Shropshire
in h association wit
The Ultimate Annual County Guide
Issue 16 - 2018
Historic Buildings | Festivals Gardens | Museums | Tourist Attractions
www.countysignpost.co.uk
A unique shopping experience where farming, food production and retail come together...
Food Hall Butchery Business of the Year 2017
Brom eld, Shropshire, SY8 2JR 01584 856 000
Watch our experts making your food through windows in the shop ~ Cheese, butter & ice-cream is made onsite using milk from our own cows ~ Our own farm reared meat is available fresh or in many of our deli products ~ Fresh bread made daily in our onsite scratch bakery go perfectly with the jams handmade on site ~ Grab a cup of our delicious coffee or award-winning hot chocolate or take a bag home
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Contents 3
4
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36
26
Page 2
Historic Buildings Pages 6
Gardens & Outdoors Pages 10
Cover image British Ironwork Centre
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34 Welcome to the 2018 edition of shropshire signpost, your indispensable guide to the best tourist attractions and days out the county has to offer.
Festivals & Shows Pages 32
Attractions & Museums
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. Published by: County Signpost Ltd Editor: Adam Davison
countysignpost.co.uk
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 2018. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.
WhIttIngton Castle
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Historic Medieval Re-enactments, Living History days as well as Plant and Craft Fairs to Outdoor Theatre Productions – visit the website for a full list of events. Costumed Guides are available (if pre-booked) for groups of 8 people or more. The tours offer visitors the chance to see into some of the locked rooms and hear stories of the Castle’s fascinating history.
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The castle is steeped in historical tales of bitter warfare, treachery, death, myths, legends and of course many ghosts and strange happenings. It is said that “The Holy Grail” was once hidden here as well as a cursed chest which is opened would bring death. The Castle is also connected to some very famous historic figures like Dick Whittington once Lord Mayor of London and Shropshire’s very own Robin Hood – Fulk FitzWarine 111. The FitzWarine family acquired Whittington Castle and in the late 12th Century Fulk FitzWarine 111 was outlawed by King John.
A fairy tale Castle, ivy clad ruined walls, medieval moat and a twin towered gatehouse entrance are the iconic features of Whittington Castle near Oswestry in Shropshire. This Castle which was the first community run Castle in the country, was re launched in 2007 after a huge restoration project and it has been drawing visitors from far and wide since.
The Castle makes the ideal group outing it has a tearoom serving sandwiches, cakes and refreshments and the speciality The Castle Cream Tea. The Castle has a well-stocked second hand bookshop area and sells souvenirs and gifts. A new bridge gives access to the inner bailey area and tower and the moat has been extended and the pavilion replaced to give view of the landscape which was once a medieval garden. Disabled toilets are available. Throughout the year there are many events from
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The Castle is available for Civil Ceremonies, Knight and Princess Birthday Parties as well as Paranormal Investigations, Group tours and School groups. The Castle has a Membership scheme and welcomes new members and those who wish to help at the Castle as volunteers. The Castle is now completely self funded. tel 01691 662500 info@whittingtoncastle.co.uk www.whittingtoncastle.co.uk Castle Grounds open All Year Free Entrance £1 to park via Pay and Display machine Tearoom/gift shop and second hand book shop open Wednesday to Sunday 10-4pm summer & Thursday to Sunday 10-4pm winter
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events for 2018
napoleonic living history Day - © huw Davies
March 30th
Planthunters Fair
April 8th
April Fools Car Show
April 1st - 2nd May 5th - 6th May 27th
Easter Egg Trail
Napoleonic Re-enactment & Living History Weekend
A Winters Tale – Festival Players. Outdoor Shakespeare.
July 28th - 29th
Multi Period Event – our largest event of the year. From Medieval to World War II – living history encampments plus demonstrations throughout the days.
October 26th - 30th
Whittington Castle Ghost Tours
August 27th
Whittington Village Vintage Fete
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ChIllIngton hall
Chillington Hall is a hidden gem on the Staffordshire/Shropshire borders between the villages of Brewood and Codsall. The enchanting 18th century Georgian house, is a product of two differing Georgian styles. The South side built in 1724 by Francis Smith of Warwick, has rooms of an intimate size contrasted with those built on a far grander scale by Sir John Soane some sixty years later. The Saloon, typical of Soane design, features a soaring ceiling topped by a great lantern with beautiful plasterwork incorporating the family coat of arms and motto.
Chillington Hall offers guided tours of this magnificent house and our knowledgeable guides will give you an in-depth history of this family home, its ancestors and contents.
The parkland, landscaped by Capability Brown, incorporates the magnificent lake and its architectural follies. It is accessed from a drive which runs alongside a manmade canal designed to give the impression of walking along a river bank.
A short walk from the Hall, through the arboretum, you will find the Chillington Model Farm. Its octagonal dovecote forms the centrepiece of an 18th century service courtyard including stables, barns, pig sties and acorn roasting house.
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For 2018 more public events are being introduced at Chillington, building on the success of the 2017 events. New events will include: The country house experience days and a Stately Home Car Boot Fair. An extra date has been added to the hugely popular guided Bluebell Walk and a return of the Plant Fair & Open Garden Day after the successful first event last year.
The Hall is also available for private group tours and has been also been used for birthday celebrations, charity events and classical music concerts. Although Chillington Hall is a grand house it retains an intimate charm which makes it an ideal setting for entertaining. telephone 01902 850236 www.chillingtonhall.co.uk WV8 1Re
events for 2018
15th April
11am - 4pm
Spring Food & Craft Fair
20th May
11am - 4pm
Plant Fair & Open Garden Day
1st July & 15th July
pre booking required
Country House Experience Days
2pm start
Guided Autumn Walk
12th & 13th May 3rd June
23rd September 14th October
21st November
2pm start 2pm start
Guided Bluebell Walks
Guided Rhododendron Walk
8am - 2pm
Stately Home Car Boot
10am - 2pm
Christmas Fair
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osWestRy
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Discover the industrial heritage with a visit to the Cambrian Heritage Railway or own Museums. Or follow the Wilfred Owen Trail to find more about the famous war poet’s childhood in Oswestry. To really get to know Oswestry, make the Towns Tourist Information Centre the first stop on your day out. You will find it in the Oswestry Visitor and Exhibition Centre through the churchyard.
oswestry award Winning Markets - open every Wednesday, Friday and saturday Markets in Oswestry date back some 800 years and remain one of the town’s biggest attractions, drawing visitors from far and wide..
Go to www.oswestry-welshborders.org.uk or contact 01691 662753 for further details on our lovely town.
The Indoor Market is open each Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and Outdoor Markets are held every Wednesday and Saturday. The market has now been extended into the street which has had a really positive effect on both the market and the town ! The local Artisan Market is also held on the last Friday of each month. Oswestry Markets received a great accolade in being awarded the Best Local Council Market for 2013 by the National Association of British Market Authorities. This acknowledged the huge investment that the Council has made in the Indoor Market in terms of facilities and promotion. Oswestry was also category winners in the 2017 Heart Of England competition and are included in the national Britain in Bloom event for 2018.
Go to www.oswestry-tc.gov.uk for further details on Oswestry’s markets. Whether you come for the weekly markets or to browse the interesting mix of small independent shops, a warm welcome is sure to make your visit quite special.
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WhIttIngton Castle The Ideal family Day out - Nr Oswestry
Tel 01691 662500 E-Mail info@whittingtoncastle.co.uk www.whittingtoncastle.co.uk
Castle Grounds open All Year Free Entrance
Ludlow Medieval Christmas Fayre 24th & 25th Nov 2018
A 12 acre, year round, plantsman’s paradise
20 Celebrating our 20th anniversary, come, eat, drink and be merry with everything from hog roasts to hot chocolate as you shop ‘til you drop with 100+ stalls of gorgeous goodies.
Buy tickets online at ludlowmedievalchristmas.
Waterfall, Glass house, plant sales, Gift shop and Tearoom. Groups welcome. info@dorothyclivegarden.co.uk Tel 01630 647237 TF9 4EU
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DoRothy ClIVe gaRDen
The Dorothy Clive Garden is managed by the umbrella organisation the Willoughbridge Garden Trust and is a registered charity. 2018 marks the 60th anniversary of becoming a trust. The aims of The Willoughbridge Garden Trust are as follows:
• to maintain, enhance and further develop a garden inspired by the memory of the late dorothy clive to be used for the enjoyment and benefit of the public. • to promote and support horticultural education for the continuing benefit of both students and the general public.
Curator of the Dorothy Clive Garden, Kathryn Robey said, ‘We are honoured to receive another award this year and we were delighted to work with Enjoy Staffordshire. We have had a great 2017 and achieving Highly Commended in this category is very encouraging as we go forward with all our plans for a bigger and better 2018.’ Why not come along to support and enjoy this inspiring garden with us? Willoughbridge Market Drayton tF9 4eU tel: 01630 647237 www.dorothyclivegarden.co.uk
These twin charitable aims underpin all our ongoing work. They provide a creative, vibrant, motivating and genuinely worthwhile structure for the charity. Both our staff and volunteers are all committed to providing our garden visitors with a stimulating and fulfilling garden trip.
The Dorothy Clive Garden was awarded the ‘Small Visitor Attraction of the Year Category’ at the Enjoy Staffordshire Tourism 2017 Awards.
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events for 2018
11th March, 10am-4pm
1st & 2nd April, 10am-5pm 30th March - 8th April, 10am-5.30pm 16th & 17th June, 10am5.30pm 1st July, 10am-5.30pm
22nd July, 10am-5.30pm 12th August, 12pm & 4pm 17th August, 6.30pm-9.45pm 26th & 27th August, 10am-5.30pm 23rd September, 10am-5.30pm
Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea
Plant Hunters Fair - Browse the many stalls provided by top, specialist, award winning nurseries with thousands of plants to choose from. Easter – Educational Garden Trails throughout the Woodland garden for the Easter Holidays.
Mini Beast Adventure Come and explore the garden via our mini beast trail around the garden. Run in conjunction with Harper Adams University Entomologists. Midsummer Garden Party to celebrate 60 years of the Dorothy Clive Garden Canine Capers
The Princess and the Giant Bring along your picnics, blankets, folding chairs & friends & family to enjoy this wonderful open-air production, filled with music, and puppetry!
Shakespeare- Loves Labour Lost Folksy Theatre will be touring in summer 2017. Bring along you picnics, blankets and folding chairs to enjoy this wonderful open-air performance Plant Hunters Fair - Browse the many stalls provided by top, specialist, award winning nurseries with thousands of plants to choose from. 7th Annual Chilli, Cheese and Chocolate Festival A fun and fiery family event.
For further information and prices please see the website: www.dorothyclivegarden.co.uk
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april 28th
So we think about festivals and we think live music, great So we think about festivals and we think live music, great food, kids entertainment, sunshine and an awesome venue…. So the newest festival bought to you by the Shropshire Festivals team is all of that ‘on steroids’. From the team behind the Shrewsbury Food Festival and Shropshire Kids Festival this event promises to be an entertainment extravaganza with all of the ingredients of their best festivals topped off with the uniqueness that a venue like Harper Adams can bring to the table. Focusing on the expertise of each of the departments at the university the festival is something special for the whole family that has never been done before. Starting with FREE entry this event is all about fun mixed up with a dollop of education. Imagine travelling the journey of ‘the cheese sandwich’ from getting hands on and milking
the cow through to making butter, mixing curds and whey, discovering the taste zones on your tongue and the hands washing hygiene. Next you need to visit the tractor in the field and see how the wheat is planted, harvested and processed through to flour. How does yeast and fermentation work and what makes a loaf of bread? Every element of the food journey will be investigated with big shiny tractors to the historical vintage machines of the past. Learn how to programme robots, meet animals, enjoy a pollination trail or chill out on the grass with a glass of gin and watch the live music. With over 50 free activities this a festival not to be missed for the whole family. This is a great opportunity to come and explore, to learn and most importantly have fun! www.fieldtoforkfestival.com harper adams University, edgmond
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Field to Fork Family Festival
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Helping you
• Find great places to go
• Discover exciting things to do
• Obtain best deals on stays
visitshropshirehills.co.uk
IRONBRIDGE.ORG.UK WHERE WILL YOUR VISIT TAKE YOU?
FROM:
WALK THE BEAT! At Blists Hill Victorian Town 10 AWARD WINNING ATTRACTIONS IN A WORLD HERITAGE SITE
TO:
BEAT THE ROBOT! At Enginuity Signpost - page 11
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Ludlow Spring Festival May 12th - 13th sPRIng FestIVal gIVes MoRe, MoRe, MoRe The 2018 Ludlow Spring Festival promises to be a real corker bringing together the very best regional beer, food, music, plus gorgeous classic cars in the form of the Marches Transport Festival. This is a beer festival and so much more, with over 200 glorious ales from more than 60 local brewers available to taste over the weekend. For those not so keen on beer, don’t worry there will also be ciders, perry, fruit flavoured liqueurs and local wines.
There will also be plenty of artisan food producers too, so don’t wait till the September Festival to stock up on your favourite products. It’s a great chance to meet producers, hear about their story and learn why they make their products.
As always, the beer and food are accompanied by a wealth of great music - from jazz and blues, to Latin and folk. There’s also The Marches Transport Festival where you can see all sorts of classic cars – from pre-war gems right through to modern day classics of the 70’s and 80’s.
This year’s Ludlow Spring Festival runs 12th13th May – and there’s also a special preview evening on Friday 11th May (5pm-9pm) when visitors can ‘Meet the Brewer’. It’s a unique opportunity to talk to brewers about their beers and sample the full selection. With prizes handed out early in the weekend, favourites sell out quickly so the Friday preview is an opportunity not to be missed.
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We have Early Bird and Pre Festival discounts available this year – visit our website for more details: www.ludlowspringfestival.co.uk
see you there!
2018 oPenIng tIMes: Friday 11th May - Meet the Brewer preview night - 5pm to 9pm Saturday 12th May - 10am to 9pm Sunday 13th May - 10am to 5pm
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May 19th - 20th
Back for its 3rd year this festival is children heaven and it promises to be the biggest, most creative, fun filled weekend for kids of all ages.
With dozens of amazing activities to try from the massive water slide to zorbing, bubble football, two foam parties, zip line, a helterskelter and a go-kart track, it’s going to be difficult to decide which activity to have a go at first.
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Shropshire Kids festival
Serious skills will be on show throughout the weekend, as dance acts, singers and musicians share their talent on the festival’s main stage. And there are more creative activities with art and craft sessions focusing on collage and sculpture.
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Kids can partake in sports including tennis, rugby, football, street dance, gymnastics and yoga. Competitive types will love the inflatable obstacle course and the ‘wacky races’, which will include a laughter inducing water balloon race and the highly anticipated space hopper race.
If they still have the energy after all that, there’s also a circus skills bigtop, storytelling, kids cookery, gaming van, youth club and to top it all, a not to be missed foam party!
There will be a number of zones with activities for kids of all ages from babies through to early teens. The weekend is all about trying something new, getting hands on, discovering a new passion and learning, but in a totally fun way.”
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Even the youngest children have been catered for with baby sensory sessions, baby yoga, baby singing and toddlers tumble play area.
For more information and www.shropshirekidsfest.co.uk shrewsbury Quarry Park
tickets
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Shrewsbury Food Festival
april 23rd - 24th
Voted THE BEST Festival in the region Shrewsbury Food festival will welcome more than 26,000 people to Shrewsbury Quarry Park. The mouthwatering event has a star-studded line-up, more than 200 amazing producers and a packed programme of entertainment for all the family. As the biggest and now notably the best food festival in the region this is a family event not to be missed.
Now in its sixth year, Shrewsbury Food Festival is going from strength to strength with Michelin chefs bringing their culinary skills to the Wenlock Spring Chef Demonstration Stage. The FBC Mamby Bowdler Cookery School will run throughout the festival weekend and focuses on making dishes that are quick and easy, so everyone will leave with an increased recipe range, not to mention some extra knife skills.
Shropshire’s biggest festival is getting even bigger. Never one for standing still, this year
sees some exciting developments such as a new BBQ zone with a chance to try and learn new skills. There is a huge array of entertainment on the huge Buttermarket stage - providing the perfect opportunity to sit down, have a drink and soak up the festival vibes.
The huge children’s area will keep them occupied for hours. It is full of free activities, a creative area, a “Have a Go” music tent, kids cookery and much more allowing parents to have some uninterrupted shopping time!
All of the details – as well as pre-booked tickets – are available from the festival website www.shrewsburyfoodfestival.co.uk
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July 21st - 22nd
Fine food and flying machines!
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Cosford Food Festival
A tasty line-up of over 90 local producers will be heading to the Cosford Food Festival, taking place on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 July. Held in the unique setting at the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford, a bustling food market will showcase some of the region’s finest artisan produce and locally brewed beverages.
On top of popular favourites, there will be plenty of new producers joining the festival for the first time, making this year’s event the biggest and the best yet. Organisers have also lined up delicious street food for visitors to enjoy at the festival and will be serving up flavours from around the world to tempt foodies.
Visitors can learn from local chefs how to prepare the perfect dish during live cooking demonstrations both days. Plus, festival goers can sit back and enjoy live music including performances from the 1940s vintage vocal harmony trio The Bluebird Bells and some 50’s and 60’s Rock ‘n’ Roll from the Dirty Rockin Scoundrels.
With plenty of entertainment for the entire family taking place over the whole weekend, including cookery classes, pottery workshops, circus skills and a play bus, it is sure to be a great day out!
With plenty of entertainment for the entire family taking place over the whole weekend, including cookery classes, circus skills and an under 5’s play bus, it is sure to be a great day out! admission Prices: Adult £6.00 Child (5-15 years) £2.00 Family (2 adults, up to 4 children) £14.00 Children under 5 - FREE www.rafmuseum.org/cosford telephone 01902 376200 Follow the event on Facebook: @CosfordFoodFestival
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Visit Eastnor
/EastnorCastle @EastnorCastle
eastnorcastle.com
2018 Visitor Opening Open for visitors on selected days between Easter and September. A family event included in the entrance price every day we are open, see our website for details. CASTLE • ARBORETUM •MAZE PLAYGROUNDS • LAKE
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July 28th august 12th
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Church Stretton Arts Festival
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o Duo © John Ferro sims
Following their acclaimed performance at the 2016 Festival, we are delighted the London Mozart Players string sextet are returning to give this year’s opening concert. We will also be welcoming back to Church Stretton the virtuoso Aquarelle Guitar Quartet and versatile violinist Harriet Mackenzie who will be appearing with her Kosmos trio (violin, viola, accordion) to give a concert of world music.
for flute, viola and harp and acclaimed young Malaysian pianist Lee-Jae Phang will be giving a solo recital. We can look forward to a highenergy performance from the O Duo on their wide range of tuned and untuned percussion following a children’s workshop earlier in the day. Jake and Elwood will give us a great evening as they go Dancing with the Blues Brothers. And, to bring the 2018 Festival to a memorable close, we welcome The Complete and Utter History of Jazz - a multi-instrumentalist sextet who, between numbers, will entertain us with fascinating tittle tattle about the musicians who made Jazz magnificent.
Peter Moore © Kaupo Kikkas
Big names appearing at the Festival for the first time in 2018 will include trombonist Peter Moore (BBC Young Musician of the Year 2008), internationally renowned viola player Milena Simovic and clarinettist Robert Plane who will join the Gould Trio for a concert of chamber music. The award-winning London-based Pelleas Ensemble will entertain us with music
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Pelleas ©alessandro tear
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There will also be a Teatime Concert, a total of 9 free Coffee Concerts and Organ Recitals, and an afternoon talk by author Phil Rickman whose Merrily Watkins series is set in the Marches. The lives of contralto Kathleen Ferrier and authoress Charlotte Bronte will be explored in two plays, written and presented by Lucy Stevens and Alison Neil respectively.
Kosmos
Open throughout the Festival, our annual Art Exhibition gets bigger and better every year and provides an excellent showcase for local artists, craftspeople and photographers.
aquarelle Š Daniel Killoran
Brochures:
gould Piano trio Š Jake Morley
Church Stretton Visitor Information Centre. Tickets available online & from Gloria Carter, 49 Ludlow Road, Church Stretton SY6 7AD (01694) 724106, John R Thomas (florist) 3 Sandford Avenue. Ring and Ride Transport available free for all events; telephone (01694) 720025. Art Exhibition information from Catherine Macartney 01694 723072. www.strettonfestival.org.uk twitter - @strettonFest
exga Roy abbott
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2nd august
THE BEST IN ITS FIELD !
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Burwarton Show
Pigs might fly at Burwarton show, but this year it is flying motorbikes Burwarton Show on 2 August is a terrific day out for the family with an exciting host of attractions. Jamie Squibb Freestyle Motorcycle Stunt Team are back by popular demand and new to Burwarton this year is the Inter-Club Scurry Driving Challenge – if you’ve never seen Scurry Driving come and be amazed. New to the show circuit this year Burwarton is pleased to present the Hogg Show – rare breed pigs as you’ve never seen them before, and by way of a complete contrast Adabra Giant Tortoises is a unique collection of giant tortoises, child friendly and weighing up to a third of a tonne each, as well as sheep shearing, trade stands, a food hall, handicrafts, horticulture, conservation and more full-size horses, cattle, sheep, pigs, and goats than you’ve ever seen in one place.
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Last year visitors were amazed by the antics of the Squibb Freestyle Stunt Team with their motorcycle acrobatics high above the arena and this year we are promised even higher and more spectacular stunts to keep hearts in mouths. Equally exciting but less noisy and at a lower level, and after several attempts, the Show hosts Scurry Driving in the form of an Inter-Club Challenge. The drivers guide their horses and carriages at a fast and furious pace around the main ring course competing against the clock and each other – a spectacle not to be missed.
All the usual attractions are present with heavy emphasis on a traditional agricultural show, local crafts, conservation area with a donkey and petting farm with rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens and donkeys and locally produced food with talks and demonstrations from the Ludlow Food Centre showcasing cheeses and how they are made, coffee and its selection and preparation and an overview of the food centre with a chance to sample some of their products. Competition is fierce with classes for heavy horses, cattle, sheep, pigs, horses and driving plus the ever popular mounted Fancy Dress class as well as dressage and show jumping to amaze and delight.
The show starts at 8.00 a.m. with the first horse classes in the Main Ring and continues throughout the day with cattle and sheep classes in the livestock classes and horse classes (inhand and ridden) in the horse field.
For the younger visitors, the Village Green and Children’s Play areas welcome the return of the Panic Family (non-animal) Circus with jugglers, clowns, fire eaters and the traditional Punch and Judy Show plus a host of other entertainment.
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Also returning for another year, Pentabus Theatre who are really excited to be back. Their interactive tent is a great spot to sit and relax where you can sample some of their plays, play with the toy farm and see some mini live performances – a sort of pop-up rural theatre.
The Showground is at Cleobury North WV16 6RP on the B4364 between Bridgnorth and Ludlow and parking is free. Ticket prices remain unchanged from last year - admission is £17 adults, £16 concessions, Juniors (12-16 years) £5, accompanied children 11 years and under FREE. Tickets are available at pre-show discounted prices from outlets throughout the county, on-line at www.burwartonshow.co.uk or direct from the Show Office on 01746 787535. Follow us on twitter @burwarton-show.
look forward to seeing you on 2nd august.
Images © Mike ashton
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Church Stretton Arts Festival
Celebrating the arts in the heart of the Shropshire Hills
Chillington Hall is a hidden gem situated between Brewood and Codsall. The enchanting 18th century Georgian house, still family home of the Giffards, is set in parkland landscaped by Capability Brown. The House and grounds provide the perfect setting for special occasions, corporate events and much more. The House is open for Historic tours and group bookings can be made by arrangement at other times.
28th July - 12th August 2018 Programme includes
London Mozart Players Complete and Utter History of Jazz Phil Rickman Aquarelle Guitar Quartet Robert Plane & The Gould Trio Peter Moore - Trombone
Opening Times 2018 2 - 4 pm (last entry to the house 3.30pm)
1 - 5 April 6 - 7 May 27 - 28 May 4 - 6 June
and much more...
Art, Crafts & Photography Exhibition Coffee Concerts Organ Recitals
23 - 26 July 30 July - 2 Aug 6 - 9 Aug 13 - 16 Aug
office@chillingtonhall.co.uk
www.strettonfestival.org.uk
Meet the Shropshire Mammoth New Exhibition & Activities Explore the 30 acre meadow Training courses & workshops Award Winning CafĂŠ Open Daily 10am-5pm Family Friendly Events & Activities
Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre
shropshirehillsdiscovery
@SH_DiscoveryCen
Tel: 01588 676060 School Rd, Craven Arms, SY7 9RS
Sh to g ow thi s e Exh t a 10% ibit en ion dis try cou exp ires nt 1.1 .201
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the home of Grow Cook Learn Registered Charity Number: 1158795
www.shropshirehillsdiscoverycentre.co.uk
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We celebrate important birthdays for two composers with long-held Presteigne Festival connections – Michael Berkeley and David Matthews – and the outstanding musical polymath Martin Butler joins us as composer-inresidence.
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The programme for the 36th Presteigne Festival (23-28 august) has a strong Baltic flavour. Important works by a range of Estonian, Latvian and Lithuanian composers, among them . Vladas Jakubenas, Tõnu Kõrvits, Ester Mägi, Arvo Pärt, Raminta Šerkšnyte, Erkki-Sven Tüür and Pēteris Vasks, are included.
huw Watkins
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piano), Huw Watkins (Echo, a song-cycle for soprano and piano jointly commissioned with Carnegie Hall, New York) and, from 2017 Royal Philharmonic Society Composition Prize winner Manos Charalabopoulos, a work for solo cello. The Festival’s successful relationship with Nova Music Opera continues to flourish; the company perform Joseph Phibbs’ new chamber opera Juliana at the Festival (a cocommission with the Cheltenham Music Festival), inspired by August Strindberg’s unsettling stage drama Miss Julie.
Martin Butler
Our exploration of the world of contemporary British music continues with exciting commissions from a mix of established and emerging talent – Cydonie Banting (The Gate of Dawn, for solo piano), David Bednall (an unaccompanied choral setting of a Marian text), Martin Butler (Concertante Dances, for piano and chamber orchestra), Gareth Moorcraft (a work for oboe, clarinet, horn, bassoon and
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Performing artists include the Navarra Quartet, Ruby Hughes soprano, Kristine Balanas violin, pianists Huw Watkins, Joseph Tong and Martin navarra Quartet
2 3 – 28 AUGUST 2 3 – 28 AWST
2018 ‘… the sheer love of music displayed by all the featured performers elevates this annual event above all others.’ Musical Opinion Quarterly
Navarra Quartet ∙ Nova Music Opera ∙ Ruby Hughes Kristīne Balanas ∙ Huw Watkins ∙ Joseph Tong Choir of Royal Holloway ∙ Rupert Gough James Turnbull ∙ Martin Butler ∙ Joanna Gutowska Festival Ensemble ∙ Festival Orchestra and much more...
Kristine Balanas
Free brochure available 01544 267800 | www.presteignefestival.com
Butler, a specially-formed Festival Ensemble, oboists James Turnbull and Ben Marshall, cellist Joanna Gutowska, the Choir of Royal Holloway conducted by Rupert Gough and the everpopular Festival Orchestra under artistic director George Vass.
A wonderful collection of supporting events will include exhibitions, a Nordic film feature, talks from Stephen Johnson, Ian Marchant and Peter Lord, poetry and Well Thumbed a fabulous oneman show from Terry Victor. Brochures available at the end of april from: Presteigne Festival, Po Box 30, Presteigne, Powys lD8 2WF 01544 267800
www.presteignefestival.com
Ruby hughes
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26th - 27th august
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Shrewsbury Steam Rally
The County of Salop Steam Engine Society’s 2018 Rally takes place at Onslow Park, Shrewsbury on the August Bank Holiday, Sunday 26th August and Monday 27th August.
Shrewsbury Steam Rally will showcase over 1000 exciting exhibits and the highly-entertaining range of attractions will include the wonderful spectacle of working steam engines, and beautifully preserved classic vehicles from yesteryear, all to delight visitors to the popular annual family event.
In the main arena, spectators can also enjoy moving convoys of historic commercial vehicles, including buses and fire engines; vintage cycles; working horses; vintage tractors; pre-and post World War II cars; classic motorcycles; and perambulators... with all entrants invited to be in
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period costume. The Working Field will take a nostalgic look at the farming of 'days gone by' and demonstrate an exciting mix of impressive working machines and shire horses that capture the history and heritage of farming in the Victorian era. There's also Tractor Pulling to excite! Full Arena Programme on both days.
The Rally covers 45 acres of beautiful parkland, with 6 acres of Trade Stands. The Rally hosts a variety of preserved commercial vehicles, that includes lorries, buses, fire engines and a large display of military vehicles. The Olde Time Fair offers lots of fun, with steam-powered rides for all - accompanied by vintage fairground music. Finally there are some excellent miniature steam engines, and a Craft Marquee - which gets bigger each year!
The family-friendly event provides some enjoyable entertainment with a full Arena Programme on both days, including the highlypopular and majestic cavalcade of Showman’s engines, traction engines, steam rollers and steam cars. Spectators can enjoy the annual highly-popular interactive display of birds of prey. Full information from www.shrewsburysteamrally.co.uk and visitors can buy tickets online. Tickets: Adult: £13, Pensioner: £12, Child: £1. Under 5's -Free. Enquiries: info@shrewsburysteamrally.co.uk (01938) 570874. Postal address: COSSES, PO Box 4706, Shrewsbury. SY5 0WT.
Photographs © Philip Davies
Shropshire OktoberFest
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In a County renowned for its food we sometimes forget about the awesome drink the region has to offer. With Shrewsbury being at the heart of the ever-popular foodie and festival scene there is simple solution to this obvious problem a huge pub in the park!
150 real ales in one MASSIVE tent, Combined with Wye Valley’s 1985 lager bar, prosecco parlor, gin den, cocktails galore and even a rum shack and you have drink heaven.
So, you’d rather kick back and relax while you enjoy a pint of the finest? Well pull up a pew in the Nick Jones Wealth Management comedy club… There’s an awesome lineup of the funniest people on the circuit so we promise you’ll leave smiling. If music is more your thing then make your way to the huge Rees Astley Music Stage. From Ompah bands to the best of Shropshire Talent we are blessed with the best of local music. There will be the DM Recruitment games tent with its giant entertainment and there will be a
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lot of fun and frolics for the whole family on the Sunday when family entertainment is on the menu.
Great food is also on offer with the best street food from across the region so whether you come straight from work on Friday, party with friends on Saturday or bring the family on Sunday this is a weekend party for everyone!
So if you’d like to be a part of it then grab tickets now from www.shropshireoktoberfest.co.uk shrewsbury Quarry Park
Telford Intl Centre
Shrewsbury Quarry
24th & 25th Feb 2018
19th & 20th May 2018
Over 150 free activities with everything from 0-14 year olds.
shropshirekidsfest.co.uk
23rd - 24th June 2018 In the quarry park & around town
FESTIVAL
28 APRIL 2018 FIELDTOFORK.WORLD
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The perfect party space.
Quarry Park
Shrewsbury
shropshireoktoberfest.co.uk
www.shropshirefestivals.co.uk
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20th Anniversary ... 24th & 25th November
now in its 20th year !
Join us in the stunning setting of Ludlow’s very own Medieval Castle for this fantastic fun weekend with entertainment galore and a huge range of food, drink and shopping.
On Saturday, join knights, maidens, entertainers and stallholders from 10am onwards for the full range of entertainment, hands on activities and fantastic shopping. As the sun sets across the beautiful hills of South Shropshire, why not linger for the late night opening (until 9pm) as the castle comes alive for an evening of Medieval Revelry. On Sunday visitors can enjoy a day filled with Medieval festivities from 10am– 4pm.
On both days, visitors can explore over 100 stalls selling everything from seasonal wares to food and drink, crafts, historical goods and more. The Fayre offers the ideal chance to find the perfect original gift or indulge in a unique treat for yourself!
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Ludlow Medieval Christmas Fayre
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There’s a wide range of food and drink on offer to tickle your taste buds too, from mulled wine and cider, to roast chestnuts and pies or why not head over to our local Beer Tent for carol singing and traditional wassails to whet your appetite for our jam-packed entertainment programme. With everything from fighting knights and medieval music, jesters and juggling to our giant ten foot puppets, there’s entertainment all weekend!
Head across the moat to the Inner Bailey for storytelling, hands-on-history, demonstrations and activities as well as more food and drink! From St. Nicholas in his magical den to try-on armour, have-a-go activities and meeting birds of prey, there really is something for all ages to enjoy.
For the latest information and updates, visit www.ludlowmedievalchristmas.co.uk or find us on Facebook & Twitter
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Having recently celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2017, the Bridgnorth Cliff Railway transports passengers up and down the 111 ft red sandstone cliffs which separate High Town from Low Town and the picturesque River Severn. “Being first and foremost a working funicular, its importance to Bridgnorth townspeople and visitors alike is undiminished by age.” The cliff railway operates by two counterbalancing carriages travelling in opposite directions on parallel tracks. Originally, the cars were powered by a water-balance system with water for the ballast tanks pumped back to the top station using gas engines. After the second of these was taken out of service, the system was converted to one of electrically powered winding drums. These are of a type used in mines.
Bridgnorth Cliff Railway was founded by the famous Victorian hydraulic lift engineer Sir George Croydon Marks, who later became Lord Marks of Woolwich. George also engineered the cliff railway and became its first managing director until 1901. His brother Edward, another engineer, became its next managing director until 1924. The cliff railway is now owned by distant cousins who bought the original company in 2011.
Do visit England’s only remaining inland electric funicular railway! £1.60 return fare. Telephone: 01746-762052 (stations). www.bridgnorthcliffrailway.co.uk
The famous Winding House, situate next to the Top Station serves twenty types of tea. From here one can view the winding gear through a viewing window or sit out on the terrace from where one can take in the wonderful views across the River Severn. Directly above the Bottom Station, the Stoneway Guest House offers a unique B & B experience.
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Pictures © Bridgnorth Cliff Railway www.countysignpost.co.uk
Every journey ends with a memory.
Visit svr.co.uk or call 01562 757 900 KIDDERMINSTER · BEWDLEY · BRIDGNORTH
Severn Valley Railway Official Site
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AU AUGUS AUGU AUG B BA BAN H HO HOL HOLI HOLID HOLIDA AUGUST BANK HOLIDAY
Set in the village of Leintwardine, this country restaurant with rooms is the perfect place to enjoy a drink, dinner, or stay the night in an excellent location for exploration of Herefordshire, South Shropshire and the Welsh Marches.
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The Lion, High Street, Leintwardine, Shropshire, SY7 0JZ T: 01547 540203
www.thelionleintwardine.co.uk
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t he J UDge ’ s l oDgIng
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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.
One of the w orld’s most appealin g small mu seums’ Dr John Davies, historian.
‘Truly inspirational’ is how HRH Prince of Wales described The Judge’s Lodging on a visit to this stunningly restored Victorian courthouse. Historic Royal Palaces Curator & historian, Lucy Worsley exclaimed ‘WHAT a stunning place!’ after filming for the BBC in the building and the Hudson's Heritage Awards hailed it as ‘Britain’s Best Hidden Gem’. You really do need to see for yourself what all the fuss is over this exceptional courthouse in the tiny Welsh border town of Presteigne.
The Judge’s Lodging has long had a reputation for liking the quirkier side of history, so a visit to the museum will treat you to all sorts of fascinating insights into Victorian living, from jelly-making and napkin folding to toilet habits and household maintenance hints. This awardwinning historic judge’s accommodation and court offers a most unusual journey back in time. Wander through the judge’s private apartments 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
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There’s a host of special events and exhibitions to add to your entertainment. Every school holiday will come with exciting trails and activities to entertain the young, along with their own guidebook, full of facts about toilets, pants and things odd. Look out for special events and news throughout the year on the website, or follow on facebook.com/theJudgeslodging
Two exhibitions will make a special year in 2018: “Circumstantial Evidence” will run from May to mid-August. This selling exhibition of ink and gouache studies by artist Simon Dorrell, in celebration of the twenty-first anniversary of the building’s restoration, sees these images juxtaposed with information on the lives of the
servants and their masters. For the first time, the museum will be displaying images of some of the ‘hidden’ parts of the building and what the servants left behind, including some fascinating graffiti from Victorian servants. From late August to the end of the year “Ladies of Llanandras” will celebrate strong females from Presteigne’s past and present, in recognition of the centenary of votes for women – midwives, teachers, shop-owners, publicans, community leaders - see how the women of the town have made it what it is today. There will be new local history spaces to explore too, where you can find out more about the area, or just relax with a cup of coffee and even a game of chess.
The Judge’s Lodging has also teamed up with the owner of Stapleton Castle, whose ruins occupy a commanding position over the town, to offer guided walks throughout the year. Tours last about an hour, taking in the 12th century castle
site, ruins of the later house, the mill site and a stroll through the gardens. There is no general public access to the site and tours are only by prior arrangement, but bookings can easily be made by calling the owner on 01544 267327, preferably giving 24 hours notice. They will try to suit your requirements. Your personal tours are £5 per person, with a minimum charge of £25. All proceeds from the tours will be donated equally to The Judge’s Lodging and the National Garden Scheme.
If you want more information on the castle walks, 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
Photography by Dave Jones and alex Ramsay. Painting of lamp Room by simon Dorrell.
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I RonBRIDge g oRge M UseUMs
Blists hill Victorian town where life over 100 years ago is recreated
A World Heritage Site and the beating heart of the Industrial Revolution, Ironbridge is home to 10 amazing museums that make an unforgettable experience. Rocket yourself back to the age of steam as you experience the sights, sounds and smells of the Victorian era at Blists Hill Victorian Town. At Enginuity, you can generate electricity from flowing water and pull a 10-tonne locomotive by hand. Next door, discover how Coalbrookdale changed the world at the Museum of Iron. Explore the artistry and craft behind the tiles that decorated Victorian Britain at Jackfield Tile Museum and browse the beautiful collections at Coalport China Museum. Across the year, you can join special events, school holiday workshops and fun hands-on activities at the museums. Check the museums’ website and see what’s going on. Over the Easter school holidays, you can join the residents at Blists Hill as they celebrate with a self-led bunny trail and fun printing activities,
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while over at Enginuity workshops use craft materials and harness pneumatic energy to create fun bunnies that pop out of their burrows and Easter eggs that crack open.
On Saturday, 14th April, the largest mechanical puppet ever constructed in Britain, the Man Engine, is coming to Blists Hill. The colossal
steampunk Weekend returns to Blists hill Victorian town 23-24 June
feat of engineering crawls at 4m high and ‘transforms’ to stand 11.2m high. There will also be a spectacular evening event.
A new free exhibition at the Coalbrookdale Gallery runs from March to October about the Coalbrookdale School of Art where many of the artisans who worked in factories around the Ironbridge Gorge were once trained. The International Garden Photographer of the Year exhibition also returns to the Footprint Gallery at Jackfield from early May to mid-September. Other special events include the second steam punk weekend at Blists Hill in June and steam weekend in August, while Halloween will take centre stage during Ghostly Gaslight on 27th October. Then it’s fireworks night and the two festive weekends in December when you can experience the magic of a traditional Victorian Christmas.
Make the most of daytime visits to all 10 awardwinning museums with a great value Annual Passport Ticket; individual museum entry tickets are also available. Passports are not valid at some special events, activities vary day-to-day and some carry an extra charge.
the Man engine
For further details : tel: 01952 433 424 or visit www.ironbridge.org.uk
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Ludlow’s historic Grade I listed Buttercross was built in 1743–46 on the site of the High Cross at the heart of the town.
From its central location, the museum enjoys fabulous views along the listed beautiful buildings of Broad Street and the countryside beyond.
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And the medieval artefacts from Ludlow Castle & St Laurence’s Church, both situated in the town centre and near neighbours of the Buttercross …
To maps depicting the development of the walled town and Ludlow’s architecture throughout the ages including the Market Hall, also the story of Ludlow’s professions and trades; and concluding with exhibits from Ludlow at war and peace. admission:
The museum’s collections tell the town’s history and explain how Victorian geologists unravelled the meaning of Ludlow's rocks, making them internationally famous.
The Museum at the Buttercross tells Ludlow’s history from the warm shallow tropical sea that covered the area 400 million years ago and formed the town’s unique geology and fossils …
Through the prehistory of Ludlow and Bromfield, and the treasures including the Bitterley Hoard, sword pommel, ring and other hoards …
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£1 adults
50p under 16yrs Free under 5yrs
Facilities:
Lift & Disabled Access Toilet
opening times:
Fri, Sat, Sun & Bank Holidays 10-4pm
ludlow Museum at the Buttercross, ludlow, sy8 1aW Please contact Ludlow Town Council museum staff on: 01584 878 697 www.ludlow.gov.uk
A Victorian Revelation Hands-on and bursting with atmosphere! Open Mar – Oct Tues - Sun (& Bank Holidays) For winter opening see website Presteigne, Powys LD8 2AD | 01544 260650
www.judgeslodging.org.uk
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ROYAL A IR F ORC E MUSEUM COSFORD
The Royal Air Force Museum Cosford is home to over 75 historic aircraft and offers a fun, entertaining day out for the entire family. Aircraft on display include the world’s oldest Spitfire, the unique TSR2 and the mighty Vulcan bomber to name but a few.
Opening in April 2018 will be new displays exploring the first 100 years of the RAF, the role it plays today and its future contributions. Plus, the new aircraft collection at Cosford which includes a collection of Second World War aircraft; including the Wolverhampton built Boulton Paul Defiant, the Bf109, Tiger Moth, Gladiator and Ju88, will enable to RAF’s story to be more comprehensively represented to audiences in the Midlands. Discover a world class collection of aircraft displayed inside three wartime hangars and
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within the award winning National Cold War Exhibition. This landmark building truly has the ‘wow’ factor with its eye-catching architecture and design. Visitors will discover Cold War stories in immersive Hotspots; explore thrilling displays of aircraft, iconic cars, models, tanks and even life-sized Russian dolls.
Set amongst the museum’s collection of warplanes, three iconic First World War aircraft; the Sopwith Pup, Sopwith 1 ½ Strutter and the Bristol M.1c form the centre piece of the ‘First World War in the Air’ Exhibition. Displayed alongside the aircraft are the personal items of Second Lieutenant Kevin Robert Furniss of the Royal Flying Corps (RFC), who lived only a few miles from Cosford in Wolverhampton.
Learn if you have what it takes to be a pilot in Fun ‘n’ Flight which is packed with hands on excitement. Whether you’re learning how to fly a Spitfire, investigating air flow with ‘The Blower’ or guiding a Hercules to a drop zone you will be learning and having fun.
Let your imagination take flight on board the Museum’s 4D Experience which combines cutting-edge 3D computer animation with the added fourth dimension of special environmental effects. Experience the thrill of flying in formation with the world famous aerobatic display team the Red Arrows in the new 4D ride.
After wondering in the hangars, visitors can relax and enjoy a coffee in the licensed Refuel Restaurant which has a great selection of hot and cold food available and views overlooking the airfield. Or, if it’s light refreshments you are after, head to the classic Citroen H Van in the National Cold War Exhibition and enjoy a snack against a backdrop of aircraft.
RAF Museum Cosford is one day out that everyone will enjoy, whatever the weather and with a wide range of exciting events taking place throughout the year, there is something to suit all ages.
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• Airfix Make and Take - 17-23 February • 100 Years of the RAF - 1-2 April • Eagles at Easter Display - 5 and 12 April • Open Cockpits Evening - 18-19 May / 14-15 September • Cosford Food Festival - 21-22 July • Summer of Spies - 1-31 August • Spitfire 10K - 2 September • Outdoor Cinema - 21-22 September • Conservation Centre Open Week - 12-18 November
To find out more visit the museum’s website www.rafmuseum.org/cosford. Keep up to date with the latest news and event information by following them on social media.
Fun n Flight the Blower © RaF Museum Cosford
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S H R E W S B U RRY Y CASTLE AND S H R O P S H I R E R E G I M E N TA L M U S E U M
The Regimental Museum was established in Shrewsbury’s medieval Castle in 1985 combining regimental collections from various locations in the county. It now forms one of The Rifles heritage museums and houses the collections of armour, trophies, uniforms, medals, weapons and much more associated with Shropshire Regiments such as King’s Shropshire Light Infantry, The Shropshire Yeomanry and others.
There are also displays on the county Lord Lieutenancy, the Modern British Army and the history of the castle which dates back to the early Norman era. With over 30,000 artefacts and related archival material, it covers the service of the county regiments over 250 years. With much of its material being donated by local families, it perpetuates the service of the men of Shropshire since 1755. It has comprehensive collections of uniforms, decorations and medals, silverware, china and many other colourful and interesting items of local and even national importance such as the VC of Harold Whitfield and the baton of Grand Admiral Doenitz, the last leader of the Third Reich.
The Castle and Regimental Museum are open from mid-February to late December but closed on Thursdays and off-peak Sundays. See website for exact times or call. Admission charge to Regimental Museum. Free access to Castle grounds. Note: Children aged four and under and regimental veterans are admitted free of charge. Castle Street, Shrewsbury SY1 2AT Telephone: 01743-358516 www.shropshireregimentalmuseum.co.uk
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S HREWSBU RY M US EU M & A RT G A L L E RY A T T H E M U S I C H A L L
2018 promises to be an exciting year at Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery with two blockbuster special exhibitions adding something special to complement our amazing collections and galleries.
Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery tells the stories that make Shropshire unique. Come and explore millions of years of history through over one thousand remarkable objects in the extraordinary set of building that house Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery.
This fascinating museum offers something for the whole family and holds events and activities throughout the year that are ideal for children and adults alike! Children will enjoy following the Maximo Mouse trail through the museum, writing with a quill pen in the scriptorium and trying on the interactive hats! Whether you’re having a catch-up with friends, taking a break
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Children enjoying shrewsbury Museum & art gallery
hagrid and Family
Roman stones
from shopping or touring our galleries you will find that stop. cafe bar offers the perfect setting for a restful break in the heart of Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery. go to www.shrewsburymuseum.org.uk for details of our 2018 exhibition programme. the square, shrewsbury, sy1 1lh tel: 01743 258885 email: shrewsburymuseum@shropshire.gov.uk Follow us on Facebook, twitter and Instagram for the latest news and updates.
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Shrewsbury Market Hall is well worth a visit for a vibrant blend of boutique stalls, award-winning cafes and bars, art and craft studios, fresh produce and more. Spot Shrewsbury’s commanding clock tower on the skyline and here you’ll find the award-winning Market Hall, hunkered at its base.
The Market Hall has earned a reputation as a must-visit destination for some of the most creative lunch spots in town. And one Saturday every month – usually the first Saturday – the market also opens as a popular evening venue. Cafes, restaurants, bars and a selection of retail stalls open until 10pm.
Diners can enjoy Beijing dumplings in a Chinese tea house, champagne and oysters at a continentalstyle seafood bar, Spanish tapas or sizzling Thai and Indian street food.
The Birds’s Nest Café, recently awarded the accolade of Shropshire’s Best Coffee Shop, is renowned for its show-stopping cakes and artisan-inspired street dishes.
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house of yum thai street food
Bird’s nest Cafe
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New to the market’s food and drink scene is Gindifferent Bar, specialising in more than 50 craft gins from small distilleries in the UK and abroad. Gins can be savoured alongside artisan cheese and charcuterie platters, the ingredients for which are sourced from market delicatessen Cook And Carve.
The market has a dizzying array of fresh produce, reinforcing its foodie credentials. There are no fewer than four traditional butchers, including rare breed and poultry and game specialists. There are Darren tomkins, of gindifferent Bar Bar four fruit and veg sellers including Hopesay Glebe Farm which sells its own organic produce on Fridays and Saturdays. Barkworths Seafoods has been supplying fresh fish to the people of Shrewsbury for over 100 years, sourcing from small family-owned inshore day boats in Cornwall, Wales and Scarborough. Other notable food and drink attractions are Snapdragon Wholefoods, barbecue rub and spice blend specialist Black Box and independent wine merchant Iron & Rose which sells wines from small production vineyards that use traditional and natural methods of production.
Make time to explore the market’s home and gift boutiques. Discover vintage finds, pre-loved books and unique handcrafts. Treat yourself to a one-off work of art.
You can even hire or buy a bicycle to explore more of Shrewsbury and the surrounding area. Supplier Urban Bikes provides sightseeing cycle route maps that weave through the town or fan out into the countryside.
Romy Design
Ian Cornall, of Barkworths seafoods and saint Pierre seafood Bar
shrewsbury Market hall, in Claremont street, opens tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and saturdays with a selection of stalls open on thursdays. www.markethallshrewsbury.co.uk
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The Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre is the perfect place to start your exploration of the Shropshire Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Visit the new and improved exhibition where you can meet the Condover Mammoth and dip into the stories of some of the people, places and products within this special landscape.
The refurbished rotunda area offers outstanding footage with the new panoramic film in high definition, soaring over the hills, towns and rivers of the surrounding landscape on a bigger screen than ever before. Carrying on his dad, Pete’s legacy, professional actor, Billy Postlethwaite narrates the journey where, from the height of Clee Hill to the valley of Clun, you’ll see the local landscape like you’ve never seen it before.
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SHROPSHIRE HILLS D I S COVERY C ENT RE
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Joining the well known Shropshire Mammoth, along with the new film, are new interactives and games for all the family to enjoy. From start to finish, use all of your senses to explore the Ice Age through to the present day here in the Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, run by local charity, Grow Cook Learn. Find out about the mammoth’s diet and explore the sights and smells of an Iron Age hut; enjoy the medieval banquets and learn all about the food, history and landscape of the Shropshire Hills.
Discover a unique range of gifts, cards, books, home ware, local artisan crafts and local food products in our shop, much of it made in Shropshire and reflecting the beauty of the natural landscape – you are guaranteed to take home a little bit of Shropshire. We also stock a wide range of locally made cards, postcards and calendars. Every 4-6 weeks our gallery features amazing works of art by local artists and craft people inspired by the Shropshire Hills.
There are regular events and hands-on workshops at various weekends and throughout the schools holidays to keep children (and adults) amused and entertained.
The award winning café offers home-cooked food made from scratch, on site, using produce sourced as locally as possible. Whether it’s hot meals, freshly prepared sandwiches, afternoon tea with our selection of home-made cakes or just a cold ice cream that you’re after, we have something for everyone to enjoy. On Sunday’s we dress the tables with linen tablecloths and flowers for our fantastic roast dinners. If it’s a breath of fresh air you are looking for then a stroll in our 30 acres of riverside meadows, with all ability access paths, will round off
your trip nicely. Dogs are allowed in the meadows and wild play areas can be found throughout the paths so there’s something for the whole family!
FREE ENTRY, charges apply to Shropshire Hills Through Time exhibition. See our website for more details: www.shropshirehillsdiscoverycentre.co.uk
opening hours
Open 7 days a week 10am – 5pm The last entry to the exhibition is 4.30pm. Telephone 01588 676060 Craven Arms SY7 9RS
2018 events
16 June
Family Fun Day
October
Autumn Apple Day
October
Bonfire & Fireworks
November
Christmas Craft Fair
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A CTO N S COTT NEAR
CHURCH S TRETTON
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H I S T O R I C W O R K I N G FA R M ,
Located in the peaceful setting of the Shropshire Hills AONB, Acton Scott Historic Working Farm is one of the UK’s leading working farm museums and attractions.
The first attraction of its kind in the UK, Acton Scott Historic Working Farm recreates traditional 19th-century farm life. This fascinating farm features costumed staff and demonstrations from wheelwrights, farriers and blacksmiths, and the chance to see shire horses working the fields.
Children will relish the chance to handle chicks and bottle feed lambs. There’s also a great cafe in the former schoolhouse and farm produce on sale in the shop. Over the 2018 season, there will
be a series of special events including Easter Crafts, Jurassic Farm and a Family History Weekend. Step back in time and enjoy a relaxing family day out exploring 23 acres of glorious countryside.
Acton Scott Historic Working Farm is open from 30 March until 4 November 2018.
See www.shropshire.gov.uk/acton-scott/ for more information about the Farm and fantastic events.
Follow on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news. To find out more about our opening times and special events please call 01694 781306.
simon at work
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W hItChURCh h eRItage C entRe 2018 opening hours Tuesday 11.00 - 16.00 Thursday 11.00 - 16.00 Friday 11.00 - 16.00 Groups by arrangement
FRee entRy Whitchurch is renowned for being the only town in Shropshire to have been continually inhabited on the same site since being built in Roman Times. The Heritage Centre is home to Whitchurch Museum and Archives and contains displays and exhibits that reflect the town’s historic roots.
The integral Gallery contains a selection of original works, in both oil and watercolour, by Randolph Caldecott and other artists connected with Whitchurch. Permanent displays include:
● Local archaeological finds - Bronze age axehead, Anglo Saxon silver tags, Roman pottery & other treasure ● Sir Edward German - Whitchurch-born composer and musician ● Randolph Caldecott - Artist and illustrator who worked in Whitchurch ● History of Joyce’s Clocks - a Whitchurchbased company famous for its tower clocks ● Communication during World War One based around operating cart ● Themed interactive displays geared towards younger children
Museum is wheelchair accessible Disabled parking adjacent to Heritage Centre Gift shop selling souvenirs and local history publications
Contact Details 12 St Mary’s Street Whitchurch, Shropshire, SY13 1QY Tel 01948 664577
Collection & Research enquiries info@whitchurch-heritage.co.uk
Websites www.whitchurch-heritage.co.uk www.thegreatwar.whitchurch-shropshire.co.uk www.allourstories.whitchurch-shropshire.co.uk
social Media www.facebook.com/whitchurch-heritagecentre twitter.com/WHSHC
There are numerous temporary displays which tell stories connected to Whitchurch and the local area. These currently include: • Transportation • Commemorative Ceramics • Napoleonic Wars • Prees Heath WW1 Camp • Whitchurch Railway Station • Cheshire Cheese in Shropshire
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SEVERN VALLEY RAILWAY
hear the whistle, feel the rumble of the steam engine under your feet and prepare to venture back in time for a journey of discovery. Climb into your cosy carriage and let our heritage steam locomotives take you on an exciting trip out along our 16-mile line, passing through the stunning scenery of the Severn Valley, from Kidderminster to Bridgnorth.
Hop on and off to explore any of our six, beautifully-restored stations or head to our Engine House Visitor Centre at Highley – packed with a wealth of interactive exhibits. Try your hand at engine driving on the footplate of a real steam locomotive, sort the mail in our
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travelling post office, see our King George VI Royal Carriage and meet the engine that collided with a camel! Enjoy a bite to eat at our on-site restaurant and let the kids burn-off energy on the outdoor adventure playground.
Our brand new refreshment room at Bridgnorth is due to open in summer too!
For a day out with a difference, head to any of our fantastic range of events. Fans of diesel locomotives will be in their element at the Spring Diesel Festival, featuring a star line-up of visiting and resident engines, from May 17th -19th.
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We’ll be embracing the wartime spirit with our hugely-popular Step Back to the 1940s Weekends, on June 30th-July 1st and July 7th – 8th.
Road-going transport is the star of the show at both Classic Vehicle Day on July 29th and On the Buses on September 2nd before the steam locomotives steal back the limelight at our Autumn Steam Gala, from September 20th 23rd. Daring visitors can brave our Ghost Trains, running in late October, before our ever-popular Santa Steam Specials arrive with bells on during December.
Steam Trains run daily between May and October, and at weekends and in school holidays from February to December.
For more information about the SVR, its events and bookings, visit www.svr.co.uk, call 01562 757900 or see the Severn Valley Railway Official Site or Families pages on Facebook.
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L UDLOW F OOD C ENTRE
Enjoy a great day out the at the Ludlow Food Centre. With a range of facilities for the whole family, including the gift shop, plant centre and bike shop as well as the award winning Ludlow Food Centre itself.
Here is where you can watch half of the farm shop’s produce being created through windows into the production kitchens. See how cheese, butter, yoghurt and ice-cream is made using milk from the Estate’s very own cows, speak to the talented and knowledgeable butchers who will help you select the perfect farm reared meat and don’t forget to taste the extensive range of delicious jams and pickles which you can watch being made. They go perfectly with the scrumptious selection of breads made fresh daily in the onsite scratch bakery. If that’s not enough, there is also an extensive deli and range
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of ready meals made in the onsite production kitchen and an array of coffees roasted and ground almost daily in the coffee roasting room. You can take pleasure in the delicious food available for you to purchase safe in the knowledge that 80% of it is sourced from Shropshire and the surrounding counties.
Stock up for your very own picnic; the children’s play area and picnic area are sure to be winners. Or if you’d prefer, enjoy lunch at the inviting Ludlow Kitchen which serves fresh seasonal meals and light bites using produce from Ludlow Food Centre and other local suppliers.
You can also enjoy lunch or dinner at the award winning Clive Restaurant which serves traditional food from a diverse and interesting menu that has a little something for everyone. www.countysignpost.co.uk
To really make the most of your visit, why not stay overnight in one of the Clive’s bedrooms and explore the rest of what Ludlow and South Shropshire has to offer the very next day. Bromfield - ludlow - shropshire - sy8 2JR www.ludlowfoodcentre.co.uk
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The British Ironwork Centre is a family company passionate about the preservation and creation of imaginative metal sculpture & art in all its forms.
Among the stunning and varied collection of metalwork you will find beautifully decorative items large and small for the home and garden.
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B R IT I SH I RON WO RK CENTRE
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Some of the items are faithful reproductions of beautiful ironwork, no longer seen today, whilst many are new improved items for the home, as glamourous and individual as their originals, but with contemporary twists.
As well as this the Centre is home to a splendid collection of magnificent animal sculptures which feature within their iron safari. The indoor showrooms offer an abundance of irresistible home essentials, ornaments and decorations. Within the shop you can also explore the painstakingly sourced range of gifts, from locally crafted jewellery, to candles, artwork and truly unqiue designs made by artisans from across the country and the world. telephone 0800 6888386 www.BritishIronWorkCentre.co.uk
2018 events
13th May Plant Hunters’ Fair - Donations to Hope House Children’s Hospice 1st July Colour Run
15th July Transport Rally - Donations to Hope House Children’s Hospice
29th July Plant Hunters’ Fair - Donations to Hope House Children’s Hospice
15th september Wrexham Symphony Orchestra (Proms in the Park)
30th september Tug Of War - Donations to Hope House Children’s Hospice
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W E L S H P O O L & L L A N FA I R LIGHT R AILWAY
steam railways – a great day (or evening!) out
© Mike heath
return journey. Or explore the neighbouring town and park and take a later train back.
Heritage railways are no longer just for train spotters. They’re now attractive days out for the whole family – and at attractive prices.
At the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway, just 25 minutes from Shrewsbury, of course there are the gleaming locomotives hissing with steam. But there are also comfortable carriages, with covered seating. Or if the weather’s fine, stand on the open balconies and watch the rolling hills, rushing rivers, green farmland and grazing sheep and cattle. Wildlife abounds too: spot the deer in Powys Estates, watch for heron at the Banwy Bridge and red kites or buzzards almost anywhere.
The railway offers a sensible 45-minute ride each way, just right for children. At the Llanfair Caereinion terminus, there’s a 40 minute to one hour turnaround for you to have lunch or tea with cakes in the friendly tearoom, turn the children loose in the play and picnic area, or set off to explore town and countryside before your
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© Mike heath
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Where do the evenings come in? The railway operates several evening fish and chips specials each season – they leave Llanfair Caereinion at 6:15 pm and travel down to Welshpool where a choice of meals is served to eat on the return journey. There’s nothing like eating on a train as the scenery goes by. But these evenings often sell out, so advance booking (and selection of meals) is essential, on www.wllr.org.uk
And the price is right – the family ticket (travel only) covers returns for four at just £32 – book discounted tickets on-line at www.wllr.org.uk, and it’s just £30 - great value to go with the great scenery.
Once you’ve sampled the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway, you’ll also want to try the other members of the Great Little Trains of Wales – they’re a little further from Shropshire but they’re all different and well worth the trip. Full information on all of them (and how to get there by rail if you prefer), is on www.bigtrainlittletrain.com
special events in 2018 31 March 2 April 26 May, 22 July, 8 & 25 August 17 June
23 & 24 June 31 August, 1 & 2 September 15 & 16 September
Easter Bunny Watch for Easter Eggs along the line. Take a selfie with the Easter Bunny! Fish and Chips Trains Advance booking strongly advised
Father's Day Any father accompanied by his child travels at child price Welshpool Transport Festival New this year. Extra trains and much more Annual Steam Gala Our biggest event of the year Teddy Bear Weekend
telephone 01938 810441 llanfair station sy21 0sF Welshpool station sy21 7lt www.facebook.com/WelshpoolsteamRailway © steve sedgewick
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Hawkstone Park may have been the original “theme park” as it was laid out amongst the natural features of the North Shropshire landscape in the 18th Century by eminent members of the Hill family for the enjoyment of visitors to their family estate but eventually due to a lack of funds it fell into disrepair. In the 1980’s its historic importance was recognised and it was lovingly restored and opened to the public once again some ten years later.
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Days out at hawkstone Park
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haWKstone PaRK FollIes
These days Hawkstone Park is one of Shropshire's premier outdoor attractions and it offers an exciting day out for families which is a little bit different. The beautiful woodland Follies Adventure Park has hidden pathways, caves, secret tunnels, and a grotto, and from the top of the Monument it is said you can see twelve counties!
The walk which is about 3km can be quite strenuous but there are shorter routes for you to enjoy. Due to the terrain not all areas are accessible for those with mobility issues but if would still like to enjoy the Park and see the
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views, then a Warden Safari is available for only a small extra cost. A season pass is available for local visitors which has an array of benefits such as free coffee and cake in the Café on certain dates. For more information on these or any of the services we offer within the Park, please call us direct on 01948 841777.
Lots of exiting events are planned for 2018, including an Zombie Escape Race on 3rd March, an Easter Egg Hunt, an outdoor theatre production of Alice in Wonderland, Colour Run, Dog Show and the fabulous three day Follies Fest! Please see our website for details of these and more. Treasure hunts are run on a regular basis throughout the season to entertain the children. In addition we offer children’s birthday parties, guided walks and an Off Road Driving organised by Ash 4x4 Experience (www.ash4x4.com). For schools and other groups such as Brownies, Scouts, walking groups etc. we offer various packages at discounted admission rates.
New for 2018 is the children’s interactive Adventure Trail which is available within the admission price. www.countysignpost.co.uk
We invite you to come and enjoy a day’s exploration followed by a hot meal or afternoon tea, locally sourced, in our newly refurbished Caspian’s Café in the Visitor Centre which has plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.
If you are planning a full day out and live further way, the Hawkstone Park Hotel offers every comfort and all the facilities you would expect.
Of course Hawkstone Park also offers you the opportunity to play two of the finest Golf Courses in the West Midlands, and in addition we have the Short Course where you can play golf in an hour if you are a little short of time or want to bring the family. The driving range is open to visitors too.
Please contact us or check our website for further information on exciting Days Out at Hawkstone Park. For prices and opening dates and times please see the website www.hawkstoneparkfollies.co.uk 01948 841777
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Easter Egg Hunt - Follies Park
27th April
WHAM Tribute & Dinner - Hawkstone Park Hotel £34.95 per person
16th June
Alice in Wonderland Theatre Production - Follies Park
29th June - 1st July
Follies Fest - Michael Jackson tribute, Family Day & A Night at the Musicals
2nd September
Colour Run in partnership with Hope House Children’s Hospice
7th October
Follies Fun Dog Show
26th October
West End Horror Show & Dinner - Hawkstone Park Hotel £34.95 per person
19th - 31st October
30th November - 23rd December
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Follies Fright Nights
Santa Safari
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Mother’s Day Lunch - Terrace Restaurant 3 Course Meal - £19.00 per person
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11th March
Main events in 2018
Prices :
Adult £8.25 Concession £7.50 Child (5-15 years of age) £5.75 Family 4 (x2 adults x2 kids) £26.00 Family 5 (x2 adults x3 kids) £29.50 Family 6 (2 adults x4 kids) £33.00 Love the Follies - buy a season ticket, which gives unlimited entrance, tea room loyalty card and fast pass access. Family 4 Season £71.00 Adult Season £30.00 Child Season £14.50
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opening times :
(Full walk is approximately 3 hrs/6km)
the park is open from 10.00 a.m. until 5.00 p.m. seven days a week from 19th February to 2nd november 2018.. Further information is available by calling 01948 841777 or visiting : www.hawkstoneparkfollies.co.uk
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FOLLIES FEST THE ULTIMATE MICHAEL JACKSON TRIBUTE Tickets:
FRIDAY 29TH JUNE 2018 Advance Purchase for 4: £83.00* Adult: £25.00 per person Child: £20.00 per person On the gate admission prices: £30.00 per adult & £25.00 per child
FOLLIES FEST FAMILY DAY Tickets:
SATURDAY 30TH JUNE 2018 Advance Purchase for 4: £99.00* Adult: £29.00 per person Child: £24.00 per person On the gate admission prices: £35.00 per adult & £30.00 per child
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A NIGHT AT THE MUSICALS Tickets:
SUNDAY 1ST JULY 2018 Advance Purchase for 4: £83.00* Adult: £25.00 per person Child: £20.00 per person On the gate admission prices: £30.00 per adult & £25.00 per child
For more information or to purchase tickets please visit: www.hawkstoneparkfollies.co.uk/tickets *Advance Purchase for 4 tickets can be for any 4 people and are only available to purchase until Thursday 31st May 2018
Royal Air Force Museum Cosford, Shifnal, Shropshire TF11 8UP
Days Out at Hawkstone Park
www.hawkstoneparkfollies.co.uk