• Follow a Telford tourist • The best places to stay in Telford
the
Telford Summer 2011
£4.20
tourist
www.telford-tourist.co.uk
Free entry For one family into Ironbridge museums
Ironbridge
Experience Blists Hill Museum
Win!
A weekend in Telford Top 5!
Upcoming events this summer!
May 5, 2011
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Welcome to the Summer edition of The Telford Tourist
The Telford Tourist Editorial Editorial • 01952 463175 editorial@telfordtourist. co.uk
Editor • Sophie Morgan
A
t last summer has arrived, and it’s not come soon enough after one of the coldest winter for years. With the warm
weather and glorious sun, Telford is the perfect place to enjoy them.
07799262175 s.morgan@telfordtourist. co.uk
The Telford Tourist - Summer 2011
With numerous attractions, for both the family and couples, you will never be bored. Kids will be occupied for hours at places such as Hoo
Advertising Regional sales manager • Gareth Bailey 01952 208675
Farm, whereas if it’s history you’re looking for a trip to Ironbridge is essential. As a World Heritage Site it is definitely worth a look. Beyond the many attractions of Telford
g.bailey@telfordtourist.co.uk
there is rolling countryside. Why not
Phone sales executive •
take a stroll up the Wrekin, or visit
Tracey Round
the Styper-stones in south
07799262175
Shropshire? Whatever your
t.round@telfordtourist.co.uk
preference, Telford has something for everyone – from babies to pensioners. Please feel free to tell me your views of
Circulation Customer services manager •
Telford, or to suggest other places which are essential to visit. Feel free to email me at s.morgan@telfordtourist.co.uk
Richard Joyce 01952 574386
Make the most of summer and enjoy it,
r.joyce@telfordtourist.co.uk
Editorial design • James Loe
j.loe@telfordtourist.co.uk
Team Telford Telford Tourist contributers with their suggestions
Sophie Morgan, Editor
The5uh5rhrngmt Shifnal Steeplechase Halfghky Marathon yt5 gmtjm
is an excellent way to see the sights of Shropshire on July 3. Set in the breaktaking countryside it is also fantastic for spectators to give support. Race organiser, Gareth Morgan, said: “The Steeplechase is a fantastic race through the countryside. Furthermore, the money raised goes to the Hope House charity.” For information contact Gareth on (01952) 460560 or email g.morgan@shropshire.sch.org.uk.
Runners in the Shifnal Steeplechase
The Telford Tourist - Summer 2011
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Contents Summer Edition 2011
On the Cover Feature - Ironbridge - Experience the Blists Hill Museum
page 4
Top 5! Upcoming events this summer! page 7
Profile - Follow a Telford tourist
page 11
Best camping locations
page 12
The Styperstones in South Shropshire
Photo: geograph.org.uk
Win! A weekend in Telford page 6
Opinion - Telford Shopping Centre
page 10
The best places to stay in Telford page 12
Readers photos and letters page 15
Visit us online: www.telford-tourist.co.uk
One of Telford’s landmarks
Photo: www.flickr.com/photos/mrdimpy
Travelling a little further... - the Bullring and Wolverhampton Grand Theatre page 14
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The Telford Tourist - Summer 2011
Experience The Blists Hill Victorian Museum Sophie Morgan explores the museum that will take you back in time to over 100 years ago. With a car park full of vehicles everything seems normal for a modern busy tourist attraction. But inside, the town has been preserved for over 100 years – with staff dressed in Victorian clothes, traditional printed newspapers and shops selling home-made products using farthings. The Blists Hill Victorian Museum is part of the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site, offering visitors a completely authentic day out. Everything within the museum is based on Victorian towns, including Shire horses pulling carts and vegetable plots which allowed villagers to be self sufficient. Entering the Visitor Centre is the only time modern is combined with traditional. The recent £12 million development allows visitors to be part of an audio-visual experience, where videos are projected onto huge walls showing Victorian methods, such as iron making. After exiting the Visitor Centre, visitors are transported back in time as they become part of the Victorian town. The first stop is
Lloyd’s Bank to exchange sterling into farthings and halfpennys.
one around to help answer questions.
Alan Crowson, of Lloyds Bank at Blists Hill, said: “We are trying to achieve an authentic experience by changing modern money into pretend Victorian prices. We feel visitors are more likely to feel part of a Victorian town if they get to look at and feel the money.”
Staff are allocated different positions within the community, such as candle makers or bakers, answering visitors questions on what their life would have been like.
The Victorian money can be used in the shops within the town, including the pub, sweet shop and pharmacy. It can also be used on the fairground attractions which are fitting with the Victorian era. Excess money can be exchanged back to sterling at the end of the day, or kept as a souvenir. The museum are extremely effective in providing an authentic feel – with horses, pigs and chickens living on site, blacksmiths offering demonstrations and shops and houses showing what the inside would have looked and smelt like. Manager of the Post Office, Dave Gough, said it is important that staff wear costumes as it is a living museum and allows visitors to interact with them. With around 60 staff on site dressed in Victorian attire, there will always be some-
Mr Gough added: “Visitors can see our interpretation of a Victorian town and learn about different job roles after talking to the staff.” Being able to interact with staff is brilliant for children as they become part of the Victorian town. Perhaps one of the most individual features of Blists Hill in comparison to similar style museums is the school house. Twice a day children are able to take part in a Victorian lesson, using slate and chalk instead of pen and paper. The lesson itself is very authentic, with strict discipline – but don’t panic the cane is not used! The Jones family, with children aged eight and 10, said: “A lesson in the school really allowed the kids to understand what it would have been like for them hundreds of years ago. The whole experience is super – both for the kids but also for older visitors like us!” The Blists Hill Victorian Museum simply is brilliant – it allows
The bakery uses Victorian methods
The Telford Tourist - Summer 2011
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Blists Hill Museum allows visitors to discover the Victorian era visitors to feel they really have stepped into a time machine, yet combines this with the modern Visitors Centre to allow them to learn about the conditions of the Victorian times. Although it is the most expensive of the Ironbridge Gorge museums, it is definitely the best at allowing visitors to interact and experience life over a hundred years ago.
Be involved in the 25th Ironbridge Gorge Anniversary The Ironbridge Gorge is celebrating its silver anniversary this summer.
to discover the past of the World Heritage Site.
To mark this occasion, an exhibition at Jackfield Tile Museum has been erected.
The Ironbridge Gorge was one of just seven World Heritage Sites in the UK when it was set up in 1986.
The display is from July 1 to September 30, allowing visitors
To find out how to become involved call (01952) 433424.
Tickets cost £14.95 for one adult day ticket, whereas for £22.50 you can buy a passport ticket, allowing unlimited entry to all Ironbridge Gorge museums for a year, which seems a more sensible option. A family passport ticket costs £61.50 for two adults and three children. The Jones family added: “We bought a family passport ticket so we can visit the other museums, such as the Jackfield Tile Museum or the Coalport China Museum. It made more sense to buy a passport ticket than a one day entry for Blists Hill and allows us to find out more about how industry developed.” For more information on tickets or museums call (01952) 433424 or visit www.ironbridge.org.uk.
The Doctor’s surgery as it would have been over 100 years ago
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! n i
W
The Telford Tourist - Summer 2011
A weekend in a luxurious Telford hotel
Haughton Hall hotel Set in glorious Shropshire countryside, Haughton Hall is the perfect romantic getaway. Just minutes from the M54, it is easily accessible for the top Telford attractions. Built in the 18th century, the listed building comprises of a nine hole golf course and a private lake for fishing - allowing a weekend full or relaxation! Furthermore, the leisure club includes a spa, jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, a well equipped gym and a 15 metre swimming pool. Demi Melvin, of Haughton Hall, said: “The facilities on offer to guests are excellent. We always get good feedback.” The leisure club, which has recently been updated, will allow you to relax in luxury. Furthermore, if it is a more relaxed weekend you are looking for, why not take a walk in their 35-acre surroundings? All hotel rooms come with LCD flat-screen televisions, wireless
The luxurious Haughton Hall internet, telephones and complimentary refreshments.
cated close to Telford.
As for nearby visitor attractions,
“ The facilities on
It also has access to local road links and motorways, including the M54 and M6. There is a huge variety of things for tourists in Shropshire aswell as Telford.
offer to guests are excellent. ”
Demi added: “Shropshire has lots for people to do, such as the Ironbridge. The hotel is within easy access of it.”
Haughton Hall is conveniently lo-
Both yourself and your guest will receive breakfast before exploring the sites of Telford. The competition winner will also have the opportunity to dine at Haughton Hall on the Friday and Picture: www.haughtonhall.com
The hotel’s swimming and leisure facilities
Saturday evening, or receive vouchers to eat in the surrounding area. For a chance to win this fantastic prize, simply write no more than 150 words on why you think Telford could be your ideal weekend getaway. Send this, along with your name, address and telephone number to Telford Tourist Summer Competition, Wrekin Road, Telford, Shropshire TF2 9TL.
The Telford Tourist - Summer 2011
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Top 5 events to do this summer
Picture: www.telegraph.co.uk
Sheep race at Hoo Farm
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divided into categories - farm animals, reptiles, birds and amphibHoo Farm ians. When walking around each section, staff are on hand to allow Kingdom children (and adults!) to touch some of the animals, such as owls For a fun packed or tortoises.
family day out, Hoo Farm is a must see! With a wide selection of animals to see, ranging from deer to meerkats, there is something for everyone.
Children will be in their eliment as they are able to walk around the trail and answer quiz questions, which may win them a prize. The animals on the farm are
For those with pony-mad children, they will have the chance to have a ride on the adorable shetland ponies. Alternatively, there are go-karts available to keep them entertained. There are a number of cafe’s available for refreshments, or you are more than welcome to bring your own. Hoo Farm provides pic-
nic benches and designated eating areas, which are free from our four legged friends! Hoo Farm is famous for the Steeplechase, where visitors have a chance to see sheep and goats racing. During summer, the Steeplechase takes place on a daily basis - so don’t miss out! With something for everyone, Hoo Farm really is an excellent family day out! Family tickets, including entry for two adults and three children, cost £33.00. For more information on Hoo Farm visit www.hoofarm.co.uk.
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The Telford Tourist - Summer 2011
Shrewsbury Flower Show
Don’t be put off by its title - The Shrewsbury Flower Show offers various events to suit everyone. Why not get involved? The show offers over 250 classes including flower arranging and wine making. Peter Road-Night, secretary of the show, said: “Our success is no doubt due to the diversity of attractions we offer in addition to the floral aspect of the show.” The show will also include motorcycle displays, freefall parachuting and music by military bands. Road-Night added: “In a good year we get 50,000 visitors over the two days.” The show will take place on August 12 and 13 at The Quarry in Shrewsbury. Tickets cost £24.00 for one adult. For more information or to order tickets, visit www.shrewsburyflowershow.org.uk.
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A variety of flowers will be on show on August 12 and 13
Cosford Air Show
For a fun filled day that will appeal to all ages - from children to grandparents - the Cosford Air Show is the perfect choice. The Air show, on June 12, not only offers spectacular air displays, but various family attractions. John Francis, former manager of RAF Cosford for 23 years, said the main selling point is the family show
Planes will be on show, both in the air and on the ground, at Cosford Air Show atmosphere.
Picture: Cosfod Air Show leaflet
The show also attracts RAF veterans, potential recruits and people who love a day out with an atmosphere. John continued: “The show offers an exciting five and a half hours of displays; a variety of things to do and see on site and the best aviation in the country.” The show, which has been running since 1992, will include displays
from the Red Arrows, The Falcons and The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. John added: “The average annual attendance at the RAF Cosford Show is around 50,000.” Tickets cost £19.00 in advance, or £25.00 on the gate for adults. For more information on the show or to book advance tickets, visit www.cosfordairshow.co.uk or call
0844 561 1897.
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Telford Wonderland
Located next to Telford Town Park, children can go on the Wood Trail, looking for wildlife but also exploring hidden surprises along the way. Within the wood are houses of various fairytale characters where children can go and look inside. If your children love dressing up, why not visit Princess and Pirates Day? On August 29, Bank Holiday Monday, a special event is being held that allows children to follow a Treasure map to find hidden treasure. Furthermore, those children dressed as a pirate or princess will have a free round of crazy golf. A cafe is available onsite but you are also welcome to bring your own lunch with you. Picnic benches are located throughout the woods. If you are hoping to make your
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Telford Steam Railway
For those train enthusiasts out there, why not take a trip to Telford Steam Railway? Volunteers of the railway offer rides on Sundays and Bank Holi-
“ For Father’s day
Two attractions for the price of one day extra special for you children, why not go to Jungleland too? You may think it is all expense but admission to Jungleland is also included in entry to Wonderland. Jungleland includes a huge jungle themed ball pit for children to enjoy. Don’t worry Mum and Dad, you will be able to relax after a
busy day at the cafe on site! A family ticket will cost £31.50 for two adults and three children, which is excellent value as it can be used for two separate attractions. For more information or to book tickets visit www.wonderlandtelford.net.
steam engines, 15 minutes driving the train, and includes unlimited travel for your family all day.
furry friends along too!
This will give you the perfect chance to explore Telford, and perhaps give you inspiration on where to visit next time! Telford Steam Railway is also hosting a Teddy Bears’ Picnic on August 28 and 29. Life-size bears will be patrolling the train and interacting with visitors. Children are more than welcome to bring their
For the Teddy Bears’ Picnic, tickets for adults cost £6.00 and £4.00 for children. Dave Angell, marketing director of Telford Steam Railway, said: “The Teddy Bear event is well enjoyed - kids bring bears, get sweets and we have bears on the train.” To get to the station, take the exit at junction six of the M54. Follow the signs for the railway.
days, hosting a series of special events. For Father’s day, on June 19, why not treat your Dad to driving a steam train? The Telford Steam Railway
Picture: www.telfordsteamrailway.co.uk
... why not treat your Dad to driving a steam train? ”
For just £25.00, your dad will have 15 minutes learning about
Picture: Wonderland/Jungleland Telford
If your children love fairytales and stories they are sure to love Wonderland.
Opinion
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The Telford Tourist - Summer 2011
Telford Shopping
Sophie Morgan reviews the fantastic shopping facilities available in Telford With more than 175 shops under one roof, attracting over 15 million shoppers per year, what makes Telford Shopping Centre so special in comparison to others in the area? Not only does the centre offer an excellent selection of shops, ranging from fashion to top class outdoor equipment, there is a huge outdoor park and adjacent ice rink, bowling alley and multi-cinema complex. All combined together, they create an exciting and exhilarating outing for people of all ages. Julie Turner, of the Telford Tourist Information Centre, suggests that the Frog Clock is another reason why shoppers are attracted to Telford as opposed to Shrewsbury or Wolverhampton. The clock, in the shape of a frog, chimes every hour releasing bubbles into the air, with children eagerly awaiting underneath. Arguably, another main selling point of the centre is that everything is under one roof – so no quick dashes from shop to shop to avoid
being caught in a downpour! Julie added: “It is definitely beneficial that everything is under one roof for shoppers. The other unique selling point of the centre is that it is all on one level.” Being on one level is extremely useful, not only for those who are disabled, but also those with pushchairs, both of which can change a shopping trip from a pleasurable outing into an ordeal. Compared to the Darwin and Pride Hill shopping centres in Shrewsbury, which are on three levels, shopping in Telford is a breeze! Additionally, the centre of Shrewsbury is on a steep hill making it incredibly difficult for those shoppers who are unable to walk far. Pat Morgan, a 72-year-old grandmother, said: “Shopping at Telford is much more practical compared to the likes of Wolverhampton, and Shrewsbury especially.” Furthermore, the centre contains all the latest shops for the younger generation, including Topshop, New Look, H&M for women and Topman, Burton and River Island for men. Julie claimed that there are not as many shops for the older generations. However, this is not the case. With a large Marks and Spencer
From left clockwise: Telford Shopping Centre; House of Fraser; inside the centre.
store, BHS, Clarks and Debenhams, the older generation have as much choice as their younger counterparts. Additionally, the centre has seen changes in recent years, including the building of the House of Fraser, which includes various concession stores, and the expansion of Primark. Both developments are
“Shopping is much more practical compared to... Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury...” invaluable in creating a special shopping atmosphere for shoppers of all budgets. Some believe that there are not enough shops in Telford Shopping Centre, for example shopper Laura Bellamy. Since experiencing the shopping in Leeds while away at university, she claims that the centre itself is not big enough and shops are closing. Admittedly some shops have closed in the past year due to the recession, but surely this is apparent in shopping centres throughout the country?
The Telford Tourist - Summer 2011
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Follow a Telford tourist
Tourists in Telford come from all walks of life – and there is no better way to discover what they think of the town than to follow them over their stay, so we decided to follow a tourist...
Patricia Spears, from Tywyn in Wales, visited her friend who moved to Telford several years ago. Arriving on a Tuesday morning and leaving on Thursday afternoon, The Telford Tourist follows Patricia on her mid-week break. Where did you stay during your visit? I stayed at The Tontine Hotel in Ironbridge as it was conveniently close to my friend’s house. It had beautiful views overlooking the Ironbridge and was within easy reach of the Ironbridge Gorge museums. There was also a range of unique restaurants and cafes in the area. The hotel was around a ten minute drive from the centre of Telford so close to the attractions. Would you recommend it? Yes definitely. The hotel allowed me to have a single occupancy rate which can be difficult to find. It cost just £30 a night including breakfast which was very reasonable. The price was not compromised by a grimy hotel either, the room was clean and had an en-suite. What did you do during your stay in Telford? After a fairly long journey on the Tuesday, my friend and I decided to go for a meal to catch up. She advised me on the Masons Arms The Tontine Hotel overlooks the Ironbridge
Patricia enjoying a day at David Austin Roses in Kemberton which was an old country pub. Set in a beautiful village just minutes from Telford, the views were amazing and there was an outdoor seating area with picnic benches. Unfortunately it was far too chilly to sit outside, but as it warms up for summer I imagine it would be a lovely setting. The food was excellent too – nothing beats home-made country pub food!
“I definately would advise people thinking of visiting to come to Telford.” And for the remainder of your stay? On Wednesday we visited David Austin Roses near Albrighton and had a lovely time. The roses at the centre are excellent with a wide range on offer. There was also a cafe which serves lunch, which was very traditional as it served tea and scones in the afternoon! The gift shop was very well stocked, allowing me to buy a few gifts for the family at home. In the evening my friend Margaret
and I went to The Woodbridge Inn near Broseley, just a five minute drive from my hotel. The food and service was excellent and we both thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. As I was leaving on Thursday I didn’t want to do anything too strenuous. In the end we decided to head to Telford Shopping Centre as they had a huge range of shops compared to Tywyn! We just had enough time to have lunch in the Marks and Spencer cafe before heading to the train station for my journey home. Did you enjoy your stay? Yes I thoroughly enjoyed my visit. It was great to catch up with my friend and to visit new places. What did you think of Telford as a place for tourists? I believe Telford is a very good place for tourists. There is a lot to do for the older generation, such as historic sites. I would have loved to have gone to the Ironbridge Gorge museums but unfortunately I didn’t have enough time – maybe next time though!
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The Telford Tourist - Summer 2011
The best places to stay in Telford
Telford’s Premier Inn
For a cheaper getaway, why not try camping?
Premier Inn at Telford Central
The Green Caravan Park
Situated next to Telford Central train station, the Premier Inn is in an excellent location in the heart of the town.
Located in a tranquil location next to the Longmynd and Styperstones, The Green Caravan Park is perfect for exploring the surrounding countryside.
The centre of Telford is a five minute walk, and is close to road links, such as the M54 which connects the town to Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury. As you would expect from a chain hotel, rooms are spotlessly
Rooms are spotlessly clean with flat screen televisions and ensuites. clean with flat screen televisions and en-suites. Rooms include family rooms for two adults and two children, or three adults. Connected to the hotel is Euston Way, with a picnic area and children’s play area. The Beefeater restaurant provides excellent value meals, with a daytime meal deal costing just £6.99, and an extra £2.00 for either a starter or desert. Breakfast is not included in the price but can be added on for an extra charge. Prices start from £29.00 per night. For more information visit www.premierinn.com.
With a stream running through the camp-site, a children’s play area and even goats on site, it really is the ideal getaway for both families and couples.
The Green Park Caravan Park is perfect for exploring the surrounding countryside. In the village of Wentnor in Shropshire, there is a pub just a minutes walk away for a relaxing evening meal. The camp-site has hot showers, hair dryers and its own shop. Electric hook up is also available at an extra charge. If you are looking for a quiet camp-site for a relaxing weekend, or somewhere to pitch up camp after an energetic day walking the hills, The Green Caravan Park is perfect. A two person tent costs £13.00 and £14.50 for a caravan per night. For more information ring (01588) 650065.
The Telford Tourist - Summer 2011
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The magnificent Madeley Court Hotel
The Madeley Court Hotel If you want to be treated like a princess on a fairytale weekend away, Madeley Court Hotel is the perfect option. When arriving at the hotel, after meandering through a woodland driveway, the historic brickwork of Madeley Court simply will take your breath away. Dating back to the 8th century, the hotel is full or character
The hotel’s bar leads out onto decking over the lake – excellent for a beer in the sunshine. The menu in the bar is very reasonable, ranging from sandwiches to burgers. Peta added that the bar over the lake is a lovely setting where guests regularly enjoy relaxing in the summer months. For a more formal evening meal there is the Priory restaurant within the hotel. The ‘Focus Real Deal’, for £60.00 per person, includes a three course evening meal, half a bottle of house wine, a full English breakfast as well as overnight accommodation. For more information contact Madeley Court Hotel on (01952) 680068.
and history, including a wooden spiral staircase adding to its quirky feel. All rooms are en-suite and come with free wi-fi, and many even having four poster beds. Manager of events at Madeley Court, Peta Baka, said: “The rooms really are amazing. Some are modern whereas others are more traditional. It is up to the guest which they would prefer to stay in.” When you decide to venture out of your room, the grounds
Inside Madeley Court Hotel
Picture: www.hotels-telford.com
“The rooms really are amazing. Some are modern whereas others are more traditional.”
surrounding the hotel must be explored. With acres of woodland to walk through, it will top a relaxing stay. There is also a lake against the backdrop of the oldest part of the hotel.
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The Telford Tourist - Summer 2011
Travelling a little further... The Bullring Just a 30 minute train ride from Telford Central is the shopping gem of the Midlands; the Bullring. The Bullring, which cost a staggering £800m to construct, is home to almost every shop known to British shoppers.
Opened in 2003, there are over 160 shops, which are set over three floors, to keep everyone occupied. Shopper and Birmingham resident, Jessica Neumann, said: “ It has everything a shopper would need - both designer and high street brands.”
The ‘spaceship’ exterior of the Bullring Summers.
The centre houses all the main high street stores including River Island, New Look, Topshop and H&M.
Jessica added: “As the second biggest city in England, the Bullring was long overdue. Not only does it have a huge range of shops, but it also has various places for refreshments.”
It also houses music stores, such as HMV, chocolate shops such as Thorntons and Hotel Choloat and underwear shops, La Senza and Ann
Wolverhampton Grand
Opened in 1894, the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre is still going strong. For families, Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends is to be performed on June 18 and 19. Thomas and his friends, including Percy
Photo: wolverhamptonhistory.org.uk
Thomas and his friends... will keep children eagerly interested.
Photo: geograph.org.uk
Best known for Selfridges iconic ‘spaceship’ exterior, where 15,000 aluminum discs have been placed on the outside of the building, the Bullring is definitely worth a day trip.
Arguably the restaurant with the best view in the Bullring is Nando’s. With a large decking area overlooking central Birmingham, it is the perfect setting. Trains from Telford Central run twice an hour. For more information contact Nation Rail Enquiries.
starring Steven Pinder as Reverend Shaw Moore. If you decide to treat yourself to a drink before the performance begins, there are bars on all three levels of the theatre. You are also able to order drinks so they will be ready for the interval - so no standing around in queues! It seats up to 1,200 people allowing you to relax in style and luxury with excellent leg room.
Additionally, Bob the Builder is to be performed on July 31.
The theatre is conveniently located in the centre of Wolverhampton, with the train station just a five minutes walk away. Trains from Telford Central run every twenty minutes. Car parking will cost £3.00 when ordered with theatre tickets.
From June 20 to June 25 Footloose will be shown at the theatre,
For more information contact the box office on (01902) 429212.
and James, will keep children eagerly interested.
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Readers photos and letters In the Spring edition you suggested a walk up the Wrekin. So on Easter Sunday, my wife and I decided to walk up to see the view for ourselves. Living in North Shropshire for the past 20 years we have always seen the Wrekin from a distance but never taken it upon ourselves to go up it. Easter Sunday was a glorious sunny day this year. Although it was a fairly steep climb (we are both over 60!) the view from the top was worth it. We were able to see around for miles. Others obviously had the same idea as us - the top of the Wrekin was full of walkers having picnics!
Jeremy sent in his photo of the amazing views from Lodge Hill
My wife and I would like to thank you at The Telford Tourist for finally giving us the motivation to make the most of something so close to our house. Without seeing the article suggesting readers to walk up it we would never have had the ‘get up and go’!
In the last edition of your magazine you advised people to visit Weston Park ‘s Easter Trail.
We enjoyed it so much that when our grandchildren come to visit in August we may take them up there. It is an excellent way to see miles and miles into the distance. Anyone thinking about it should give it a go (and take a picnic as a reward for reaching the top!)
This children were occupied for hours, and Easter bunnies in costumes made their day.
Graeme Field
Visiting family over the Easter weekend, we decided to take our young children. Although the staff seemed a little unorganized, the egg hunt itself was excellent.
Thank you so much for suggesting a day enjoyed by all the family. From the Harris family
On a stay at The Hem Farm, on the outskirts of Telford in April, the owners of the cottages suggested a walk around the Shifnal countryside. We walked up Lodge Hill where there were magnificent views of the countryside and poppies in the distance. The walks around Shifnal and Kemberton are extremely relaxing with lots of footpaths to choose from. I would like to make other Telford tourists aware of the walks that truly are spectacular. Jeremy Tucker
Free family entry to the Ironbridge Gorge museums
Terms and conditions 1. Voucher entitles the holder to ONE FREE entry per voucher. Family ticket includes two adults and up to three children. 2. Adults are over 18. Children must be five to 18 and in full-time education. 3. Voucher is valid from 02.05.11 until 01.09.2011. 4. Voucher must be presented upon entrance to museum’s. It will then be exchanged for a family ticket for all Ironbridge Gorge museums. 5. Only one voucher can be used per person per transaction. 6. This voucher is NOT FOR RESALE.
www.visit-telford.co.uk