com
Signpost - page 11
THE GARDENS AT GLANSEVERN At the riverside is a bird and wildlife watchers paradise and a haven for contemplation with a wildflower water meadow and a newly built raised bird-hide.
Just over the Shropshire border into Wales (four miles beyond Powis Castle on the A483) you will find the sensory delight of Glansevern Gardens. With over 25 acres on the banks of the River Severn and the Kerry hills as a back-drop you can while away many hours. The romance of the gardens is matched by the Hall itself, a Greek Revival house of great elegance and charm which dates from 1801. Glansevern is a place of calm and tranquility, a sensation fostered by the presence of water in every direction – the river on one side, fountains and pools in the garden itself, a lake surrounded by trees with an island folly and a delightful water garden, a riot of colour and growth, set among the lake’s feeder streams.
After you’ve exhausted yourself in the gardens the sensory pleasures continue in the fully licensed tearoom, renowned for its home-cooking. Irresistable treats are on offer for morning coffee, lunch and tea. And for those who want a bit of retail therapy too there is a Gift Shop across the courtyard from the tearoom.
So whether you have an hour or a day Glansevern Gardens is a truly worthwhile destination.
www.glansevern.co.uk Email: gardens@glansevern.co.uk Telephone 01686 640644 Groups by appointment any day of the week. Dogs are welcome on a lead.
The remodelled walled garden is a revelationnine “rooms”, each with its own distinctive planting theme. Each compartment is also invisible from the others- a box of nine surprises with colour and interest throughout the seasons.
Beyond the flower-filled herbaceous borders and formal gardens is a tree-lined walk down to the Severn which passes a massive rock garden with it’s mysterious grotto and a romantic, perfectly round folly that overlooks 2 rivers and the valley below.
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B u s S e r v i c e : X75 - SHREWSBURY - LLANIDLOES
Rocke Cottage Tearoom
AA
HHHHH Restaurant with rooms
A unique blend of traditional and contemporary, The Clive is renowned for quality, modern British food with an emphasis on fresh, local produce.
Come and take a proper ‘afternoon tea’ enjoy a wide range of fresh leaf tea and genuine home baking. Light lunches available & local chutneys, pickles and honeys to buy. All in a 400 year old charming tearoom set amidst beautiful gardens. Open 10 - 5 Wednesdays - Sundays including Bank Holdays
Telephone 01588 660631
Annexed newly-converted bedrooms are stylish, spacious and very well equipped, with some suitable for families. Just 2 miles north of Ludlow adjacent to Ludlow Food Centre, Golf Club and Racecourse. Open All Day, Every Day
Ample Car Parking Booking recommended
info@theclive.co.uk www.theclive.co.uk
Abcott, Clungunford, Craven Arms SY7 0PX
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Signpost - page 13
THE DOROTHY CLIVE GARDEN
The Dorothy Clive Garden was created in 1940 by the late Colonel Harry Clive, who lived at Elds Gorse, the large white house to the West of the garden. He began by transforming a disused Victorian gravel quarry, so his wife Dorothy, who suffered from Parkinson’s disease, could take more stimulating daily exercise. The disused quarry - now called ‘The Quarry Garden’ - is a beautiful two acre woodland, including some of the country’s finest collections of rhododendrons and azaleas. Sadly, in April 1942, Dorothy died, but work on the garden continued unabated and it subsequently became the focus of Colonel Clive’s life. In 1958 Colonel Clive set up the ‘Willougbridge Garden Trust’ creating a Memorial to Dorothy as well as preserving a place of rest and recreation for the public. Colonel Harry Clive, the Trust’s first Curator, died in 1963, leaving a garden of outstanding beauty and interest for all to enjoy and savour for years to come.
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Now extending to twelve acres, The Dorothy Clive Garden is delightfully woven into the magnificent tapestry of the Shropshire and Staffordshire borders and has fine views over the surrounding countryside. It is an intimate and informal garden embracing a variety of landscape features, including a south facing Hillside Garden, an Alpine Scree with sculpted pool as well as an eclectic gravel garden including a beautiful laburnum arch. Plant enthusiasts will find many unusual species throughout the garden as well as specimen trees, shrubs and a diverse collection of perennials. There are plentiful summer borders with seasonal plants such as philadelphus, deutzia, roses and various herbaceous plants. The garden also hosts some superb walks, such as the Bluebell and daffodil walk. The garden is open 10.00am - 5.30pm daily from mid March until the end of September. There are various events taking place, please see the website for further details : www.dorothyclivegarden.co.uk
There is also a garden tea room with a terrace lawn which is open from 11.00am - 5.00pm for mid morning snacks, lunch and afternoon tea (with home baking).
Situated on the A51 on the north Staffordshire/Shropshire border, the Dorothy
Clive Garden is two miles out of Woore village, mid way between Nantwich and Stone. From the M6, exit at junction 15 and take the A 53 then the A51. Facilities are available for disabled visitors. Parking is free and dogs are admitted on leads.
For further information, please contact the Administrator on 01630 647237 or email at info@dorothyclivegarden.co.uk
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GREEN WOOD CENTRE
“Managing woodlands now and for the future.” The Green Wood Centre is part of the national woodland charity, Small Woods, and is based in Coalbrookdale just a short way from historic Ironbridge.
Small Woods supports the sustainable management of woodlands and the production and marketing of wood products for local markets.
The Green Wood Centre promotes sustainable living through a wood based economy by running courses in woodland management and related activities and making landscape furniture from local FSC timber. They deliver courses accredited by the Open College Network in Coppicing, Hedge Laying, Coppice Products, Sustainable Woodland Management, Introduction to Small Woodland
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Management and Woodland Monitoring and Evaluation. A social forestry programme is also offered, providing courses for youngsters at Forest School, those Not in Employment Education or Training, and also to the probation service. The programme uses the woodland as an environment to promote self-reliance and problem-solving in a healthy environment. The Centre also offers various craft courses, including : basket weaving, coracle making, longbow making and willow weaving.
Come and try one of the three circular walks from the Centre, The Rotunda and Dale Coppice, Strethill Walk and Ropewalk Meadow and Loamhole Dingle (each of about two miles). As you set out on the walks, you will pass the ‘ecopod’ – a ‘wooden sleeping hut’ which is available for overnight hire !
The Green Wood Centre is home to the Ironbridge Woodland Experience which includes a 'state of the art' woodland hall, a
Ecopod - wooden sleeping hut
vegetarian whole-food cafe, a retail outlet for coppice products, displays of coppice tools, coracles in all stages of construction and of course woodland walks around the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site.
Cherry’s Real Food Café @ The Green Wood Centre is open Tuesdays to Sundays 11.00am – 4.00pm, and Wednesdays to Sundays 11.am 3.pm in the winter. Specialising in good rustic food with a focus on vegetarian dishes, which is home-made on site or sourced from local suppliers.
Woodland Hall
Is an award winning environmentally friendly building, with a striking and unique architectural look, offering a tranquil yet at the same time vibrant atmosphere. It is a prime example of how green wood can be used to create modern ecologically sound architecture.
It is an ideal cost effective venue for conferences, meetings and events for up to 70 delegates where cost is not compromised by facilities or service.
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The Woodland Hall also has a Civil Wedding Licence and the “WOW” factor of the hall combined with our food and level of service which will ensure your special event, whether it is for a wedding or party, will be one to remember.
The Green Wood Centre is the first establishment in Shropshire to achieve a Gold award in the Green Tourism Business Scheme. ShropshireLink is an exciting and innovative solution to providing a public transport bus service in all rural parts of Shropshire on a minimum of two days each week. The service makes travelling around rural Shropshire easier and provides a better service to the nearest market town and other services and attractions. Unlike a traditional bus service ShropshireLink is not restricted to a set route or timetable. Instead the bus is able to travel flexibly within an area to meet the demands of people who wish to travel to their nearest market town. For more information on how to use the service and if it's available please call 0345 6789 068.
Volunteering
Contact the Green Wood Centre for details of how to become a volunteer to maintain the site buildings and woodland.
Telephone 01952 432769 www.greenwoodcentre.org.uk
Green Wood Centre nr Ironbridge, Telford
•Cherry’s Café
•Hall for hire - meetings/celebrations •Basic Accommodation •Professional Courses
www.greenwoodcentre.org.uk Tel. 01952 432769 Cafe 01952 435857
Signpost - page 18
RAF COSFORD AIR SHOW
12th June 2011
The rest of the programme ranges from pre-war machines to the latest combat aircraft like the Typhoon.
Norman Branagh, Air Show Co-ordinator, said: “Each year we try to bring in different aircraft to entertain the crowds, along with the favourites that people turn out to see year on year.
“For 2011 we have a few surprises up our sleeves for the aviation enthusiasts and will again be working to provide jaw-dropping performances from a variety of aerobatic display teams.
The Red Arrows
Plans are now well under way for the 2011 Cosford Air Show which will see thousands of people of all ages coming together for one of the country’s top aviation events.
Preparations for the annual RAF extravaganza began at the close of the 2010 show on June 13 and the line-up for one of the longest RAF flying displays in the UK is now coming together.
The 2011 show will take place on June 12 at RAF Cosford on the Shropshire-Staffordshire border and organisers are promising a day of wonder, excitement and entertainment.
Every display is built round the regular appearance of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight of Lancaster bomber, Spitfire and Hurricane and the Red Arrows aerobatics team – both of which are already booked for this year.
“Every year the proceeds of the event, which never fails to provide a great day of entertainment for all involved, go to the RAF and local charities.”
Cosford Air Show is renowned for the exposure it provides for historic aircraft and the amazing feats provided annually by the modern flyers.
And as well as the excitement in the air the thousands of visitors will also be able to enjoy a wide variety of entertainment on the ground with a fun fair, craft fair, market and aircraft exhibitions – as well as entry to the RAF Museum.
And the Large Model Association will be back to entertain the crowds with an aircraft display of their own to kick-start the activities.
Full information on the show can be seen on the air show web site – www.cosfordairshow.co.uk – or is available on the show information line at 0844 561 1897.
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LLANGOLLEN INTERNATIONAL MUSICAL EISTEDDFOD July 4th - 10th
With spring on the doorstep, soon follows summer, and with that, one of Wales’ most significant and vibrant festivals will be staged. From Monday 4th, until Sunday 10th of July, Llangollen, a small town in beautiful North Wales will be host and home to an array of colour, a world of cultures and of course, a showcase of musical talents. This event has continued to grow and grow since it was first held in 1947. Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod is not only about Eisteddfod! Yes, the days are filled with live colourful, vibrant competitions, including; choirs, dance groups, musicians, and
Signpost - page 20
McFly
vocal soloists from all around the world. At Llangollen they ALL come together in an unique spirit of goodwill, to showcase their talents and culture and compete in 25 competitions.
When night falls, Llangollen never fails to impress! Live music @ 6 gives all festival visitors a taste of the Eisteddfod winning competitors and a popular and engaging series of informal concerts on the field.
Llangollen is famed for securing the biggest names in the music industry to perform at the headline concerts. This year is no exception to this rule; the superstar Lulu, performs at the
Opening Gala concert on Monday with her special guests where, Divas of the world, unite! Tuesday Evening Russell Watson will be headlining this year, for his visit to Llangollen. Tuesday is International Children’s Day, the Peace message and the famous International Parade!
Friday’s concert sees West End and Broadway star, Ruthie Henshall, perform The Best of the West End featuring soloists from West End and the Orchestra of Welsh National Opera.
Saturday is International Family Day. The @6 evening concerts feature Guest of Honour, cello virtuoso Julian Lloyd-Webber, playing some of his favourite music and in the Pavilion the World famous Choir of the World Competition and Concert. Sunday we have an exciting move from tradition with McFly!!!! www.mcfly.com Summer is most definitely here! Come and see for yourself! www.llangollen2011.co.uk
Ticket Office 01978 862001: Prices from £10, extra special savings available with the purchase of season tickets.
Russell Watson
Choir of the World Winners - University of Santo Thomas Singers 2010, with Terry Waite & Mervyn Cousins
Signpost - page 21
PRESTEIGNE FESTIVAL
25th - 30th August 2011
many years the jewel in the festival’s crown, with other performances given at village churches and halls nestling in the beautiful countryside of the Welsh Marches. Thanks to an exciting association with the Lithuanian Embassy, the 2011 Festival offers a wide variety of Lithuanian music with many UK premieres. We will be joined by Zita Bružait , one of Lithuania’s leading composers, as a featured artist-in-residence. Other Festival highlights include Joseph Phibbs as composer-in-residence, mini-features of Bartók and Shostakovich and a celebration of the music of Cecilia McDowall in honour of her sixtieth birthday year.
As ever at Presteigne there will be a strong crop of commissions, including new pieces for the Festival Orchestra – a Concertino for violin and string orchestra from Huw Watkins, a concertante work for wind quintet, timpani and string orchestra by John Pickard and a concerto for string orchestra by Joseph Phibbs. In addition the Festival has commissioned a setting of the
Tamsin Waley-Cohen
Situated in an intimate town on the Herefordshire/Powys border, the Presteigne Festival has become a mecca for those seeking artistic nourishment and musical discovery in idyllic surroundings. With a truly forward looking commissioning policy, the organisation works closely with composers and artists to create and curate inspiring programmes and events for an ever-widening Festival community. This year we’ll promote some thirty events of which fifteen are concerts together with many complimentary activities. Our main concert venue is St Andrew’s Church, Presteigne, for
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Huw Watkins
Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis from Joe Duddell, chamber pieces from Zita Bružait and John Hawkins and songs from Julian Phillips.
2011 will be another hugely exciting year in the life of the Presteigne Festival as artistic horizons are expanded yet further. In spring 2011, as a direct result of our hugely successful Creating Landscapes education project, outreach work is planned in association with Live Music Now – this will include a series of concerts for elders in nursing homes and day care centres in the immediate area. Renewing a recent association with Dominic Horne and the Birmingham Conservatoire, the Presteigne Festival is to promote a second competition for composers. The winning work will be premiered at the 2011 Festival and will be awarded the second Alan Horne prize for composition.
Apart from exciting pieces by living British composers and rarely heard Lithuanian repertoire, other music to be heard includes important works by Bach, Beethoven, Britten, Damase, Haydn, Hindemith, Ireland, Martinů, Mozart, Scriabin, Stravinsky and Tippett – a magnificent array by anyone’s standards.
An amazingly wide range of artists will perform at the Festival in 2011, including some wonderfully talented performers from the younger generation: the Navarra Quartet, pianist and composer Huw Watkins, violinists Tamsin WaleyCohen and Sara Trickey, soprano Helen-Jane Howells, Russian pianist and composer Alissa
Alissa Firsova
Firsova, the Choir of Royal Holloway, University of London under their director Rupert Gough, cellist Louisa Tuck, harpist Sally Pryce, woodwind players Joanna Shaw (flute), Ilid Jones (oboe), Catriona Scott (clarinet) and Thomas Oxley (bassoon), Christopher Brannick (percussion), trumpeter Heidi Bennett and double bass player Benjamin Griffiths. The Presteigne Festival Orchestra will give three concerts at the Festival, conducted by artistic director, George Vass. Continuing its important partnership with BBC Radio 3, two concerts from the Festival will be broadcast. www.presteignefestival.com Telephone 01544 267800
The Navarra Quartet
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CHURCH STRETTON ARTS FESTIVAL
July 24th - August 6th
The Church Stretton Arts Festival celebrates 45 years with a kaleidoscope of events including the glamorous all-trumpet girl band - Bella Tromba (pictured above) whose programme includes the première of a Festival commission by Bruce Nockles. Festival-goers will be delighted with performances by major artists such as celebrity and politician Ann Widdecombe, Tim Bentinck (David Archer) and The Temperance Seven.
The Festival, a key part of Shropshire’s artistic calendar, includes concerts by professionals and local amateurs, and a spectacular Art and Crafts Exhibition with guest artist Jon Thompson.
The Season starts on Sunday 24th July with the Fitzwilliam String Quartet and will conclude with a performance of The Magic Flute by London Festival Opera.
The C2 Duo (harp and percussion) make their Stretton debut, and Richard Uttley, winner of last year’s Haverhill Sinfonia Soloist Competition will give a piano recital; drama is represented by Chapterhouse Theatre’s adaptation of Elizabeth Gaskell’s Cranford. Fontanella,
Temperance 7
the recorder quintet at the forefront of the early music scene, offers a combination of charismatic stage presence and fine musicianship.
Brochures:
C2 Duo
Church Stretton Visitor Information Centre. Tickets available from Gloria Carter, 49 Ludlow Road, Church Stretton SY6 7AD (01694) 724106, John R Thomas (florist) 3 Sandford Avenue and Church Stretton VIC. Ring and Ride Transport available free for all events; telephone (01694) 720025. Art Exhibition information from Joan Arnfield 01694 724170.
www.strettonfestival.org.uk
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B u s S e r v i c e : 435 - LUDLOW - SHREWSBURY N e a r e s t R a i l w a y S t a t i o n : Church Stretton
THURSDAY 4 W O BURWARTONSH AUGUST 2011 and THE WHITCHURCH DOG DISPLAY
THE SHEEP SHOW
THE IMPS MOTORCYCLE DISPLAY TEAM
• Trade Stands • Shopping Arcade • Food Hall • Handicrafts • Horticulture • WI • YFC Displays • Craft Demonstrations
www.burwartonshow.co.uk Burwarton Show on the B4364 between Ludlow & Bridgnorth
Heavy Horses, Cattle, Sheep, Goats, Pigs, Horses & Ponies
Tel: 01746 787535
Email: info@burwartonshow.co.uk
A great day out for all the family
8.1 5a m
Tickets available on-line
-7 .00 pm
Pre-show tickets: Adults £11, Concessions (Senior Citizens, Students & YFC members) £10, Child (5-16) £4, Family (2+2) £28
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BURWARTON AGRICULTURAL SHOW
4th August
Burwarton Show 2010 was a great success attended and enjoyed by thousands of visitors. The weather was good for most of the day enabling visitors to enjoy all that was on offer. Burwarton Show is one of the premier one-day agricultural shows in the country attracting some twenty thousand visitors each year to the glorious south Shropshire countryside.
A great day out for all the family with something for everyone. What better place to spend a day in the county but the beautiful countryside of south Shropshire and if you can combine that with a visit to Burwarton Agricultural Show on Thursday 4 August, then you are on to a real winner.
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Burwarton welcomes visitors from around the county and the West Midlands as well as further afield to enjoy a truly rural show which has retained its agricultural flavour with an array of trade stands promoting agriculture, local foods and crafts rarely equalled by any other one day event. The show also prides itself on attracting some of the finest displays of Heavy horses, cattle, sheep, goats and horses and this year has also introduced classes for pigs for the first time.
To complement all the other attractions, the Village Green provides activity aimed at the younger visitors and there are plenty of places to sit and enjoy the atmosphere throughout the showground.
There are a number of special events planned for the 2011 Show : • The Imps Motorcycle Display Team • The Whitchurch Dog Display Team • The Sheep Show & Sheep Racing
So for a quintessential county day out visit Burwarton on the 4th August !
The showground is on the B4364 at Cleobury North between Bridgnorth and Ludlow with free car parking.
Tickets Adult £13, Concessions £12, Children £4, or a Family Ticket (2 adults and 2 children) £30 all available through the gate on show day.
Discounted advance tickets are available from pre-show ticket outlets throughout the County or on-line at www.burwartonshow.co.uk or direct from the Show Office on 01746 787535, e-mail info@burwartonshow.co.uk B u s S e r v i c e : 141 - BRIDGNORTH - LUDLOW
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Llandrindod Wells Victorian Festival 20th - 28th August
Step back in time to the bygone era of the 1800s and imagine yourself in the heart of the Victorian era. Horses clip clopping along the streets pulling carriages, urchins running along behind, ladies in their spectacular crinoline and bustle dresses, gents tipping their hats as street entertainers. This year is the 30th Anniversary of the Llandrindod Wells Victorian Festival - which promises to bring you an exciting selection of events that are sure to please the whole family. Whatever your age, you are bound to find something that will interest you and bring a smile to your face, some might even find you breaking into fits of laughter. The surrounding backdrop of incredible Victorian architecture dating from the spa town’s heyday in the late 1800’s further enhances the festivities.
Take a trip down memory lane and rekindle those feelings of nostalgia with our many entertainers. Street Entertainers will enthral you with their many skills . Appalachian Dancers, dancers take to the streets. Watch the spectacle of the Victorian Costume Parades and best dressed competitions. Men, here’s your chance to heckle the ladies as they surge on Middleton Street as Suffragettes .
There will also be Pearlies Night, Victorian Tea Dances. Choose from a variety of talks on all subjects relating to the Victorian era. Exhibitions are of plenty and local clubs and organisations have really pulled out the stops to produce interesting displays. Look out for our very own ‘Queen Victoria’
The culmination of the festival is a stunning torchlight procession and spectacular fireworks display over the town’s beautiful lake. A breathtaking sight not to be missed.
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With many, many more events going on throughout the 9 days, there is sure to be something for every member of the family and we hope that you come along and experience all the fun of the festival for yourselves. For more information please contact: Sheila Richards, Festival Administrator Victorian Festival, Wadham House, Middleton Street, Llandrindod Wells, Powys, LD1 5DG Tel: 01597 823441 email: info@victorianfestival.co.uk, www.victorianfestival.co.uk
KING ARTHUR’S LABYRINTH
King Arthur’s Labyrinth (between Machynlleth and Dolgellau in Mid Wales) takes visitors, by underground boat, through a gushing waterfall and across a thousand years, back to the time of King Arthur.
Wales’ leading national newspaper The Western Mail said that King Arthur’s Labyrinth is ’Well worth a Visit’ they were absolutely right.
Once inside the Labyrinth, you’ve travelled back to the darkest of the Dark Ages when the native Celtic people are defending themselves against the all powerful Saxon invaders. Out of the darkness came Arthur… His feats of bravery, his supernatural powers and his strength of leadership brought defeat to his enemies and peace to the island of Britain. His fame was sung throughout the land. Enjoy myths, legends and stories from the Dark Ages and from the time of King Arthur as you are guided around torchlit tunnels and vast underground caverns by your mysterious hooded boatman. Stories of dragons, mighty battles, ferocious giants and many more come to life with dramatic scenes, light shows and sound effects. As your journey ends the mysterious boatman sails you out of the Labyrinth and back to the present day – but be warned, beware of the Dragon....
Dry when wet, cool when hot this is the perfect all-weather attraction for all ages.
Back above ground is a further attraction, Bards’ Quest. Take on the Bards’ challenge and search the paths of time for hidden myths, legends and stories. Once found, be enthralled by some great stories from Wales.
King Arthur’s Labyrinth opens daily from 10am - 5pm from mid March to the end of October.
King Arthur’s Labyrinth is perfect for Groups and School Visits. Preferential rates are available for groups of 15 or more. Tours of the Labyrinth start from Corris Craft Centre which is located on the main A487 road between Machynlleth and Dolgellau.
A further attraction, the Bards’ Quest also starts from Corris Craft Centre. Admission to the Bards' Quest is half price when purchased with admission to the Labyrinth tour.
King Arthur’s Labyrinth is easily accessible by public transport. There are direct trains from Birmingham to Machynlleth every two hours. There are regular buses from Aberystwyth, Machynlleth and Dolgellau (X 32 stops outside, 34 stops in Corris). Sustrans cycle route 8 passes nearby.
Telephone 01654 761584 www.kingarthurslabyrinth.co.uk
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SHREWSBURY MUSEUM & ART GALLERY
Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery at Rowley’s House is the headquarters of Shrewsbury Museums Service (see also Shrewsbury Castle and Coleham Pumping Station). From December 2008, Rowley’s House has also become the temporary home of Shrewsbury’s Visitor Information Centre. This follows the opening of Shrewsbury’s brand new Theatre Severn and the planned redevelopment of the old Music Hall as a major new Museum and Visitor Centre.
Rowley’s House is a timber-framed building, originally a merchant’s warehouse of the 16th or early 17th Century. The museum also includes the adjoining stone and brick Rowley’s Mansion, of about 1618. Both buildings are connected with the draper and brewer William Rowley (1572-1645.) They are of considerable historic importance and there is a lot of interest in their future once the Museums Service has moved out in 2011. The collections of Shrewsbury Museums Service comprise about 166,000 items including Geology, Natural History, Archaeology, Social History, Fine and Decorative Arts. Some are of national and regional importance, including excavated items from the Roman town of Viroconium at Wroxeter (such as a beautiful silver mirror, and the carved forum inscription),
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and large collections of Caughley and Coalport Porcelain. Rowley’s has been bursting at the seams and this is part of the reason for the planned move, which will enable display of a much greater proportion of these fine collections at any one time and will provide high-quality visitor access, facilities and a range of activities for all.
The collections of artefacts and specimens held in Rowley’s House are being comprehensively audited. The audit team comprises some 40 volunteers from throughout the county.
The Museum & Art Gallery at Rowley’s House remains open to the public as development work is taking place. Activities continue to take place including outreach, workshops, exhibitions and lectures. All of which are designed to trial services to be delivered in the new facility and provide visitors with further information about the project, encourage feedback for consultation purposes whilst maintaining a good visitor experience and Visitor Information Centre function. Please visit Rowley’s House for more information.
Telephone: 01743 281205 museums@shrewsbury.gov.uk www.shrewsburymuseums.com www.darwincountry.org
B u s S e r v i c e : SHREWSBURY PARK & RIDE (OXON, MEOLE BRACE & HARLESCOTT) (BARKER STREET) N e a r e s t R a i l w a y S t a t i o n : Shrewsbury
SHREWSBURY CASTLE & SHROPSHIRE REGIMENTAL MUSEUM
Shrewsbury Castle stands on high ground at the neck of a loop of the River Severn. A castle was first built here soon after the Norman Conquest, by Roger de Montgomery - although, not surprisingly for such a defensive location, evidence of Saxon earthworks have been found.
The castle was an important strategic point in the 13th Century Welsh Campaigns, but fell into disuse until Elizabethan times, when it was leased by Elizabeth I to Richard Onslow who began to convert it in to a private house.
The castle was re-fortified by the Royalists in the Civil War, but after a brief siege, surrendered to the Parliamentarians without firing a shot. After the restoration of Charles II many of the castle’s fortifications were pulled down, and it became a private residence until 1910. Thomas Telford was responsible for a major 18th century refurbishment.
In 1924 the Castle was purchased by the Shropshire Horticultural Society and given to the Borough of Shrewsbury and Atcham.
In 1985 the disparate collections of the military units associated with Shropshire were brought
together in the main hall of the Castle. The Shropshire Regimental Museum houses an impressive collection of artefacts. The museum is clearly laid out in the East Tower and the Main Hall, covering a timeline from the 18th Century to the present day.
There are many display cases containing fullsized uniformed models, numerous medals and weaponry.
For the younger visitors there is a questionnaire which requires close attention to the displays and highlights a number of the interesting and unusual exhibits.
For details of castle and museum opening times in 2011, please call 01743 358516, see the Shrewsbury Museums brochure, or visit www.shrewsburymuseums.com.
Further information about the Shropshire Regimental Museum at www.shropsrm@zoom.co.uk
B u s S e r v i c e : SHREWSBURY PARK & RIDE (OXON, MEOLE BRACE & HARLESCOTT) (RAILWAY STATION/CASTLE ST) N e a r e s t R a i l w a y S t a t i o n : Shrewsbury
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SHREWSBURY’S MUSIC HALL DEVELOPMENT
The Music Hall development contains a unique collection of buildings including the Grade II* listed 13th century Vaughan’s Mansion, the Grade II listed Music Hall and Assembly Rooms, a medieval shut called Fire Office Passage, 18th century prison cells and 20th century emergency HQ.
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Old Music Hall
The facility is due to be open to the public in 2012 and will provide a seamless connection between the visitor experience, historic collections, standing archaeology and the visual arts.
The Music Hall will, for the first time, enable Shropshire Council to protect, display and interpret its collections in purpose-designed facilities
Section of the complex
and to present them in new and imaginative ways, by making use of contemporary interpretative display techniques. It will also offer a programme of education and learning activities and provide a resource for both visitors and residents. The venue will offer trading and catering facilities as well as cultural events, corporate hospitality and house the town’s Visitor Information Centre.
Development of both formal and informal learning packages has begun in consultation with young people, schools, colleges, universities and a range of stake holder groups. Education packages are currently being trialled at Rowley’s House and will continue to be developed to ensure a comprehensive education programme can be delivered as soon as the Music Hall is open to the public. Telephone: 01743 281205 museums@shrewsbury.gov.uk www.shrewsburymuseums.com
B u s S e r v i c e : SHREWSBURY PARK & RIDE (OXON, MEOLE BRACE & HARLESCOTT) (BARKER STREET)
Vaughan’s Mansion
Home Farm Attingham Welcome to our working dairy and arable organic farm.
• see the jersey cows being milked - 3.30 every afternoon • tearoom: drinks, home made cakes & organic ice cream • picnic tables • play area • feed the animals • special events throughout the year
Open Daily April - October Weekends only October - 19th December Adults £3.50, OAPs £3.00, Children over 3 £2.25, under 3 FREE, Family ticket (2+2) £10 Telephone 01743 709243 www.homefarmattingham.co.uk
N e a r e s t R a i l w a y S t a t i o n : Shrewsbury
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COLEHAM PUMPING STATION, SHREWSBURY that past and still plays a central role in Shrewsbury’s sewage management. Nowadays, there are electrical pumps, operated remotely by Severn Trent Water.
The Museum comprises the Pumping Station buildings, the beam-engines and boilers, ancillary equipment and some objects from the collections of Shrewsbury Museums Service, plus other items belonging to Shrewsbury Steam Trust.
Longden Road, Shrewsbury Coleham Pumping Station, resembling a Victorian Chapel in style, was built in 1900 to house two massive steam-driven beam engines. These were built in-situ by Renshaws of Stoke in 1897/1898, to pump sewage as part of Shrewsbury’s new sewerage system. These coalfired pumps were used until 1970. Ownership of the building, pumps and grounds was transferred to Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council in 1974, since when the Pumping Station has been managed by Shrewsbury Museums Service.
The Pumping Station is currently opened to the public on pre-advertised Sundays during the spring and summer. One of the Cornish boilers was restored to steam by members of the Trust in 2002, and normally both the beam engines are operated under steam during these weekend openings.
Group and educational visits can be arranged on the Mondays following these dates, to take advantage of the steaming, or at other times by arrangement, without steam.
Telephone: 01743 281205 www.shrewsburymuseums.com
Shrewsbury Steam Trust was originally founded in 1992 under the ‘umbrella’ of The County of Salop Steam Engine Society Ltd., to restore the steam engines at Coleham Pumping Station. It is now an independent charitable trust with the same aim.
The Coleham area of Shrewsbury has an industrial past that is, perhaps, second only to Ironbridge as far as Shropshire is concerned. Coleham Pumping Station is the last remnant of
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B u s S e r v i c e : 544 - SHREWSBURY - LITTLE LYTH 546 - SHREWSBURY - PULVERBATCH N e a r e s t R a i l w a y S t a t i o n : Shrewsbury
BRIDGNORTH CLIFF RAILWAY
For over a century Bridgnorth Cliff Railway has been transporting the people of Bridgnorth up and down the 111 ft sandstone cliffs that separate High Town from Low Town and the River Severn. It is first and foremost a working railway; its importance to both the townspeople of Bridgnorth and to visitors to the town is undiminished by age.
The railway operates two carriages on parallel tracks. Connected by steel cables, the carriages serve to counterbalance each other - as one rises to the top station, the other runs to the bottom station. The cars are now powered by an electric winding engine, but were originally driven by a system of water balance, each carriage carrying water ballast in a tank beneath the passenger compartment.
Next to the Top Station are The Winding House Tearooms viewing panels through to the Engine Room, and a Terrace area with wonderful views across the River Severn.
Directly above the Bottom Station, the newlyrefurbished Stoneway Guest house offers a unique B&B experience.
Do visit England’s only remaining inland electric funicular railway !
Telephone 01746 762052 www.bridgnorthcliffrailway.co.uk
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THE JUDGE’S LODGING and make yourself at home, for The Judge’s Lodging an historic house with a difference – you can touch! You can lie on the beds, read the judge’s books and even pump water in the kitchen. Below stairs there is the full range of servants’ rooms to explore, with kitchens, sleeping quarters and workrooms; a whole gaslit world to discover. The tour is finished by a trip to the vast echoing courtroom, where you are haunted by the echoes of trials long since concluded. You are guided through this Victorian world by an eavesdropping’ audiotour featuring the voice of actor Robert Hardy.
Do you know the correct way to run a bath? How can you trap insects with a turnip? What was the first thing Queen Victoria did after her coronation? These and many other questions are answered on the new Judge’s Lodging website. This Victorian museum in Presteigne has long had a reputation for liking the quirkier side of history, so the new site is packed with handy hints the Victorian way, recipes for icecream and jelly, strange facts, along with information about the building and learning resources. Visit it and you will be guaranteed to find something to fascinate. Visit the museum itself and you will be in for an even bigger treat, for this award-winning historic judge’s accommodation and court offers a most unusual journey back in time. Wander through the judge’s private apartments
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If you have children to entertain, you don’t have to worry about being told off every time they move, because the building is family-friendly. They have their own activities and guidebook to help them explore … and 2011 is a perfect time for them to experience all this as the museum has just made its admission for children even cheaper!
2011 is an exciting time at The Judge’s Lodging, as it plans to start unveiling its extensive local history collection. With a permanent area on the town and the rural communities surrounding it due to open late summer, there will be a complimenting new temporary exhibition gallery, featuring a varied programme of displays and an exciting events programme to match.
You may also spot the museum on TV, as it played host to Welsh channel S4C throughout last year to film their new history series on Victorian living. Filming ranged from the gross
Servants Hall
to the hilarious. With a parrot learning to talk Welsh, tests on fire-retardant nightdresses, elaborate cooking experiments (one causing residents to actually complain of the smell!), makeup tips the Victorian way and much more.
For any information on the museum and any of its activities, visit the website or just call the staff who are always happy to chat.
Telephone 01544 260650 www.judgeslodging.org.uk
S4C - Byw yn OĚ‚l y Llyfr - Nadolig
IRONBRIDGE GORGE MUSEUMS
Ironbridge Gorge Museums to Host Science, Sport, Life Festival, in run up to 2012 London Games The Ironbridge Gorge Museums will be hosting an exciting series of events, activities and exhibitions as part of the West Midlands’ Cultural Olympiad in the run-up to the 2012 London Games, with the generous support of Renaissance West Midlands. The multi-site Science, Sport, Life Festival will run from late March 2011 to September 2012 featuring activities at Blists Hill Victorian Town, Enginuity design and technology centre and Coalbrookdale Gallery.
Enginuity is the venue for Our Sporting Life, The Science of Sport exhibition, which will demonstrate the science behind modern, highperformance sports. Open from 4th April 2011 to 9th September 2012, a highlight will be the Olympic gold medal Team GB’s winning eight rowing boat from the 2000 Sydney Olympics, on loan from the Henley River & Rowing Museum.
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The Our Sporting Life, Sporting Heroes exhibition at Coalbrookdale Gallery will feature images from football, cricket and quoit teams to rowing clubs and coracle racing. It will also include sporting heroes such as Captain Webb, the first man to swim the English Channel, and football legend Billy Wright. Open 10am-5pm, mainly Monday-Friday, this free entry exhibition will run from 21st March 2011 until 29th February 2012.
Both of these exhibitions are part of the national Our Sporting Life initiative.
Over the Cultural Olympiad weekend, 23rd – 24th July, the Museum will be running two events with a sporting theme. On Saturday 23rd The Green at Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron will host the Science, Sport, Life Festival where visitors will be able to try various sports including fencing, cricket and archery, while at Enginuity they can have fitness assessments and try a variety of health based challenges.
On Sunday 24th July Blists Hill will stage its own Community Games, another national initiative. Visitors will be able to watch traditional Victorian activities such as croquet and join in quirky challenges including leek flinging.
From 1st April a Passport to all ten Ironbridge Gorge Museums valid for twelve months and multiple visits costs £22.50 for adults, £18.25 for the 60 plus, £14.75 for children (up to 18 years in full time education) and £61.50 for families; under 5s free. Individual admission is available into all sites. For further information call Ironbridge Tourist Information Centre on 01952 433 424, www.ironbridge.org.uk.
Rowing Eight Gold Medal Winners Sydney Olympics 2000 © Peter Spurrier, Intgersport Image
Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site 25th Anniversary
Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site will be celebrating its 25th anniversary during 2011. To mark the occasion an exhibition will take place from 1st July to 30th September in the Footprint Gallery at Jackfield Tile Museum, with displays featuring historic images and community memories of the Gorge.
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LLANYMYNECH LIMEWORKS
Heritage Area Follow the path taken by the limestone quarried from Llanymynech Rocks down the inclined planes to the lime kilns and thence to the canal or railway. Visit one of only 3 remaining Hoffman Kilns in the country (the only one complete with chimney) and explore it both inside and out! You can also wander and picnic in the woodland and meadows. The site is always open. There is car parking adjacent to the canal or behind the Dolphin pub in the village.
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Visit the website www.llanymynech.org.uk to download a map and other information, ring 01691 839147, or email llanymynech@hotmail.co.uk
Location: on the A483 next to the canal in Llanymynech. Grid Ref: SJ266211. Post Code SY22 6EA
Postal address The Llimeys, c/o 6 Edwards Close, Briggs Lane, Pant, Oswestry, SY10 8PS
WHITCHURCH HERITAGE CENTRE 2011 Opening Hours:
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
Whitchurch is Shropshire's only town to be continually inhabited on the same site since being built in Roman times.
10.00 10.00
closed 10.00 10.00 10.00 -
4.00 4.00
4.00 4.00 1.00
FREE ENTRY All areas wheelchair accessible Disabled parking adjacent to Heritage Centre Tourist Information & Shop on premises.
The current displays, exhibits, and activities in the Heritage Centre reflect the town's historic roots.
Many of the exhibits are geared towards children and are very much hands on with a Roman Archaeology sand pit where coins and a skull can be uncovered and a brass rubbing table where budding artists can create their own masterpieces to take home.
There is also a giant puzzle depicting a typical nursery rhyme theme created from an illustration by the famous Victorian Illustrator Randolph Caldecott. The Caldecott Gallery houses a fine collection of artwork, books, photographs & memorabilia relating to the composer Edward German and artist Randolph Caldecott.
Contact Details : 12 St Mary's Street Whitchurch Shropshire SY13 1QY
Phone : 01948 664577 Fax : 01948 665432 Email : whitchurch.heritage@ukonline.co.uk Web : www.whitchurch-heritage.co.uk
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DANIELS MILL
A picturesque working water mill with 38ft. cast iron waterwheel producing wholemeal flour traditionally. Family owned for 250 years. Personal guided tours for all visitors, by millers Alan & Peter George.
Daniels Mill is set in the idyllic Shropshire countryside, deep in a wooded valley crossed by a 19th Century viaduct carrying the Severn Valley Railway to Bridgnorth. Visitors are taken back in time when the mill wheel turns and a steam train crosses the viaduct at the same time. Heavy French Burr millstones turn locally grown wheat into flour in the traditional way used for centuries.
There are conducted tours for all visitors to the mill. A small gift shop is open and 100% wholemeal flour is available for sale. The tea room offers scones made from our own flour.
Organised parties and schools are welcome by prior appointment throughout the year. Evening
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parties accepted throughout the year. Please allow up to 2 hours to visit. Reductions for parties numbering 20 and over. Light refreshments available by arrangment.
Directions
Daniels Mill is brown sign posted from Bridgnorth. From the Severn Valley Railway in Bridgnorth (Holybush Road) turn onto B4363 Cleobury Mortimer road. After ¼ mile turn right on to the B455 towards Eardington. Daniels Mill is situated approx ¾ mile on right.
Prices
£4.00 Adults, £3.00 Concessions
Open Times
1st April - 31st October, 11am-4pm
Telephone 01746 762753 www.danielsmill.co.uk
Shifnal Museum & Archive Centre
Shifnal Museum and Archive Centre opened in December 2009 in the former Fire Station in Shrewsbury Road . There is a good display of photographs of the town, showing how it has changed over the years, and a collection of articles from days gone by is being built up.
The museum holds lots of useful information on the people in the town’s past, such as births deaths and marriages, and census information right back to 1841.
The Museum is open on Thursday afternoons from 2.00 to 4.00, and on Saturday mornings from 10.00 to 12.00. There are also special events throughout the year.
Shrewsbury Road, Shifnal.
Ditton Priors Local History Centre The Centre holds an extensive archive, much of it on a database, on the history of the village. There is a recently researched story of Ditton's wartime Admiralty Armaments Depot, and the next project is on evacuees in the village.
The Centre is adjacent to the Oak Farm shop and Tearooms, which are open Wednesday to Saturday throughout the year.
Opening hours in 2011 are Saturdays, 12pm to 4pm, from Saturday April 2nd to Saturday October 29th.
Ditton Priors Local History Centre By Oak Farm Tearoom Station Road Ditton Priors WV16 6SS
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OSWESTRY VISITOR & EXHIBITION CENTRE
The Centre is set within Oswestry Parish Churchyard formerly called Holbache House it was the second oldest grammar school founded in 1407. It now houses Oswestry Tourist Information centre, a coffee shop and art exhibitions which change monthly.
Opening times; Every day except Sunday 10am4pm. Longer opening in summer.
Entry is free
Postcode SY11 2TE Telephone 01691 662753 www.oswestry-welshborders.org.uk ot@oswestry-welshborders.org.uk
Oswestry Market
Markets have existed in Oswestry for centuries and they’ve been a major part of the town’s trading and historical importance. They remain one
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of the town’s biggest attractions, drawing visitors from far and wide. Oswestry Town Council, who manage the towns markets, think they still have a huge amount to offer, and they are working hard to ensure that they are around for a long time to come. Markets all around the country have recently been getting lots of support from central funds, as well as recognition of how vital they are for communities and what a great way they are to start up in business.
The Powis Hall Indoor Market Hall was originally maintained by the Lord of the Manor, and was the Town Hall until premises were built next door in 1782. From then until 1960 the building was a corn exchange, then a butter and cheese market, and during the Second World War for emergency storage and by the auxiliary fire service. www.oswestry-tc.gov.uk
BRIDGNORTH’S NORTHGATE MUSEUM
Come and see a great collection of items covering over 2,000 years of local history.
Visit the Northgate Museum in high town Bridgnorth. Packed full of treasures, (there are over 4000 items in the collection) the museum should be the first stop for anyone wanting to discover the history of the town and the local area. From an Edwardian till to a model of Trevithick’s Steam Engine, The museum’s collection will interest the whole family.
The museum, founded in 1951, is run by volunteers from the Bridgnorth & District Historical Society, which is a registered Charity.
There is no charge for admission, but the museum relies on donations and museum sales to remain open. Fully accredited by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council.
Opening times: from April to October Saturdays 1.30 pm to 4 pm Sundays 11.00 am to 4 pm Bank Holidays 11.00 am to 4 pm School Holidays (every day) 11.00 am to 4 pm
www.bridgnorthmuseum.org.uk Postcode : WV16 5AE
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CLUN MUSEUM There are two audio guides, two large print and two Braille Guides together with an illuminated tactile map of Clun for partially sighted and blind visitors.
The Museum houses a multitude of local historical and agricultural artefacts and possesses an important collection of some 6,000 flints.
The two silver Maces of the Borough of Clun, dating back to Elizabethan times (1580 & 1680) together with the Seal are on display on Bank Holidays.
The whole operation is serviced by dedicated volunteer Stewards who give their time freely and willingly. You will be warmly welcomed and any query that you might have will receive their best attention and advice.
Ground Floor - The items on display reflect the diversity of Trades in this once self contained town—the centre of a large Farming community : Smithy · Wheelwright · Clog maker · Saddler · Tailor · Baker · Brewer · to name but a few. It also houses a nationally recognised collection of Flints which were traded along the Clun/Clee Ridgeway.
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First Floor - Here the main theme is local memorabilia from both the First and Second World Wars, including several uniforms, and information on evacuees housed here. Also there is a plan of the railway line, proposed one hundred years ago from Craven Arms to Clun. A stairlift is installed for easy access and a ramp available at Main Entrance.
Children, Schools, Historical Societies and Clubs are very welcome and special opening times arranged to suit their needs by contacting the Curator. There are Children’s Activity Sheets available for both floors so that they may discover and identify artefacts and their usage.
Opening Times
Easter - 31st October TUESDAYS: 2.00pm - 5.00pm SATURDAYS & BANK HOLIDAYS: (Mondays & Tuesdays) 11.00am - 1.00pm 2.00pm - 5.00pm
For special openings at other times Contact Curator: J Kent Tomey · Stapledon Mount Pleasant · Clun · SY7 8JJ Tel/Fax 01588 640681 Email: jkenttomey@talktalk.net
Nominal charge 50p. Under 16’s/students Free
MARKET DRAYTON’S OWN MUSEUM
The story of Drayton
It’s called “The Story of Drayton”, because that’s exactly what it is.
It’s all about the Town. Everything in the Collection was donated by the people of Market Drayton, used by them, and often manufactured by them. So the families, lifestyle, events, and stories emerge from all these bits and pieces.... more than 10,000 of them, collected over the course of nearly thirty years..
In the Shop they sell the Town. That’s to say you will be given a potted history in five quick chapters, from earliest times to the present. There’s also the odd diversion and digression. Don’t miss the house behind, where a home is on display.... with the trophies on the mantelpiece, china in the dresser, books in the bookcase, medicine in the bathroom, and so on in kitchen, yard and outhouse. Here, as you can imagine, the past often rubs shoulders with the present.
The things you can see range from a prehistoric plant stem to a hand-pulled hearse, a bottle collection, panoramic school photographs, a horsedrawn seed drill, lamps, money boxes, and mangles. And you’ll find stories ranging from Clive of India’s pies to gingerbread secrets, the WC War, and death at the theatre, not to
mention Arthur Phillips’ vertical take-off aircraft of 1908.
The Museum is open from May to September on four mornings a week – Tuesday and Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Admission is free and is within easy reach of the Town Centre at 53 Shropshire Street. You are assured of a warm welcome, at the same time helping you share the past (and present) of this the largest and most important market town in the area. http://www.peter-quita.demon.co.uk/ museum/home.htm Postcode : TF9 1HG
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TANAT VALLEY LIGHT RAILWAY
Tanat Valley Light Railway Company, Nant Mawr Visitor Centre, Nant Mawr, Near Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 9DW
Telephone 01948 - 781079 website tvlr.co.uk e-mail admin@tvlr.co.uk
Just off the A495 at Porthywaen near Oswestry
Opening times from Easter to September open 10 - 5 every day, other times open most Tuesdays and Weekends, group visits or tours by prior arrangement, phone for details Facilities include Toilet, woodland walks, nature trail, picnic area, car parking, small museum, wildlife pond, all free to visit (donations very welcome).
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However, please note that it is unlikely that there will be any train services operating during 2011 due to ongoing track restoration and building work.
The Spaceguard Centre www.spaceguarduk.com Could this happen ? Can we do anything about it ? Come and find out.
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Open all year, Wed-Sun. Conducted tours at 10.30, 2 & 4pm (May-Sept) Call 01547 520247 for availability
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THE SEVERN VALLEY RAILWAY AND THE ENGINE HOUSE AT HIGHLEY
It’s amazing how quickly a new attraction can seem as though it has been there for years. This is clearly the case with The Engine House, the Visitor & Education Centre at Highley on the Severn Valley Railway. Although it actually only opened at Easter 2008, it has already become an essential part of a visit to the Railway.
The SVR celebrated it’s 40th anniversary last year and on May 23rd, it was 40 years to the day when the first public steam train departed from Bridgnorth for the then terminus at Hampton Loade. There were various celebratory events during the year and The Engine House played a full part in them, including hosting displays and exhibitions marking this remarkable milestone. B u s S e r v i c e : 125 - BRIDGNORTH - KIDDERMINSTER 436 - BRIDGNORTH - SHREWSBURY
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The Engine House
© Debbie Piggott
Perhaps the most surprising exhibit is the first item you see. At the entrance sits a Morris Minor, which although it seems incongruous, actually acts as a reminder of the role of the motor car in the demise of the railway branch line. The building can house up to 10 locomotives which are displayed long with special sound effects and dry ice. You can explore the engines - there is even wheelchair access to one of them - and both from the gallery above, and from ground level (which is actually below the normal platform height) you can really appreciate the size and power of these engines.
Other exhibits inside include an illustration of the restoration work, an explanation of how a steam locomotives works and a re-creation of
The Engine House at Highley
the founding meeting of the SVR in the Coopers Arms pub in Kidderminster.
It is a very accessible visitor centre with something for the whole family; there are baby-changing facilities, an outdoor play area and a very spacious outdoor picnic table area. Don’t forget to visit Buffers Cafe Restaurant and watch the trains go by as you eat at a table on the spacious outdoor balcony, which has great views of the valley, the river and the railway!
Make sure you break your journey there and spend some time at The Engine House at Highley – when it is combined with a relaxing journey along the whole Severn Valley Railway, it makes for a great day out on the line !
Up close at The Engine House
Special Events 2011 • Land Rover Line Up - May 15th • The Sounds of the 1960s - May 20th - 22nd • 1940s Weekends - June 25/26th & July 2/3rd • The Great Train Dance - July 23rd • Severn Valley in Bloom - July 23rd - 24th • Seaside Special - August 27th -29th • On the Buses - September 18th •Autumn Steam Gala - September 23rd - 25th • Diesel Enthusiasts Gala - October 6th - 8th • Classic Car and Bike Day - October 9th • Take the Ghost Train - October 22nd - 30th • Remembrance Day Service - November 13th • Santa Steam Specials - December 3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th, 17th, 18th & 24th
Telephone 01299-403816 for the SVR: or 01746-862387 for The Engine House: Visit www.svr.co.uk
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TELFORD STEAM RAILWAY
Telford Steam Railway is based at “Horsehay and Dawley� station and goods yard in Telford, the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. Originally on the Great Western branchline from Wellington to Craven Arms via Ironbridge.
The site at Horsehay has a longer history, being at the site of one of the Coalbrookdale Companies first blast furnaces. A narrow gauge tramway served the surrounding ironworks and
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mines, originally wooden railed, but replaced by some of the first iron ones in the world.
The furnaces gave way to steel works and eventually becoming a crane manufacturer who utilised rail transport until the early eighties.
The through rail link from Wellington to Craven Arms had been closed in stages, beginning with the Craven Arms to Much Wenlock section in
The goods yard at Horsehay and Dawley was acquired in 1983 and along with the goods transhipment shed dating from 1860, is now the operating base of Telford Steam Railway, with easy access car and coach parking available.
Since then much has happened, regular trains operate on all Sundays and Bank Holidays from Easter to the end of September along the original line as far as Heath Hill Tunnel. The line is being extended in both directions, under the heading of “Steaming to Ironbridge”, planning out the eventual return of the railway to the World Heritage Site of the Ironbridge Gorge. This is a phased project with the initial focus of work on a new terminal at Lawley which is scheduled for opening within a short timescale.
The season now includes many enthusiast and family “special events”, such as Easter Bunny, Teddy Bears Picnics, Model and Collectors shows and Transport Galas.
Competition
Two family tickets available - email the editor with the number of counties featured on the Countysignpost web site ! 1951. Horsehay and Dawley saw its last passenger train in 1962 but the route from Lightmoor to Horsehay was kept open for the transportation of bridge sections, the last regular shipment leaving in 1979.
Telford Development Corporation purchased an ex GWR 56XX tank locomotive number 5619 in 1974.Telford Horsehay Steam Trust was formed in 1976 with the objective of restoring 5619.
They operate a unique narrow gauge steam tram, built for Telford Town Park, but now based at Horsehay, giving rides around the edge of Horsehay Pool. There is an extensive model railway display and the affiliated Phoenix Model Engineers operate ride-on miniature railway.
During your visit, take a break in the café, ‘The Furnaces Tea Room’ and sample the home made cakes and simple refreshments. The souvenir shop also has much to offer including Thomas toys, new and second hand books and items to interest older railway enthusiasts!
Father Christmas visits every year for his traditional visit on the last three weekends before Christmas. The train transports children of all ages on a magical journey to visit Santa in his grotto. Little children are then given a present while their parents are able to have free refreshments.
Telephone 07816 762790 www.telfordsteamrailway.co.uk
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PARK HALL, OSWESTRY The Countryside Experience Discover the delights of Park Hall Countryside Experience, the national award winning farm attraction near Oswestry.
This amazing family farm park is like no other. There’s a day packed with action, fun and adventure waiting for all the family, and with a generous helping of cuddly and friendly animals for everyone to enjoy, there’s not a minute to waste.
Get up close to your farmyard favourites with a regular schedule of interactive events. Feed and pet the Kune Kune pigs; groom the miniature Shetland pony, or be enchanted by the sheer magnificence of Charm and Rio the heavy horses. Don’t miss your opportunity to hand milk a real cow or cuddle up to the adorable bunnies and guinea pigs in the small animal centre. Just jump on the cart ride to see more animals around the farm.
Action packed fun can be found in two massive indoor play barns. The main arena has a large toy tractor circuit and bouncy castles while the Warren Playbarn has the traditional nets, slides and ropes.
Outside the action continues at the Crazy Farm Adventure Course and at the fantastic climbing areas in the woodland. There are also play houses for younger visitors and great walks for all the family.
Best of all for the kids are the brilliant driving activities. The junior driving school, the 4x4 land-rovers and quad bikes offer a range of driving fun for different ages. Have a go on the mechanical diggers and test your co-ordination skills too.
When you are ready to slow down the pace wander through the Welsh Guards Museum, visit the Victorian School or take a walk to the Iron Age Roundhouse. These fascinating heritage exhibits are well interpreted so there’s lots to learn too.
Two exciting new ventures open in April.
On April 2 a season of Pig Racing begins at the farm. A first for Shropshire, these pig races promise to be quite a spectacle. Visitors can
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shout, cheer and generally urge on the pigs as they trot down the straight to the finishing post. Races will take place every afternoon at weekends and school holidays throughout the summer.
The second venture launching on April 9 is the Barrel Train ride. Each individual Smiley Bugz barrel trailer is linked with other barrels to form an off road train drawn by a small tractor. The barrel train will run to the woodland several times a day.
There are numerous seasonal activities happening throughout the year, these include lamb feeding, pig racing, Easter egg hunts, summer maize maze, Halloween and the wonderful The Santa Experience.
Shrewsbury Museums Service
Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery
So treat the kids to a truly memorable family day out and get involved with the farming fun at this national award-winning family attraction.
Details at www.parkhallfarm.co.uk Telephone 01691671123 or email info@parkhallfarm.co.uk
Park Hall Countryside Experience, Burma Road, Oswestry, Shropshire. SY11 9AS.
Shrewsbury Castle & The Shropshire Regimental Museum
Coleham Pumping Station
The Iron Age Roundhouse
Telephone 01743 281205 Or visit www.shrewsburymuseums.com
B u s S e r v i c e : 70 - SHREWSBURY - OSWESTRY N e a r e s t R a i l w a y S t a t i o n : GOBOWEN
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ROYAL AIR FORCE MUSEUM, COSFORD
Restaurant serving hot and cold meals and snacks. The Checkpoint Charlie Café serving light snacks and drinks and the well stocked Museum Shop are both located within The National Cold War Exhibition.
Access around the Museum is easy with wide aisles for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Wheelchairs and electronic scooters are available free on arrival at the admissions desk, on a first come first served basis. The Royal Air Force Museum Cosford houses one of the largest aviation collections in the United Kingdom. 70 historic aircraft are displayed in three wartime hangars and within the National Cold War Exhibition.
This landmark building contains 18 aircraft, military transport, missiles, memorabilia, interactive kiosks and hotspots of information. This unique exhibition reflects the social, cultural and political history of the Cold War era circa 1947 – 1989, in a fun and innovative way. A major feature of this unique exhibition is Britain’s three post-war V-Bombers the Vulcan, Victor and Valiant. A Number of these aircraft are suspended in flying attitudes including a Dakota, Canberra, Meteor, Lightning and Javelin. Visitors are able to view them from an elevated viewing gallery. RAF Museum Cosford is one day that everyone from small children upwards will enjoy whatever the weather. Children and adults alike will be fascinated by fun ‘n’ flight. Packed with hands on excitement, it’s the easy way to answer all those questions about how aircraft stay up in the air. The advanced flight simulator is also a great way to get an instant flying experience. The Visitor Centre is home to the Refuel
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Opening Times
Open daily 10am – 6pm (last admission 5pm) including Bank Holidays. Closed 24-26 December and 1, 9-13 January 2012.
Admission is FREE of charge.
Directions
By Road From Junction 3 of the M54 take the A41 south towards Wolverhampton. Follow brown tourist signs to Royal Air Force Museum. By Rail Cosford Train Station is located on the Central Trains Birmingham to Shrewsbury line (via Wolverhampton) then a half mile walk. Please check timetable before visiting. By Bus The 892 bus service from Wolverhampton to Wellington runs along the A41. The nearest stop is the Cosford Garage, approximately a 1 mile walk to the Museum gates. By Cycle The Museum is conveniently located along National Cycle Route 81 which runs from Wellington to Albrighton. Free cycle racks are situated next to the Museum Visitor Centre. By Air Clients can also fly into the Cosford site by prior arrangement with Air Traffic Control. Please call us first for details.
N e a r e s t R a i l w a y S t a t i o n : COSFORD
T: 01902 376200 E: cosford@rafmuseum.org W: www.rafmuseum.org
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RELAX AT RAYS FARM In 2011 Rays Farm Country Matters will be celebrating its twenty-first anniversary as a tourist attraction; it is a farm for the animals and for people who wish to enjoy a close encounter with them.
Enjoy the grace and splendour of over forty owls on display at the farm. Many of these beautiful birds have been rescued from the wild. Some arrived as injured or orphaned, all requiring much loving care for their survival. Where possible injured owls are returned to the wild.
Visitors are welcome to explore the woodland area which surrounds the farm and where they have constructed paths and bridges.
Refus - The old red steer stag
Located in the heart of the beautiful South Shropshire countryside, Rays Farm is owned and operated by Frank and Rose Cartwight and their daughter Julie. The term ‘Rays’ comes from the Anglo Saxon for streams - hence ‘the farm by the streams’.
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For those who wish to linger a little longer, amongst the collection of woodcarvings, you will find picnic tables and benches. Wild deer now use the woodland paths created for visitors. Rabbits, Badgers, Mink, Voles, Kingfishers and Woodpeckers inhabit the old woodland.
For the younger visitor, is a brand new outdoor wooden play area for the over 4s, and a reequipped indoor toddler play area; don’t miss the new well stocked sweet shop !
The Sweet Shop
Deep in the farm’s ancient woodland is a world of mystical wood carvings - tree spirits, gnomes gathering firewood, Billy Goat Gruff and the Troll, the Fox and the Gingerbread Man to name just a few. Don’t forget to look out for “Excalibur” the sword belonging to King Arthur. With over 50 carvings, some over seven foot tall, there are lots to see. Watch out for Dr Foster on his way to Gloucester and be sure to enjoy a story from one of your party in the storytelling chair by the brook.
New outdoor play area
Back at the farm take a rest in the tea-shop or browse around their interesting selection of toys and gifts.
Relax and enjoy wildlife and nature as it was intended - ancient woodlands, winding pathways, wild flowers and ferns.
Telephone 01299 841255 www.raysfarm.com
See the advert on page 7 for more details
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THE
SPACEGUARD CENTRE
The Spaceguard Centre is a working astronomical observatory that specialises in Near Earth Objects (NEOs); asteroids and comets that could potentially hit the Earth. You might have seen the movies “Deep Impact” and “Armageddon”, but the threat of NEOs hitting the Earth is more real than most people realise. The Spaceguard Centre offers the opportunity for people to visit and find out about the possibility of a genuine “Deep Impact”, and what we can do to stop such an event.
samples from impact craters. The Spaceguard Centre is an intriguing place and a great day out for anyone.
A guided tour takes you around all of the facilities at the Spaceguard Centre, looking at what we do, why we do it and how. You will learn about the threat that asteroids and comets pose to the Earth and how we could protect not just ourselves but all life on the planet.
We have a unique indoor observatory with a 13 inch telescope and a robotic telescope system capable of tracking asteroids and comets that could be a threat to the Earth. We also have a small planetarium and an orrery. There are many more fascinating exhibits such as meteorites and
There are conducted tours of the Centre every day except Mondays and Tuesdays (we are open on Bank Holidays though) at 10.30 am (May to September only), 2 pm and 4 pm. Tours last for about 1 ½ hours and cost £6 for adults and £3 for children (under 15). We advise visitors to ring ahead, just to make sure that we have places of the relevant tour, as we can only take limited numbers (25). School parties are welcome by prior arrangement.
Telephone 01547 520247 e-mail: mail@spaceguarduk.com http://www.spaceguarduk.com
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HOME FARM, ATTINGHAM
If you are visiting the National Trust’s Attingham Hall at Atcham near Shrewsbury, make time for a visit to Home Farm Attingham.
Home Farm is it is a working farm open to the public. As well as being able to look around the historic farm and see its animals, visitors are able to visit the tearooms and also buy Home Farm’s own organic dairy ice cream.
When visiting the farm, you will see a traditional, but fully working, Shropshire farm. Most of the buildings are around 200 years old and so the farm has retained a traditional feel.
There is a Jersey dairy herd of around 100 that you can see being milked every day at 3.30pm. There are also many rare breeds of cattle, pigs, sheep and fowl.
After visiting you might like to stop off for refreshments in the tearoom, make sure to try the home-made cakes and you can also buy Home Farm’s dairy ice cream made with organic Jersey milk from their own herd. For the younger visitors there is a playground and you can also buy bags of animal food to use around the farm. There are several picnic tables on the site, and dogs are welcome on leads. There is good access for disabled visitors.
Telephone 01743 709243 www.homefarmattingham.co.uk
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HAWKSTONE PARK
Historic Hawkstone Park, with its hidden pathways, concealed grottos, secret tunnels and remarkable collection of follies, is perhaps the most magical and wondrous tourist attraction Shropshire has to offer.
Created in the 18th Century by Sir Rowland Hill, the woodland fantasy of caves and cliffs has been described as a lost world deep in the heart of Shropshire and is one of the greatest naturalist landscape creations in Britain.
My son and I picked a glorious summer day to explore this English Heritage designated Grade 1 landscape, but I’m sure it is as enchanting at any time of the year. Paths twist and turn, rise and fall, and reveal something unexpected around every corner: dramatic cliffs, towers, monuments, tunnels, passageways, precipitous rock tracks, rustic ‘sofas’ and romantic secret valleys. The monument to Sir Rowland Hill bears the inscription “The righteous shall be held in everlasting remembrance” and was restored thanks to the Barclay Borthers in 1992. The view you
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are afforded after climbing the 153 steps is truly breathtaking; on a clear day you can see thirteen (of the old) counties of England & Wales !
We wandered through a grotto where legends were created, and marvelled at the natural wonder of The Cleft from the Swiss Bridge. The rest of our trek was spent along the lower walkways.
We ended our journey in the delightful Caspian Tearoom with a very welcome drink and refreshing ice-cream.
It really was an amazing day out and I would urge anyone who is capable of the full three hour walk to give it a go. If you are not feeling that energetic there are walks of one hour, two, and two-and-a-half hours also. As most of the tracks involve steep climbs and many steps, sensible walking shoes are a must, unless you merely choose to walk the Grand Valley, which is wheelchair accessible. I would also recommend taking a drink and some refreshments with you it’s a long walk ! For those less able-bodied, there are the Silver Safaris on Thursdays - June to September - which includes a complimentary LandRover to the key high points of the park (during normal opening hours, prior booking is requested).
Special Events for 2011
• April 22nd - 25th Easter Bunny’s Grotto • May 1st Dawn Chorus • June 4th, 5th,11th & 12 Rhododendron Walks • August 6th & 7th Myth & Magic • August 13th, 14th, 20th & 21st Be a Kid Again • August 27th-29th Medieval Weekend • August 29th Knights of the Damned-jousting • October 22nd-30th Children’s Halloween Trail Don’t miss the Maize Maze opening in July !
This first class tourist attraction benefits from a Three Star Country House Hotel, the Hawkstone Park Hotel, located within its grounds. The hotel has sixty en-suite bedrooms.
The site also has a picturesque tearoom serving refreshments and snacks throughout the day, a picnic pack service, gift and book shop and free parking. A packed lunch is advisable as you may be some distance from the tearoom when hunger strikes - this also makes Hawkstone Park Follies a very good value day out.
Winner of 2010 Beacon Radio ‘Shropshire’s Best’ - Best Day Time Family Attraction. Hawkstone Park has won many awards including a Civic Trust Award, a Commendation in the Heart of England Visitor Attraction of the Year and a Europa Nostra Diploma for ‘the sensitive and imaginative restoration of a unique landscape’.
Telephone 01948 841777 / 841700 www.hawkstone.co.uk
N e a r e s t R a i l w a y S t a t i o n : WEM
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25 – 30 August 2011
Musical discovery, artistic innovation and outstanding performances in the beauty of the Welsh Marches
Navarra Quartet, Tamsin Waley-Cohen Huw Watkins, Helen-Jane Howells Alissa Firsova, Festival Soloists Choir of Royal Holloway Festival Orchestra and so much more for free brochures and full programme call 01544 267800 or view www.presteignefestival.com
A wonderful way to spend a day!
Take an atmospheric steam train journey along the beautiful Severn Valley.
BRIDGNORTH • BEWDLEY • KIDDERMINSTER
Advance tickets, usually at reduced prices, available at:
www.svr.co.uk or call: 01299 403816 Mon-Fri 9.30am - 4.30pm
The Railway Station, Bewdley, Worcs DY12 1BG
Please check our website for operating dates and times.
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