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Bishops Castle & Clun Where to Eat & What to Do 2015/16

Shopping and Services Guide to Bishop’s Castle and the surrounding areas. www.bishopscastle.co.uk BCTG where to eat 2015.qxd:Layout 1 15/5/15 14:25 Page 2

Bishop’s Castle is a thriving town which offers a wide range of friendly, interesting shops, two breweries with excellent beers to sample, good local food and lots of music and festivals. We have leisure shops, individual provision shops and businesses offering range of services unexpected in so small a town. So before heading for the nearest large out-of-town supermarket to do “shopping as usual”, try Bishop’s Castle for a more enjoyable and hassle free experience. The town offers plentiful, free car parking for those with patience to negotiate its somewhat cluttered streets and lots of pubs, cafes and restaurants for rest and refreshment and good places to buy food for picnics, barbecues or evening meals (see “Where to Eat” section and “provisions” in the Shopping and Service guide. Clun too offers a wide range of shops and services with pubs, cafes, (see “Where to Eat” section), shops, galleries, a museum and a garage. Car parks are free and ruined castle with its riverside grounds and the ancient packhorse bridge make it a picturesque small town. Look for “Shropshire Hills Buy Local - Be Sustainable” leaflets and posters, a campaign to encourage residents, businesses and visitors to use local shops and services to help sustain the area’s economy. www.shropshirehills-buylocal.co.uk Bishop’s Castle’s 18th century Town Hall re-opened last summer after major renovation work (see places to visit). It hosts the visitor information service for the area, markets and many varied events – www.bishopscastletownhall.co.uk 01588 630023

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MARKET DAYS General Markets In the Town Hall: on Thursday and some other days Specialist sales on Saturdays. Contact the town hall (01588) 630023 [email protected] Lydham Friday Market at Lydham Village Hall (about 2 miles from Bishop’s Castle) Friday mornings Contact 07974 293989 [email protected] Farmers’ Market The Farmers’ Market is in the Town Hall from 10a.m. every 3rd Saturday of the month. Contact the Town Hall (01588) 630023 [email protected] Flea and Collectors’ Market At the Town Hall from 9.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. every 1st Saturday of the month. Contact the Town Hall (01588) 6300238 [email protected] Household and Antique Auctions Public Hall fortnightly, usually Saturdays with viewing on Friday evening. Contact auctioneers P & J Auctions (01743) 462763, 07974 118467 Smithfield Auction Yard, sales of sheep every Wednesday from 7.30 a.m. to 12 noon. Main all day sales of cattle and sometimes sheep on some Thursdays. The auction yard is closed for parking on sale days. Contact auctioneers Halls (01588) 638639, [email protected] Early closing day is officially on Wednesday but many shops remain open - see guide. Many local businesses can also be found at bishopscastle.biz the Bishop’s Castle Business Network

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SHOPPING AND SERVICES BROWSING SHOPS CASTLEBRIDES 1, The Cobbles, High St. SY9 5BN (01588) 638332 07814 022358 [email protected] www.castlebrides.co.uk Angela Jones We specialise in bridal gowns, bridesmaids, prom and evening wear to suit all budgets and tastes. We also have an in-house alteration service so your gown leaves the shop fitting you perfectly. Created especially for you, bespoke Gowns can be made to order. Please call in or make an appointment. Late night appointments available. Credit cards accepted. Own shop parking. Opening times Mon to Fri 9.00 a.m. - 3.00 p.m. Sat 10.00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m. GALLERY EIGHTEEN (01588) 630200 [email protected] Sue Willmer Gallery showcasing Steve Willmer’s original furniture, made from locally sourced solid timber, usually oak but also some pieces in ash, beech and walnut. Plus paintings, prints, sculptures, cards etc. made by local artists. Open Tues to Sat 11.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. Credit cards accepted. ROSIE’S SHOP 9, Market Square 07790 549751 Rosie Byrd Vintage and modern clothes, textiles, jewellery, books and more Open Tues to Sat10.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m., Occasional Sundays & Bank Holidays 11.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. ARK ANTIQUES 13, Market Square (01588) 638608 07697 157969 Jill Thomas Country oak furniture, cottage bits and pieces, ceramics, treen, rugs. Open Bank Holidays, Tues, Thurs, Fri and Sat 10.30 a.m. - 3.30 p.m. Mon, Wed and Sun by appointment. YARBOROUGH HOUSE Market Square (01588) 638318 [email protected] www.yarboroughhouse.com

Carol & Jock Wright *Coffee Shop only Yarborough House is a large second hand book and record shop. We stock 7,000 books, mostly modern, covering a wide range of subjects. Our stock of 1,000 second hand classical LPs and 4,000 CDs is one of the largest in the UK. The coffee shop serves Fair Trade tea, Expresso and cappuccino and a variety of cakes. We also have a large range of art greetings cards. Open Sat, Sun, Tues, Thurs and Fri and all Bank Holidays 10.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.

TEXTILE TRADERS 37 High St. (01588) 638712 [email protected] www.textiletraders.co.uk Jim & Diane Gaffney Specialists in fine hand made textiles from around the world, all bought from the makers on our travels. Interesting clothes, beautiful silver jewellery, embroideries, ikat weavings, batik fabrics, rugs, cushions, bedspreads, cloth by the metre, patchwork sets, puppets, curios and many other delights. A wide range of batik tools, equipment and materials. We also offer a variety of talks and workshops. Open Mon to Sat 10.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.

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SHOPPING AND SERVICES ART & ARTISAN BOOKS 26, High Street, Bishop's Castle, SY9 5BQ (01588) 630435 www.artandartisanbooks.co.uk Judith Bowen & Rachel Hawes An eclectic mix of new books on art and art related areas including crafts, gardening, cooking and general inspiration. We also stock all Persephone titles as well as kits, yarns and socks. Open Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat 10.30 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Bank Holidays. Credit cards accepted.

OLD TIME 29, High St. (01588) 638467 [email protected] www.oldtime.co.uk Jane Carroll Locally made, high quality furniture and crafts including a variety of chairs, tables, dressers, stools, standard and table lamps, clocks and barometers and upholstered furniture. Commissions welcomed for any style of furniture and repairs undertaken.. Open Mon to Sat 10.00 a.m. - 6.00 p.m. (closed Sun & Wed but available by appointment.)

JANE’S PETALS & GIFTS 10 -11, High St. (01588) 638222 [email protected] Jane Florist. Flowers for all occasions, fresh local fruit & veg plus cards and gifts. Delivery service available and wedding consultation service./ Open Mon & Tues 9.00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m. Wed 9.00 a.m. - 12.00 noon. Thurs & Fri 9.00 a.m. - 4.30 p.m. Sat 9.00 a.m. - 2.00 p.m. All credit cards accepted.

NEW STREET CYCLES, New Street, Bishops Castle Shropshire, SY9 5DQ (01588) 638060 07970 545651 or 07973 784946 [email protected] www.newstreetcycles.co.uk Malcolm & Julie Furber Pedal & Electric Cycle Sales & Hire. Stockists for FreeGo Wisper, Raleigh, Whistle, Coyote, Viking & Avocet Cycles. Our shop has a good range of cycle parts & accessories including tyres, tubes, lights, pumps, security locks, helmets, reflective wear, bags & tools. We offer Service & Repairs in our workshop. Open Mon - Fri 10.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. & 2.00 p.m. – 5.00 p.m. Sat 10.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. Out of Hours by Appointment.

DECORATIVE ANTIQUES 47, Church St, SY9 5AD. (01588) 638851 [email protected] www.decorative-antiques.co.uk Richard Moulson & Evelyn Bowles. We specialise in decorative objects of the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly Art Deco, Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau ceramics, glass, jewellery, furniture and metalware. In addition we carry out, or arrange for, a wide range of jewellery and watch repairs and alterations. Normal opening 9.30 a.m. - 5.30 p.m., on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. If you have far to come, or want access at another time, please ring first.

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SHOPPING AND SERVICES OUT OF TOWN GET AHEAD HATS, Three miles from Bishop’s Castle 01588 638246 07880 593873 [email protected] www.getaheadhats.co.uk Nowela Swanson Designer styles to hire/buy or custom made, Personal friendly service in a relaxed rural environment. Flexible opening hours - by appointment PROVISIONS THE NEW DELI, 35, High St. (01588) 638190 [email protected] Carol Naden In the magnificent Elizabethan 'Porch House', The New Deli specialises in British cheeses - with fresh bread and croissants, delicatessen, local produce, fine wines, beers and chocolates with kitchen/cookware, everyday essentials and some seasonal produce. Open Tues - Sat. Closed Sunday & Monday.

BUTCHER, ANDREW J. PUGH 46, Church St (01588) 638584 This is now the only butchers left in Bishop’s Castle and Andrew and Tom Pugh trade in the old fashioned way, sourcing meat from farmers and hanging it on the bone for the required time. Our home cured bacon and handmade Shropshire pork sausages are a speciality. We stock pies made by Reg May of Ditton Priors, cheeses from north Shropshire, local bread and preserves and vegetables in season. We will prepare packed lunches to order and we cook pies, baps, curries and hot pots to take away. We are able and pleased to supply B&Bs and catering businesses with our quality products. Open Mon, Tues, Thurs and Fri 8.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m., Wed 8.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m. Sat 8.00 a.m. - 3.00 p.m. Food Hygiene Rating 5 OUT OF TOWN HARVEST WHOLEFOODS, Lydham SY9 5HB (01588) 638990 Sue Jones We are a large, friendly and helpful wholefood shop offering a huge range ofnatural & organic wholefoods, organic fruit & veg, eggs & bread, special dietary foods, dried herbs & spices natural remedies & skin care organic garden seed & compost, crafts, crystals etc. Bulk items available to order. Open Mon to Sat 9.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. NORMAN JONES (01588) 638677 [email protected] 07971 252069 www.normanjonesdomesticappliances.co.uk Sale and repair of new and used domestic appliances - e.g. cookers, fridges, washers, dryers etc. Same day - next day service where possible. Vacuum bags and other accessories in stock. For Vacuum Repairs-Washing Machine Sales-Vac Bags/Belts find us at The Lydham Friday Market.

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SHOPPING AND SERVICES

LYDHAM FRIDAY MARKET, Lydham Village Hall 07974 293989 [email protected] www.lydhamfridaymarket.co.uk www.facebook.com/pages/Bishops- Castle-Area-Friday-Market-at-Lydham-Village-Hall/177443655681734 W.Prosser, Personnel Manager Fruit and Veg, Flowers, Fresh Local Bread, Cakes and Pastries, Fresh Fish, local Free Range Meats, a variety of Cheese, Pickles, and Eggs, Specialist teas and home made sweets. Browse round our craft and gift stalls including Ethnic Clothing/Incense/Cards, Knitted Clothes, Printed Goods, Baskets, Pottery and Plants. There are also sometimes stalls selling up-cycled clothes, Phoenix cards and handmade jewellery and publicising Shropshire Wildlife Trust.Then why not enjoy a cup of coffee/tea and bite to eat at our popular Cafe, selling hot/cold drinks and snacks. You can also buy or order Fitted Kitchens, buy Electrical Goods or arrange Repairs. Open weekly, FRIDAYS, 8.00a.m. – 2.00p.m.

SERVICES G. & J.L. EDWARDS CHURCH ST. GARAGE Church St. Garage Grant and John (01588) 638707 MOT Centre, vehicle repairs and servicing, tyres, exhausts and batteries. Open Mon to Fri 8.30 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. Sat by appointment only.

UNION STREET GARAGE (Bishop’s Castle Limited) (01588) 638349 www.unionstreetgarage.co.uk [email protected] MOTs for Class 4 Vehicles, Servicing and Repairs, Diesel and Red Diesel Sales. Open Mon to Fri 8.30 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. Saturday mornings by appointment.

HALLS, 43, Church Street (01588) 638639/638755 [email protected] Auctioneers, valuers, surveyors, land and estate agents offering a professional service in residential sales and lettings, agricultural property sales, livestock auction sales and fine art and chattel auction sales. Open Mon to Fri 9.00 a.m. - 5.15 p.m., Sat 9.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m. WACE MORGAN TOMLEYS SOLICITORS INCORPORATING SNOWS 23A High Street, Bishop’s Castle, SY9 5BE (01588) 638425 www.wacemorgantomleys.co.uk [email protected] Specialist legal advice, available by appointment in Bishop’s Castle on Fridays.

BUBBLES & CO, 15, High St. Emma (01588) 638656 Ladies and gents hairdressing. Appointments not always necessary. Specialising in all the up to date colouring techniques. We have a team of specialised bridal consultants and make-up artists. We also offer manicures and pedicures and shellac pedicures, nail extensions and shellac nails. Call today for your free consultation. Stockists of Moroccan Oil products, Kerastraight and OPI products. Open Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri 9.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m., Thurs 10 a.m. - 7.30 p.m., Sat 9.00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m.

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SHOPPING AND SERVICES

ENTERPRISE HOUSE Station Street, Bishop’s Castle SY9 5AQ (01588) 638038 (tel/fax) [email protected] www.bishopscastle.co.uk Drop-in IT Centre with internet access, e-mail and fax. Office services such as photocopying, binding and laminating and digital camera downloads and prints. We also provide DTP Services for leaflets, flyers, business cards etc. PC and Apple Mac support and hands-on beginners’ courses and bespoke training. Open 9 a.m. - 5p.m. Mon, Wed, Thurs and 9 a.m. - 7.00 p.m. Tuesday and Friday. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Sat. Closed for lunch 1p.m. - 1.30 p.m. weekdays. The Public Library and Dial-a-Ride service share the same building.

WHERE TO EAT IN & AROUND BISHOP’S CASTLE & CLUN RESTAURANTS, CAFES AND TEA ROOMS BISHOP’S CASTLE (from the top of town) THE CASTLE HOTEL The Square, Bishop's Castle, Shropshire, SY9 5BN (01588) 638403 [email protected] www.thecastlehotelbishopscastle.co.uk Henry & Rebecca Hunter An eighteenth century Coaching Inn on elevated ground on the site of the original castle, with panoramic views and fabulous gardens. The Castle has a busy kitchen producing modern pub food that is healthy, hearty, flavoursome and fresh. And great value. And you’ve a wide choice of eating venues. Three bars, each with their own individual character, some with terraces out into the garden, some with real fires, and all with real ale. Try the oak panelled restaurant, believed to feature in the Mary Webb novel “The House in Dormer Forest”. And when the weather is warm, take a drink, (or even dinner itself), to the beautiful south facing gardens with fantastic terrace and raised fish ponds.And watch the sun go down over the Welsh hills beyond. Open for food: Mon to Fri 11.30 a.m. - 2.30 p.m. and 6.30 p.m. - 8.45 p.m. Sat/Sun open all day. Breakfasts from 8.00 a.m. – 9.30 a.m. Booking advisable for Friday and Saturday evening and Sunday lunch. Average main dish price: evening £10.95, lunchtime £8.00 Type of menu: modern pub food cooked on the premises using local ingredients whenever possible. And very good coffee! Trad. ales: supplied by Hobsons, Six Bells, Three Tuns and Clun Breweries. Food Hygiene Rating 5 (see “Where to stay” booklet)

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WHERE TO EAT THE THREE TUNS SALOP STREET Bishop’s Castle, Shropshire, SY9 5BW (01588) 638797 www.thethreetunsinn.co.uk Tim and Catherine Curtis-Evans This famous and historic pub and brewery has been the “beating heart” of Bishops Castle since 1642. Refurbished and enlarged, it still maintains the spirit of the original pub - public bar, snug bar, lounge bar - but with the addition of a classy oak framed, glass sided dining room. A bustling, lively atmospheric pub created by the many charismatic locals who regard “The Tuns” as their home from home; it serves a wondrous array of real ales from the adjoining brewery, XXX, 1642, Clerics Cure, Rantipole plus seasonal offerings. Open all day, every day. Open for food: Mon - Sat 12.00noon - 2.30p.m. and 6.30p.m. - 9.00p.m. Sun 12.00noon - 3.00p.m. Average dish price: £12.00. Type of menu: A modern, eclectic menu using locally sourced, fresh ingredients e.g. for starters: Chicken, sausage and thyme ballotine with sweetcorn puree, sauté king prawns & chorizo with balsamic reduction or seafood fishcakes with aioli. Main courses include grilled sea bass with shellfish & saffron sauce, free range chicken with roast garlic sauce, the 'infamous Three Tuns burger as well as ‘probably’ the best ribeye steaks in Shropshire. A restored and characterful function room sees everything from live music (jazz to rock to classical) to line dancing, Morris dancing, film club. No piped music or fruit machines. We are proud to be supporters of the annual Bishops Castle Real Ale Festival. Food Hygiene Rating 5 (See the Three Tuns Brewery in “Places to Visit” section)

THE GANGES BALTI RESTAURANT & TAKE-AWAY 12, Market Square, Bishop’s Castle SY9 5BN (01588) 638543 [email protected] www.thegangesrestaurant.co.uk M.A. Zafor This award winning, popular restaurant has been in the centre of the oldest part of the town, close to the castle wall, for 21 years. It specialises in Tandoori and signature dishes and has built an excellent reputation on customers’ recommendations.The 28 seater restaurant has been awarded a Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor and in is the current Good Curry Guide. Open for Food: every day including Bank Holidays, 5.30 p.m. – 12.00 midnight, Sat & Sun 12.00 noon – 2.00 p.m. Booking advisable at weekends. Type of menu: a large range of Indian dishes cooked on the premises with Tandoori and Ganges specials. Dinner costs an average of £11 to £15. The Ganges offers wide range of non-alcoholic drinks. Diners are free to bring their own wine or beer and there is no corkage charge. The Ganges also offers a take-away service and outside catering for small or large groups. 10% discount when booking on-line for students & Bishop’s Castle footballers and cricketers. Food Hygiene Rating 4

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WHERE TO EAT THE POPPY HOUSE (TEA ROOMS) Market Square, Bishop’s Castle SY9 5BN (01588) 638443 [email protected] www.poppyhouse.co.uk Clive and Julie Hayward A family-run licensed Tea Rooms and Restaurant.We have recently refurbished our tea rooms with a comfy leather sofa and new wooden furniture for a contemporary feel. Open 10.00am - 4.00pm Wednesdays - Mondays Closed on Tuesdays. Type of menu: We serve traditional hearty British food. Home-made cakes, sandwiches, lunches, with daily specials always available and various hot, cold and alcoholic drinks. All food is freshly prepared on the premises using local produce where available. Traditional Sunday lunches are available throughout the year, £6.95 (£5.95 smaller portions), full English all-day breakfasts from £4.95 and our bargain bacon butty at £2.75!! Take-away menu available. Please let us know if you have any special dietary requirements and we will do our best to accommodate your needs. Our restaurant is available any evening for private parties, offering anything from a 3-course meal to a buffet for a minimum of 10 people. Please contact us to discuss your requirements. Off-site catering can also be provided. We also offer B&B accommodation. Food Hygiene Rating 5 (see the “Where to Stay” booklet)

THE DRAGON’S LAIR Chinese & English Meals to Take Away 13, Market Square, Bishop’s Castle SY9 5AS 01588) 630255 [email protected] Nghi Ho We are a family business using traditional Chinese home style cooking with natural ingredients. Open 4.30p.m. to 10.00 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays Telephone orders welcome. Please speak to our staff about ingredients in your meal when making your order.. Food Hygiene Rating 5

THE HAPPY BAP 39, High St., Bishop’s Castle SY9 5BE 07805 797746 [email protected] Steve Whittingham An old café situated next to the newly refurbished Town Hall, at the bottom of The Cobbles with ample seating and also summer time seating in the rear garden. Subs, sarnies, soups and spuds. All made from the locally sourced produce, organic and always top quality. Fresh coffees, cakes and cold drinks. Eatin or takeaway. Toilets (without disabled access), high chairs. Free Wi-Fi. Sorry no dogs. Open 8.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. every day but Sunday (closed) and Wednesday when we close at 2.30 p.m. Food Hygiene Rating 5

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WHERE TO EAT THE CHAI SHOP High St., Bishop’s Castle SY9 5BQ 07790 194782 (01588) 640280 (evenings only). Tahira A café and takeaway on the lower floor of the historic Porch House with a glazed front onto the main street. Indian snacks, curries & sweets and cakes and vegetarian food to takeaway or eat in. Gluten free, dairy free and vegan options available. Catering for all occasions – weddings, funerals, parties and community events. Open 10.30 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. Monday to Saturday. Food Hygiene Rating 5

KIRSTY'S CAFÉ New Street, Bishop’s Castle SY9 5DQ (01588 )638115, Facebook kirstys café Kirsty Burton Serving Breakfast and Lunch, Full English Breakfasts, hot and cold sandwiches, panini's, omelettes, Burgers, specials board , homemade cakes, fresh coffee, milkshakes. Eat in or Takeaway. Free WiFi.Walkers and cyclists welcome in wet and muddy gear. Dogs welcome outside. Open Monday to Saturday 8:30 a.m. -3:00 p.m . Food Hygiene Rating 5 Disabled access . . THE BOARS HEAD Church Street, Bishop’s Castle, Shropshire, SY9 5AE (01588) 638521 [email protected] www.boarsheadhotel.co.uk Darren & Stuart Run this 16th century former coaching inn. Open from 10.30 a.m. for morning coffee through until 22.30 p.m. Monday – Thursday, 23.30 p.m., Friday & Saturday and 22.30 Sundays! Winner of the Cask Marque Award for excellence in Keeping Beer & Home of locally Brewed Ludlow Gold! Great Selection of Wines! Food served all day, everyday from 12.00 - 21.00 Monday – Saturday, Sunday from Nov. - May 12.00 - 20.00, from June – Oct. 12.00 – 21.00. Average main dish price: £9.95 - £16.95. Snacks from £2.50. Type of Menu: We offer a selection of hearty English pub food, using locally sourced ingredients where ever possible. Pizzas Baked in – house, Grill Menu, Traditional Fish & Chips. Pasta Dishes. Vegetarian & Gluten Free Options, Dedicated children’s & seniors menu!. Food Hygiene Rating 5, 4 Star AA Rated, Drink! Dine! Dream! (see “Where to stay” booklet)

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WHERE TO EAT THE SIX BELLS INN & BREWERY Church Street, Bishop’s Castle, Shropshire SY9 5AA (01588) 638930 www.sixbellsbrewery.co.uk John & Mary Stradling *limited, please check A classic old fashioned pub, formerly a coaching Inn that has been brewing for over 20 years.The pub is cat and dog friendly and welcomes walkers & cyclists in wet and muddy gear.The pub has wood fires in winter, and offers classic pub food and a few modern dishes too that will suit all tastes.The brewery is famous for providing a great range of exciting quality ales to the enthusiastic drinker. Open Monday to Friday 12.00 noon – 3.00 p.m. and 5.00 p.m. – 11.00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday 12.00 noon - 11.00 p.m. Food: Mon,Tues & Wed, sandwiches only at lunchtimes.Thurs & Fri full lunchtime menus. Evenings: full menu & curry on Thurs, full menu & fish and chips on Fri, full menu Saturday to 9.00p.m and Sun to 5.00 p.m. with the option of traditional roasts. Type of Menu: We focus on home style cooking using the best locally sourced products from the region. We offer light snacks to full meals at lunch times and provide a range of evening meals which include fish and vegetarian options. Trad ales: brewed on the premises. Cloud Nine (4.2%), Ow Do! (4.0%) and Big Nevs (3.8%) are the standard beers but in addition we have a monthly special and seasonal beers available. Brewery tours can be arranged, please call to arrange. Food Hygiene Rating 5 CLUN & THE CLUN VALLEY THE WHITE HORSE INN The Square, Clun, Shropshire SY7 8JA (01588) 640305 [email protected] www.whi-clun.co.uk Jack Limond A cosy, lively 18th century coaching inn & post-house standing on the old Market Square, 2 minutes from the castle. Enjoy a warm welcome and relax in front of the log fire. Open for food: lunchtimes 12.00 noon - 2.00p.m., 3.00 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays 12.30 p.m. – 2.30 p.m. and evenings 6.30p.m. - 8.30p.m. every day. Type of menu: A variety of home-made specials for the carnivore, vegetarian and vegan.We have a regular menu of snacks and bar food. Price range: £8.95 - £15.95. Trad. Ale from our own micro brewery: Wye Valley, Butty Bach, Hobson's Bitter, plus two guest ales and a real cider. Cask Marque Holder. Food Hygiene Rating 5 (see “Where to stay” booklet) THE MALTINGS CAFE 12, High Street, Clun, Shropshire SY7 8JB (01588) 640539 [email protected]. Sarah & Stig Welcome you to their warm, cosy and friendly Cafe situated on the ground floor of a 17th century beautifully renovated old Malthouse We offer a wide range of Home Cooked food using locally sourced and produced ingredients whenever possible. These include anything from a Full English Breakfast (with Clun Sausages, Bacon and Eggs) to Sandwiches, Baguettes, Delicious Hot Homemade Meals, Filled Jacket Potatoes, Teacakes, Scones and locally baked Cakes. We also have a "Special's Board" with Hearty Meals such as Clun Venison Casserole, Burgundy Beef, Goulash and a choice of Homemade Soups. Vegetarian and Gluten Free options always available. Open: Mon to Sat 09.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. Sun 10.00 a.m – 4.00 p.m. We welcome Hikers, Bikers (motorised or not!), Children and Dogs. TAKEAWAYS AND FREE WIFI Food Hygiene Rating 5

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WHERE TO EAT THE OLD WHEELWRIGHTS TEAROOM AND B&B Little Brampton, Clunbury, Shropshire. SY7 0HH (01588) 660141 annie@theoldwheelwrights www.theoldwheelwrights.co.uk Annie & Andy Sutton Set in the stunning Clun Valley, with,The Old Wheelwrights Tearoom is situated at the front of the 18th Century home of Annie and Andy. Serving freshly prepared home cooked food sourced as locally as possible, with vegetarian/vegan options. Our Little Brampton and Big Brampton breakfasts available from 9am - 1pm.A selection of homemade cakes, sandwiches, salads, snacks, soups and jacket potatoes available. Vegetarian/vegan/coeliac diets catered for. Open Feb to Nov 9am to 5pm Tuesday -Sunday. Full DISABLED ACCESS AND TOILET Food Hygiene Rating 5 ROUND & ABOUT THE BRIDGES Bridges, Ratlinghope, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY5 0S (01588) 650260 www.thebridgespub.co.uk Peter & Sarah Crouch The Bridges, where two rivers meet, a rare and magical place. Described as the country’s most beautiful country pub location in the foothills of the Long Mynd and Stiperstones, the heart of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Bridges is “the” destination pub on the Shropshire Way. Stunning walks and biking routes criss-cross the venue.A Mecca for lovers of the outdoors, great music and performing arts. Open from 11.00 a.m. - 11.00 p.m. Food served all day from 12.00 noon. - 9.00p.m. Homemade food to suit all tastes including bar-snacks, homemade cakes, restaurant menu and our UK Top 50 Independent award winning Sunday Roast. A Three Tuns Brewery Tap House, serving a fantastic range of real ales and ciders. Food Hygiene Rating 5 (see “Where to Stay” and events section)

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WHAT TO SEE & DO WHAT TO SEE & DO IN & AROUND BISHOP’S CASTLE & CLUN Bishop’s Castle is a small, market town at the centre of magnificent, unspoilt hill country. The prominent 18th century Town Hall, which has undergone a major renovation, stands at the top of the main street, and is the centre for much activity in the town (see Places to Visit). There are two museums and a Heritage Resource Centre, two breweries, including the oldest licensed brewery in the country (see places to visit). Many pubs, restaurants and cafes and shops catering for almost every need (see shopping and services guide) line the main street. There is frequent evening entertainment and the town is a centre for live music and crafts and art. Clun is a smaller, quieter and more picturesque town with its ancient packhorse bridge, the only river crossing, impressive ruined Norman castle and romantic river. It offers more limited services while still being a good place to eat, drink and shop. There are lively pubs, a brewery, cafes, galleries and independent shops. The towns and nearby villages host a series of festivals throughout the year (see events list). Both towns are situated in the sparsely populated valleys and uplands of Shropshire Hills and the Welsh border, and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Public footpaths, stiled and way marked, will take you well off the beaten track. Many walks in the area are downloadable from www.bishopscastle.co.uk. A good map will prove most useful, highly recommended is the Ordnance Survey Landranger map 137 (Ludlow, Wenlock Edge and surrounding area). For even greater details use the Explorer Maps 216 (Welshpool & Montgomery/Bishops Castle), 217 (the Long Mynd) and 201 (Clun). The new Harvey Map - Shropshire Way, Shropshire Hills section - is excellent for this area. There is a wide selection of maps and local books available locally. Walking maps and booklets, including “Walking for Pleasure” series and circular walks around Bishop’s Castle & Clun are also available at the Visitor Information at the Town Hall along with leaflets about nearby towns and places of interest. There are also Visitor Information Points in many of the villages which have useful local information and leaflet racks in many pubs and shops. This area is ideal for a host of other outdoor sports and activities - riding, cycling, tennis, orienteering, fishing, shooting, hang-gliding and other flying sports and studying wildlife. It is also rich in history; castles as well as museums, big and small, abound. Entertainment in the region ranges from Morris dancing to music festivals. There are concerts, films, theatre and regular live music at various venues from pubs to village halls and schools. SpArC in Bishop’s Castle has a swimming pool, leisure centre and squash courts and a theatre with a programme of professional theatre and film events throughout the year (see places to visit). See local posters, “Broad Sheep”, the Herefordshire/Shropshire borders listings magazine - telephone 01544 260051 or go to www.broadsheep.com and “Spotlight”, a what’s on leaflet published in Bishop’s Castle and downloadable from the town website. There is a variety of town and country accommodation on offer, from inns and farmhouses to bunk houses, camping and caravan sites, youth hostels (Clun & Bridges), B&Bs and hotels and self-catering flats and cottages. They make an excellent base for exploring the area. See the back page for details of how to obtain more information.

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WHAT TO SEE & DO LOCAL BEAUTY SPOTS There is a regular bus service from Bishop’s Castle to Shrewsbury except on Sundays, which gives access to the Stiperstones, Mitchells fold and Bromlow Callow - www.minsterleymotors.co.uk The Shropshire Hills Shuttle Buses (www.shropshirehillsshuttles.co.uk) run at weekends from early May to the end of September and can be used to access villages and the hills. The “Castle Connect” shuttle bus links Clun and Bishop’s Castle to Ludlow via Knighton, Bucknell, Brampton Bryan and Bromfield. Shuttle Buses also give access to the Long Mynd and Stiperstones. (see back page for more details BURY DITCHES AND COLSTEY WOODS A well preserved Iron Age hill fort at the summit of Forestry Commission woodland. There are marvellous, panoramic views over the surrounding countryside, a picnic area and car park. Shell fossils abound in the stones around the fort. Graded walks and a nature trail give visitors the opportunity to see the woodland and its wildlife. Directions: From Bishop’s Castle take B4385 towards Craven Arms and Lydbury North. Turn off right to Brockton and follow the road through Lower Down. Carry straight on towards Clunton and at the top of a rise is a clearing on the right for car parking. Walk up the path (not the forest road) and at the top climb over the gate. On leaving turn right and follow the road to Clunton (turning right again to Clun). From Clun take the B4368 to Clunton and turn left. The carpark is about two miles on the left. OFFA’S DYKE The ancient ditch and dyke which once formed part of the England/Wales border runs a few miles to the West of Bishop’s Castle and Clun, it crosses the valley near Newcastle-on-Clun and this stretch contains some of the best preserved examples of the original earthwork. Many serious walkers do the whole length - a holiday in itself - but it is well worth walking short sections. Directions: From Bishop’s Castle go along Welsh Street (left past the Town Hall) and follow the road, the Kerry Ridgeway, past Bishop’s Moat and the Dog and Duck cottage until you see sign posts for the path. Alternatively, at Bishop’s Moat take the turn for Mainstone and, in the village, turn right for Church Town. The path crosses the lane by Mainstone Church. Walking right (north) gives superb views over the Camlad valley. Walking left (south) leads over moorland and farmed upland to the valley of the River Unk. From Clun take the B4368 towards Newcastle-on-Clun and about a mile from the village the Dyke crosses the river and the road. THE KERRY RIDGEWAY This 15 mile route from Bishop’s Castle to the Cider House Farm in Powys is one of the oldest in the land - you will be walking through history from the Stone Age to the drovers of recent centuries and enjoying spectacular views from this crest. After leaving the town it never dips below 1,000ft. and 70 miles can be seen on clear days. The route is gently undulating and can be legally used by horse riders and motor bikers as well as walkers. It is crossed by ancient ditches and the way marked by Bronze Age burial sites, stone circles and earthworks of the Iron and Dark Ages. Directions: From Bishop’s Castle go left at the Town Hall (Welsh Street) or right at the Six Bells Inn (Kerry Lane) to walk up onto the Ridgeway. At this stage the Ridgeway is a metalled land and follow it until Pantglas when it veers left to cross the Kerry Hills. THE CANTLIN STONE & THE BOTFIELD CROSS Off the Kerry Ridgeway, in the heart of the Clun Forest (OS 20.2/86.9) marks the spot where a local pedlar, William Cantlin, was robbed and murdered while walking between farms in 1691. The body was taken by the parishioners of Bettws-y-Crwyn and buried in their churchyard and later this act of kindness was used in the argument over the boundary of the parish. Later, in 1858, a local landowner and M.P. named Botfield erected a limestone cross at the spot.

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WHAT TO SEE & DO Directions: From Bishop’s Castle centre turn left past the Town Hall and follow the road up on to the Kerry Ridgeway. Continue on the ridgeway until the junction about a mile past where the Offa’s Dyke crosses. Bear left and follow this small road into the woods. Take a left turn towards Crossways and Newcastle and the Cantlin Stone is a short distance away. Or go to Newcastle- on-Clun, turn left and follow the B4368 for about three miles to the Anchor Inn, which is open every evening from 7.00pm providing a warm welcome and well kept beer!, then turn right up the Sarn road for about half a mile until you reach the crossroads then turn right into the forest, follow the road for about half a mile. The Cantlin Stone is on the right. LONG MYND The dramatic hogs back hill which lies between Bishop’s Castle and Church Stretton, its steep escarpment facing west towards the former. It is the most southerly moor of its type in England, and has completely breathtaking views. The Portway, a pre-historic trackway, runs along its ridge and many public footpaths give access. Directions: From Bishop’s Castle turn left for Wentnor off the A489 (Craven Arms road) and before the village turn right to Asterton. Turn right at the junction and immediately left up the steep slope. At the top is the Midland Gliding Club and gliders and hang gliders can be seen when the weather is suitable. Alternatively, past the Green Caravan Park at Wentnor and follow the road to Bridges, turn right over the Mynd to Church Stretton. STIPERSTONES This three mile long outcrop of quartzite, a National Nature Reserve, gives a harsh landscape different to other Shropshire hills and there are many legends - the Devil is reputed to hold court here, hence the rock outcrop called the Devil’s Chair. Its mineral wealth has been exploited since Roman times and discarded shafts and abandoned engine houses can still be seen today (see Snailbeach Lead Mine in “What to do” section.). The views are breath taking and there are many public footpaths. There are refreshments available at The Bog Centre (See places to visit). Directions: From Bishop’s Castle the most scenic drive is to go a short distance on the A488 towards Shrewsbury and turn right towards More. Turn left and immediately right at the junction with the A489 and continue along past the Inn on the Green. Turn left towards Cold Hill and left at the junction and right at the next junction. The car park is on the left at grid ref 97.8N, 37.OW on OS map. Walk up the rocky path to the outcrops (best views). Go back to Shelve and the main A488. MITCHELLS FOLD Ancient stone circle with good views towards the Welsh hills. The Stapeley Hills Historic Trails, 50p, also takes in the Holy Well and Hoarstone Stone Circle. Directions: From Bishop’s Castle take A488 towards Shrewsbury for about 11 miles and turn left at the sign post just past the red telephone box on the right hand side. There is a ruined mine shaft at the junction. Follow the English Heritage signs. Park in the car park and walk up through the gate. BROMLOW CALLOW This hill with its top-knot of trees is a landmark on the Bishop’s Castle to Shrewsbury road (A 488) and has strong associations with the Mary Webb heroine Hazel Woodhouse who lived at The Callow. There are many excellent walks in the area with renewed stiles, gates and sign posting and some of it enjoys “right to roam”. Walkers can use the Callow Inn car park and it is easy walking from Mitchells Fold and the Stapeley Hills. Directions: From Bishop’s Castle take the A 488 towards Shrewsbury for about 14 miles and turn left at the Shelve crossroads.

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BISHOPS CASTLE TOWN CENTRE MAP

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SHROPSHIRE HILLS MAP

BISHOP’S CASTLE

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SHROPSHIRE HILLS MAP

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CLUN TOWN CENTRE MAP

WHAT TO DO WALKING IN THE AREA Bishop’s Castle and Clun are excellent centres for exploring the unspoilt hill country of the area – most of it in the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Well way marked paths go through many of the hillside and valley villages of the Rivers Clun and Upper Onny, making walking straight from the towns and villages a real pleasure. Both towns are on Shropshire Way, a short distance from the Offa's Dyke Path, a national trail, and near the pre-bronze age Kerry Ridgeway. The Jack Mytton Bridleway goes through Clun and near to Bishop’s Castle. The Shuttle Buses and Bishop’s Castle Dial-a-Ride make it easy to choose these linear routes as day or half day walks. (see below for details). Bishop’s Castle and Clun are “Walkers are Welcome” towns, two of six in the Shropshire Hills, and a special effort is made to ensure public footpaths are in good order. “Walking for Pleasure” long and short walk leaflets are available from the Visitor Information Centre and downloadable. 20 BCTG where to eat 2015.qxd:Layout 1 15/5/15 14:26 Page 21

WHAT TO SEE & DO The Bishop’s Castle Ring, (five days of walking in the area www.bcring.co.uk) and the Bishop’s Castle Challenge Walk and Round & About Walk are challenges for seasoned walkers. Clun, a “Walkers are Welcome” town, It also has excellent walks straight from the town and “Clun Valley & borders, 33 favourite walks” is available for £5.95 locally from Caractacus on The Square, the Old Surgery Gallery and The Maltings Café on the High Street, Bright Flowers and Bridge Coffee Shop by the bridge. Or on-line from https://sites.google.com/site/clunwalkinggroup The following walks are downloadable: The Shropshire Way - Route 2 Bishop's Castle to Clun, Route 3 Clun to Craven Arms. Jack Mytton Way - Route 5 Plowden to Clun, Route 6 Clun to Llanfair Waterdine. There are also 3 Clun walks downloadable as pdfs from the walking section of www.bishopscastle.co.uk Other walks in the Shropshire Hills AONB area are in the “Walking with Offa” series - twelve way marked pub walks and four Days Out in the area, available as a £5 walks’ guide, free leaflets or downloadable from www.shropshirewalking.co.uk Bishop’s Castle & Clun are ideal centres for walking group holidays offering a variety of accommodation and places to eat. See the walking section of www.bishopscastle.co.uk for details. WALKING EVENTS & GROUPS The biggest walking event in the area is the Bishop’s Castle Walking Festival (www.walkingfestival.co.uk) 1 - 25 days of walking in May. Long and short guided walks with experienced guides to interpret the landscape. Bishop’s Castle Round & About Walk A circular 22 mile walk in May from Bishop’s Castle via Clun for Leukaemia research. Shorter 13 and 9 mile routes offered. email: http://leukaemialymphomaresearch.org.uk/event/local-events- walking/round-and-about-walk-2014 The Clun Valley Challenge Walk A 16 or 26 miles circular walk from Clun in May. E-mail: www.clunvalleychallenge.co.uk Bishop’s Castle Challenge Walk A 24 mile circular route to the west and north of Bishop’s Castle with 13 and 11 mile options. To raise money for the Town Hall renovation. www.bcchallengewalk.co.uk - e-mail:[email protected] Bishop’s Castle Russet Ramble A 12 mile sponsored walk in October. E-mail: [email protected]. Both towns have walking groups which visitors are welcome to join Bishop’s Castle Footpath Walking Group Organise weekly walks throughout the year from the Harley Jenkins St. car park at 9.30 a.m. Some quite strenuous all day walks of 9 - 15 miles (A), moderate all day walks of 8 - 10 miles (B) and gentler morning walks of up to 6 miles (C). a.m. Visitors are very welcome. Guided countryside walks available. Contact: the Tourist Information Office (01588) 630023 Clun walking Groups are: Clun Ramblers meet at the Memorial Hall car park. Visitors are welcome to join in. All-day walks of 10+ miles take place every Wednesday throughout the year with walks usually starting at 9.30 a.m. but times may vary between April & September See local press for details. Contact: Peter James (01588) 640027

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WHAT TO SEE & DO Clun Amblers/Shamblers meet on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays throughout the year starting at 10.00 a.m. for 3 - 5 miles walks. Contact: Wendy Lantos (01588) 640263 Clun Peramblers meet every Wednesday at 10.00 a.m. for 7-8 mile walks. Contact: Jean Smith (01588) 640551. Details of all walks can be found at www.clun.org/walking. Sorry but no dogs on any of the Clun walks. For easier day-long parking in Clun, walkers should use the 70 space Clun Memorial Hall free car park, at GR: 302811, easing pressure on the essentially short stay Clun Bridge car park. Bishop’s Castle and Clun Parish Paths Partnerships, whose volunteers look after the paths, extend a warm welcome to all walkers. TRANSPORT Bishop’s Castle Dial-a-Ride buses and volunteer car scheme can be used to help people walk the excellent linear walks in the area: The Southern Shropshire Way, recently upgraded, Offa’s Dyke Long Distance Footpath and the ancient pre Bronze Age Kerry Ridgeway. Contact: Adrian Varcoe (01588) 638350 giving at least 24 hours notice. Dogs by arrangement but bus passes cannot be used. Shropshire Hills Shuttle Bus “Castle Connect” linking Clun & Bishop’s Castle with Knighton and Ludlow will run every Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday twice a day from April 19 to October 4. The Long Mynd & Stiperstones Shuttle runs in a figure of 8 with the Bridges Inn at Ratlinghope at the centre. It links Church Stretton with Pontesbury and Minsterley on the Shrewsbury/Bishop’s Castle scheduled bus route. It runs from April 19 to September 28. Dogs by arrangement. Bishop’s Castle to Shrewsbury scheduled bus service gives walkers access to the Stiperstones and Mitchells Fold and Corndon uplands http://www.minsterleymotors.co.uk/html/bishops_castle__shrewsbury.html WALCOT WOOD – NATIONAL TRUST

The wood is a remnant of ancient pasture woodland, once part of a large Elizabethan deer park. It is dominated by unusually shaped 400 year old veteran oak trees which are home to rare lichens and beetles. The wood, which lies in a small valley below Bury Ditches Hill Fort and is protected from extreme weather and pollution, is now under active management after years of neglect. Bluebell, primrose, violet and sorrel carpet the wood in springtime and it is a haven for much wildlife. It is off the lane which runs between the villages of Brockton and Clunton and the Shropshire Way runs through it. As does the “Walking for Pleasure” around Clunton, Leaflet 5 walk which can be downloaded from www.bishopscastle.co.uk. Contact: The National Trust, Cardingmill Valley, Church Stretton, telephone (01694) 723068 SHROPSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST RESERVES Clunton Coppice, Rhos Fiddle, Lower Shortditch Turbary Lurkenhope. HILL FORTS Bury Ditches Bronze Age hill fort, Caer Caradoc, Chapel Lawn

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WHAT TO SEE & DO BISHOP’S CASTLE TOWN WALKS GUIDED TOURS OF BISHOP’S CASTLE The small, medieval town with a fascinating past of power and prestige out of all proportion to its size. The walking tours, which start at Lych Gate of St. John the Baptist Church and last about an hour are every Tuesday and Saturday at 6.30 p.m. from April to September. Charge £3.00 adults, children free. Adults in groups of 6 or more £1.50. For Group visits and Tours required at other times: please contact the Town Hall. 01588 630023 or email [email protected] Contact: (01588) 630271 THE TOWN TRAIL This gives a short history of the 12th Century planned town as illustrated by its streets and buildings and costs £2.00 from the Tourist Information Centre and other town premises. Starting from the Parish Church (originally 12th Century), the trail takes the visitor to The Castle Site at the top of the town before working its way back to the church. It is published by the local Civic Society and is downloadable from the website. PICNIC AREAS Bishop’s Castle - Within easy walking distance of the town centre, has two parks suitable for picnics. The town’s main playing fields lie off Union Street - as you walk along Church Street towards the parish church, turn right. The park is a well maintained large grass area with children’s play equipment and excellent views of the surrounding hills. The land adjacent to the site of the town’s ancient castle forms the second picnic site - it lies at the top end of town off Castle Green, above the Castle Hotel gardens. This small area offers magnificent views of the town and surrounding countryside and has benches and picnic tables. Part of the old castle walls can be seen. CLUN Clun Community Area has a children’s play area and the Castle ruins and river make an ideal picnic spot and riverside walk. The Ford and footbridge at Waterloo, 300 yards from Clun centre, is a small quiet picnic area where Waterloo Drive and Vicarage Road converge. HORSE RIDING & CYCLING WALCOT STABLES Lower Gardens, Lydbury North Shropshire SY7 8AS Stuart Murray (BHS AI) (01588) 680514 www.walcotstables.co.uk [email protected] Situated on the edge of the historic Walcot Hall, Walcot Stables is a small, friendly yard offering lessons for all ages and standards in safe and picturesque environment. Small group hacks can be arranged. We organise pony care days for children, children’s parties and competitions. Advanced tuition and overnight stabling for horses by arrangement. FOUR CYCLE RIDES This leaflet gives great information for cycling in the area. Four rides from 11-28 miles (18–45 km). - The Long Mynd Motivator, The Full Monty, The Clun Challenge and The Anchor Adventure - are detailed. Download from the website or available from the Information Office.

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WHAT TO SEE & DO SWIMMING & OTHER ACTIVITIES SPARC, BISHOP’S CASTLE’S SPORTS AND ARTS IN THE COMMUNITY 01588 630243 www.teme-leisure.co.uk The local Sports & Arts in the Community centre (Teme SpArC), which is a great facility for a small town and rural community, lies in the grounds of the Community College at the A488/B4385 junction. The centre includes a Swimming Pool, Sauna, Fitness Suite, Squash Courts, 3 Court Sports Hall & Studio/Theatre. The studio/theatre and a meeting room are available to hire. Fitness Classes including Fitness Pilates, Aerobics, Circuits, 3 in 1, Abs Blast, Aqua, Body Shock, Cardio & Swiss Ball Blast, Kettle Bells, Military Progression Training and Suspension Training. (See “Places to Visit” section for the SpArC Theatre) ONNY VALE TROUT AND COARSE FISHERY On A488 between Bishop’s Castle and Minsterley. The Fold, White Grit, Minsterley, Shropshire SY5 OJL D. & A. Gricmanis (01588) 650521 07792 609153. [email protected] www.onnyvalefishery.co.uk 3 trout fishing pools stocked with blues, browns and rainbows to 12lbs. 2 coarse fishing pools consisting of a pleasure pool and a carp specimen pool with carp to 28 lbs plus. There is a fishing lodge with flies for sale, refreshments, good toilet facilities, disabled access and a small caravan and camping site. The whole site is set below Corndon Hill in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Access is from the A 488 between Bishop’s Castle and Minsterley. Open all year. FISHING ON THE CLUN Day Tickets for fishing the river at Clun are available from the Post Office in the town. BISHOP’S CASTLE LAWN TENNIS CLUB (01588) 638467 The club has 3 all weather courts including one Astroturf on land below the town off the A488. Visitors are welcome provided that they wear tennis shoes not hard ridged trainers. Coaching available. Daily rate: £10 per court for a 2 hour session. Tennis balls for sale at 4 for £3 and tennis rackets can be borrowed (a small deposit required) BISHOP’S CASTLE CRICKET CLUB www.intheteam.com/bishopscastlecc [email protected] The club has one of the most beautiful pitches in the country, in the grounds of Lydham Manor about half a mile from the town centre. Spectators are very welcome and information about fixtures can easily be obtained from the website. BISHOP’S CASTLE BOWLS CLUB secretary Sarah Jenkins (01588) 673115 The unique, octagonal crown green is at the very heart of the old keep of Bishop’s Castle’s castle which fell into ruin in the late 16th century. The octagonal club house with its stone slate roof and the boundary wall were restored in 2008. The club extends a warm welcome to new members and visitors who want to play or watch a game on this unusual and ancient green. Open: April - September by appointment. CLUN COMMUNITY AREA Joan Kerry (01588) 640401 Outdoor ball court and badminton courts are available for hire by visitors. Tennis Court, Ball Court, Children’s Play Area, and BMX track are all at Clun Memorial Hall

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WHAT TO SEE & DO PLACES TO VISIT BISHOP’S CASTLE TOWN HALL [email protected] www.bishopscastletownhall.co.uk This imposing 18th Century Grade II* listed building stands at the top of the main street with magnificent views across the town and countryside beyond.. It has recently been transformed through a major renovation project, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and other grants, turning this historic building into a thriving community hub. Bishop’s Castle Town Hall Trust now manages the building offering a diverse year round programme of events and entertainment, art and exhibitions, heritage and visitor information, crafts and local products, weddings, parties and dances, markets and specialist sales. Activities link to key festivals and events throughout the year. For information on events and activities visit www.bishopscastletownhall.co.uk THE THREE TUNS BREWERY Salop St., Bishop’s Castle, Shropshire SY9 5BW (01588) 638392 [email protected] www.threetunsbrewery.co.uk The oldest brewery in the UK, part 17th century and part 19th century featuring a miniature Victorian tower brewhouse with a gravity process still in use producing fine, traditional beers. Tours by appointment - a maximum of 16 per tour and the brewery is unsuitable for people unable to cope with steep staircases. The brewery now has Brewery Taps at The Bridges, Ratlinghope, SY5 0ST and at The Sun Inn, Clun, SY7 8JB. (see “Where to Eat” and the “Where to Stay” sections) THE HOUSE ON CRUTCHES MUSEUM Opposite Town Hall. Office at Bishop's Castle Heritage Resource Centre Chapel Yard, High Street, Bishop's Castle SY9 5DE (01588) 630556 (may be answer phone) www.hocmuseum.org.uk Delightful museum illustrating the life of the town. Much of the collection has been donated or loaned by local inhabitants and paints a lively picture of life in a border town which has had a market since 1128. There are four display rooms in this unique early 16th century building and the stewards are all volunteers who enjoy sharing their enthusiasm with local residents and visitors from far and wide. Because of the nature of the building there is very limited access for visitors with mobility difficulties. The two ground floor rooms have steps into and between them. The two upper rooms are accessed by a staircase. Open: Easter to Michaelmas Fair -Sat & Sun 2.00p.m. - 5.00p.m. Also open on Bank Holidays or at any other time by arrangement. Additional morning openings over busy weekends, please visit www.hocmuseum.org.uk/news.asp for more information. Admission: free but donations welcome at this charity run museum. In 2015 @ £1.50 pp, guided tours offered on Thursdays 6 – 7.00 pm. MUST BE BOOKED through the Town Hall 10.00 – 4.00 Mon – Sat (01588) 630023 [email protected] BISHOPS CASTLE RAIL & TRANSPORT MUSEUM Alan Belcher (01588) 660708) or Peter Mills (01588) 640171 www.bchrc.co.uk *ground floor only. The museum, in School Lane off the High Street, shows the colourful history of the town’s railway which ran from Craven Arms and closed in 1935. It also shows examples of the local road transport during the same period. The museum is run by volunteer members of the Bishop’s Castle Railway Society. Open: Easter to end of October, Sat and Sun 2.00 p.m. to 5.00 p.m. and all bank holidays. Admission: free but donations welcome.

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WHAT TO SEE & DO BISHOP’S CASTLE HERITAGE RESOURCE CENTRE, Chapel Yard, High Street, Bishop’s Castle SY9 5DE (01588) 630556 [email protected] www.bchrc.co.uk Bishop’s Castle Heritage Resource Centre is a volunteer-run local heritage research centre and store celebrating local history and keeping it within the area for people to use and share. New volunteers are always welcome to join our team and help with taking in deposits, research, creating displays or helping visitors with enquiries A range of training is available. Open: The Local History Centre at BCHRC is open on Thursdays and Saturdays from 10.30 a.m. to 1.00 p.m.. Come and see our research material from Bishop’s Castle and surrounding Villages. Admission: No charge for use of resources, but donations are always welcome at this charity-run facility. A small charge is made for copies. THE CASTLE ARTISTS’ EXHIBITIONS Drusilla Cole (01588) 638458 [email protected] www.castleartists.co.uk Around 20 local artists come together two or three times a year in the spacious Public Hall to show “Affordable art”, which can include paintings, linocuts, watercolours, textiles, ceramics and cards. Castle Artists will hold their annual Christmas exhibition at the Public Hall, Bishop’s castle on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th November, open 10.00 a.m., to 5.00 p.m. each day, free entry and parking. Artists regularly give free workshops or demonstrations at exhibitions. In addition, the ladies of the Mainstone WI will run a Creative Café supplying tea and homemade cakes and savouries. At times we will be joined by local musicians 'BouZaTina' who play their folk- based acoustic music. In 2016 Castle Artists will again be joining in Bishop’s Castle Arts Festival with an exhibition at the Public Hall on 18-21st Feb, see www.bishopscastleartsfestival.co.uk for more info MUSIC AT THE VAULTS Mandy 07971 213728 or Wayne 07747 877011 Facebook: Crown & Anchor Vaults. Live bands perform every Thursday and Saturday evenings at The Crown & Anchor Vaults, High St., Bishop’s Castle with an open mic/jam session on the 1st Thursday hosted by a band. Amps, P.A. and drums are provided. April 31st - May 3rd (Bank Holiday) The Mojo Festival with many R & B bands and real ale and cider bar in the yard; July 10th & 11th Bishop’s Castle Real Ale Trail, live music, real ale and cider bar; July 30th – August 2nd The Gumbo Festival, a local and international blues and roots festival in the pub and the yard, September 19th Bishop’s Castle Michaelmas Fair, real ale and cider bar, live band at 9.00 p.m. Saturday night.

SPARC THEATRE, Bishop’s Castle www.sparctheatre.co.uk. A vibrant and varied programme, including National Theatre Live and other live screenings, theatre, music, films and exhibitions. SpArC Theatre has 142 seat auditorium and is fully accessible with on-site parking available. Book at tickets at SpArC or Enterprise House box offices (01588 630321 /638038) or online at www.sparctheatre.co.uk. To join the theatre mailing list or for any other enquiries via email, contact [email protected]. (see “What to Do” section for the SpArC Leisure Centre)

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WHAT TO SEE & DO BISHOP’S CASTLE FILM SOCIETY Jeff Hill 01588 630778 www.bishopscastlefilmsociety.co.uk The society shows selected films fortnightly on Wednesday evenings at The Three Tuns Inn from late September to mid April. Drinks and meals are available at the inn prior to the show. Visitors are welcome. Admission: Wednesday evenings at 8.00 p.m. Admission: guests £5.00 students £2.50. Programmes available from Bishop’s Castle Visitor Information Centre at the Town Hall. THE COMMUNITY COLLEGE, Bishop’s Castle (01588) 638257 [email protected] www.communitycollegebc.org.uk The Community College has become a vibrant and successful 11-16 school which consistently puts high quality teaching and learning at the heart of what it does. A strong Parent Teacher Association with various activities and events throughout the year. Close links to SpArC with its educational, cultural and sporting activities and links with the local community. An Eco-Building for use by both students and the community. BISHOP’S CASTLE LIBRARY (01588) 638215 The library has premises at Enterprise House in Station Street. It has a good local reference section with books and maps, and visitors’ tickets are also available for fiction and non-fiction books. DVDs and audiobooks are also offered. The Library is open on Mondays 10.00 a.m. - 2.00 p.m., Tuesdays and Fridays 10.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m. 2.00 p.m - 7.00 p.m. and Saturdays 9.30 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. A mobile library serves the villages. .WALCOT HALL & ARBORETUM Lydbury North, Shropshire SY7 8AZ e-mail: [email protected] www.walcothall.com The Hall is the historic home of Lord Clive of India. It is only open to the public on Sun and Mon May 24th & 25th ( late May Bank Holiday) when teas are served in the ballroom. The gardens and arboretum are also open under the National Gardens Scheme. The Arboretum is open from April to October - 12 noon - 4.00 p.m. every day but Saturday. KERRY VALE VINEYARD ground floor only Pentrehyling, nr. Churchstoke, Shropshire SY15 6HU – only 6 miles from Bishop’s Castle. June & Geoff Ferguson (01588) 620627 www.kerryvalevineyard.co.uk [email protected] Vineyard tours and wine tasting, hot & cold beverages, light lunches, homemade cakes for sale in our cellar door wine café. Delicious afternoon teas with sparkling wine also available (pre booking essential). Groups welcome. Bespoke packages available. Vouchers on sale for gifts. Our award winning wine for sale. Open Tuesdays – Sundays. Credit cards accepted. Disables access to ground floor only, disabled toilet available and disabled parking.

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WHAT TO SEE & DO THE BOG VISITOR CENTRE, Stiperstones (01743) 792747 [email protected] www. bogcentre.co.uk A former Victorian village school serving the local mining community, the centre and the neighbouring Bog mine are 1300ft. up at the foot of the Stiperstones National Nature Reserve and at the heart of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is open as a visitor centre with information, toilets, home-made refreshments, locally made crafts for sale, disabled access, facilities and parking. Dogs welcome (on a lead). Visitors welcome to eat their packed lunches on the premises. The centre is a Shuttle Bus stop and is run by an independentvolunteer group who have extensive local knowledge. Open: Saturday, April 4 to Sunday, November 1, 7 days a week 10.00a.m. to 5.00 p.m. every day except Monday when we open at 12.00 noon. If groups of 12+ are visiting and will require refreshments, please advise us. Bog Centre Christmas Fair 7th / 8th Nov. SNAILBEACH LEAD MINE Mike Moore (01952) 405105 to book site and/or underground tours. Andy Wood (01588) 630090 for general information or www.snailbeachmine.org.uk www.shropshiremines.org.uk for the Shropshire Mines Trust Always check the Shropshire Mines Trust Facebook page or Twitter @shropshiremines prior to visiting to confirm that the site is staffed. Amongst the wooded slopes and moorland above the Snailbeach valley are the relics of a once thriving lead mining industry. The South West Shropshire orefields were originally worked in Roman times and became the most productive in Europe. Mining finally ceased in the 1950s and the site is now a scheduled ancient monument with 20 fine buildings, the best set of preserved lead mine buildings in the UK. It is staffed by volunteers on Easter Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday, the late May Bank Holiday Sunday, then Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays from June to October. When open, the Visitor Centre, entry free, has an audio visual presentation of the mine’s history. You can walk round the site with a self-led trail leaflet and see the Locomotive Shed and the Blacksmith’s Shop. With an experienced guide, visitors can go underground into Day Level, charges £2 adult and £1 child. Helmets and lights are provided and warm clothes and suitable footwear recommended. The village of Snailbeach is 2 miles south of Minsterley off the A488 road from Shrewsbury to Bishops Castle. Park at the Village Hall car park where there are public toilets. The Shropshire Hills Shuttle Buses (Stiperstones Route) stop at Snailbeach village and it is a short stroll up to the mine site. Guided tours of the site and/or underground workings may be booked in advance any time between Easter and October. The village of Snailbeach is 2 miles south of Minsterley off the A488 road from Shrewsbury to Bishops Castle. Park at the Village Hall car park where there are public toilets. The Shropshire Hills Shuttle Buses (Stiperstones Route) stop at Snailbeach village and it is a short stroll up to the mine site. CLUN CLUN CASTLE Built in stone in 1195 on the site of an original motte and bailey. Now a ruin and under the care of English Heritage. CLUN MUSEUM The museum is on two floors of the Town Hall in the Square, an ancient monument, and once including local flints, Civil War helmets and Clun chairs. It achieved Museums, Libraries & Archives Council Accreditation in 2011. Open: Tuesday & Saturday 2.00 - 5.00 p.m. and Bank Holidays. TRINITY HOSPITAL, CLUN A group of almshouses built in 1614 by the Earl of Northampton. The gardens and grounds only are open to the public.

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WHAT TO SEE & DO BISHOP’S CASTLE, CLUN & SURROUNDING AREAS FESTIVALS 2015 BISHOP’S CASTLE TOWN HALL WALKING FESTIVAL May 1 – 25 Three weeks of walking in the Shropshire Hills with 3 guided walks each day of various lengths and encompassing the Round & About Walk and the Clun Valley Challenge Walk (see entries below). All walks will start and finish at the Town Hall. A variety of entertainment on offer during the festival including the MOJO Festival, Bishop’s Castle Music Day for Amnesty and the Clun Green man Festival. www.walkingfestival.co.uk MOJO FESTIVAL April 31 – May 3 (1st May Bank Holiday) At the Crown & Anchor Vaults, Bishop’s Castle. Bands Thursday & Friday evenings, Sat & Sun from 2.00 p.m. Local real ales, trad ciders, and food on sale all weekend at the pub and covered yard. A 30p charge will be added to all drinks while bands are on. Mandy 07971 213728 or Wayne 07747 877011 GREEN MAN DAY, CLUN May 2 – 4 (1st May Bank Holiday) The Green Man and Frosty the Snow Queen battle over the coming of spring to Clun. With market stalls and entertainment in the Square and on the Castle Grounds. [email protected] www.clungreenman.org.uk BISHOP’S CASTLE MAY FAIR May 9 & 10 All the fun of the fair as the travelling funfair comes to town. Carol Wynne 07860 858062 BISHOP’S CASTLE ROUND & ABOUT WALK May 9 A 22 mile circular charity walk through beautiful countryside starting from Bishop’s Castle using mainly public footpaths. There are shorter options of 13 and 9 miles. It is raising money to help beat blood cancer. http://leukaemialymphomaresearch.org.uk/event/local- eventswalking/round-and-about-walk-2015 THE 13TH CLUN VALLEY CHALLENGE WALK May 16 16 or 26 miles starting from Clun Memorial Hall with 4,300 ft. of ascent. Entry £14 includes certificate, badge and gourmet refreshments. No dogs and no entries on the day. (01588) 640190 [email protected] www.clunvalleychallenge.co.uk WALCOT HALL OPEN DAY May 24 & 25 (2nd May Bank Holiday) Walcot Hall, Lydbury North. The gardens and arboretum of this former home of Clive of India are open for charity under the Yellow Book scheme from 1.30p.m. to 5.30 p.m. both days. (01588) 680570 [email protected] www.walcothall.com ARBOR DAY & CEILIDH AT ASTON-ON-CLUN May 31 Parade from the village hall at 1.15p.m. to the famous black poplar tree for the 2.00 p.m. ceremony, Morris Dancing, singing and readings, followed by children’s entertainment on the green. An evening ceilidh will be led by Mostly John. Roger Rankin (01588) 660473 [email protected] www.arbortreeday.co.uk 29 BCTG where to eat 2015.qxd:Layout 1 15/5/15 14:26 Page 30

WHAT TO SEE & DO WALCOT HALL OPERA, ‘THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO’ June 4 & 5 The annual professional opera staged at the hall. 01588 680570 [email protected] www.walcothall.com BISHOP’S CASTLE MAYOR’S PARADE June 7 A celebratory parade for the newly elected Mayor of Bishop’s Castle. The Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Town Clerk in full regalia with pike and mace bearers parade from The Town Hall to the Parish Church for a service followed by a communal picnic and children’s games at the Playing Fields. (01588) 638141 www.bishopscastle.co.uk/towncouncil BISHOP’S CASTLE OPEN GARDENS June 14 Eight guided walks a day to suit all abilities from 3 miles to 16 miles with evening fringe events. Lissi Swales (01588) 638531 [email protected] BISHOP’S CASTLE MIDSUMMER REJOICING June 20 & 21 Fete on the Saturday and Rush Cart parade with Morris Teams on the Sunday morning followed by service at St. John’s Parish Church and then Morris dancing in the Three Tuns Yard.. (01588) 630324 www.bishopscastle.co.uk CLUN GARDENS OPEN June 20 & 21 Many gardens in the village and surrounding area open to the public. Heather Morris (01588) 640217 THE TOUR D’ARTS ALIVE AT CLUN June 28 Clun will host the inaugural Tour d’Arts Alive, combining a cycling sportive with a day of bike themed family fun. It is a partnership between the charities Arts Alive and Flicks in the Sticks, and professional bike tour company Rideventures. Based at Clun Memorial Hall, the cyclists who like a challenge will set off for the ‘The Clun 100’ or the ‘The Clun 50’, a shorter route with less climbing. Entry fee £20 per cyclist www.britishcycling.org.uk/events/details/123915/The-Clun-Sportive www.artsalive.co.uk BISHOP’S CASTLE STONE SKIMMING CHAMPIONSHIP June 28 At Walcot Hall, Lydbury North lakes from 12.00 noon to 5.00 p.m. Take part in the various stone related events or just watch the fun. Bring a picnic. Heather Ashton (01588) 638818 [email protected] www.stoneskimming.org.uk BISHOP’S CASTLE TANDEM TRIATHLON July 4 Teams of 2 with tandems swim, cycle and run starting from The Community College and SpArC grounds Bishop’s Castle. www.tandemtriathlon.org.uk NEWCASTLE-ON-CLUN GARDENS OPEN July 4 Gardens in the village open to raise money for the Gardens Society and another charity. [email protected]

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BISHOP’S CASTLE CARNIVAL July 5 Traditional country town carnival with a parade of floats around the town followed by fun and games on the playing fields. Martin Walter [email protected] BISHOP’S CASTLE REAL ALE TRAIL July 10 & 11 Based in and around the town’s six pubs, most of the breweries in Shropshire and the borders are represented as well as a great selection from the rest of the UK. There are usually more than 60 ales and ciders on offer at any one time. Mandy 07971 213728 or Wayne 07747 877011 BISHOP’S CASTLE PARTY IN THE PARK July 18 Music event organised by the local ‘About Music Project’ committee. Continuous music on two stages from 12.00 noon to 10.00 p.m. featuring a variety of local and guest bands. This is a relaxed family event, bring a deck chair and enjoy the music. (01588) 630092 or (01588) 638664 THE GUMBO FESTIVAL July 22 to 25 (Ticket Only) At the Crown & Anchor Vaults, Bishop’s Castle A weekend of top international blues & roots bands. Local real ales, trad ciders, and food on sale all weekend at the pub and covered yard. A 30p charge will be added to all drinks while bands are on. Mandy 07971 213728 or Wayne 07747 877011 CLUN CARNIVAL July 25 – August 2 Several events, starting with an Art & Craft Exhibition in the Hightown Community Room on 26 July (closes 3 August). On Show Day, 2 August, a procession of carnival floats tour the town at 1.00 p.m. followed by Queen in The Square. From 2 pm there will be a large horticultural and homecraft show on the Castle Meadow, together a tea tent, bar, stalls and entertainments (01588) 640629 FARMER PHIL’S FESTIVAL, RATLINGHOPE August 14 - 16 Rock festival in the hills! Weekend tickets available. Phil Harding of Near Gatten Farm (01588) 650459 www.farmerphilsfestival.co.uk BISHOP’S CASTLE CHALLENGE WALK August 15 A 24 mile walk with 4,000ft. of ascent through stunning landscape to the north of the town with a 11 & 13 mile options on parts of the route. The walk starts and finished at the Town Hall and this year will be a fund raiser for the hall. More details and entry forms at www.bcchallengewalk.co.uk. Contact Jane Carroll (01588) 638467 [email protected] PURSLOW SHOW August 25 (Bank Holiday Monday) A small country show at Purslow Farm just past the Hundred House with something for everyone from 1.30 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. A horticultural marquee with flowers and vegetables, a gymkhana, do show, beer tent and entertainment. (01588) 660141

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NEWCASTLE VILLAGE SHOW September 5 The show is held on the Millennium Green and in community centre in the village from 12.30pm -5.00 p.m. and includes a traditional garden and produce show, craft and produce stalls, children's activities, tug of war, bar, hot food, live band, cream teas and family fun dog show! [email protected] NATIONAL HERITAGE OPEN DAY IN BISHOP’S CASTLE September 12 Local venues open to the public by Bishop's Castle Civic Society & Heritage Resource Centre for those interested in history and heritage. Sunday afternoon between 2p.m. and 5p.m Gaynor Pinches 01588 638806 www.heritageopendays.org.uk MICHAELMAS FAIR September 19 A celebration of traditional country skills and crafts. This year’s fair will feature opera with Trovatori, mime from Kaleidoscope Theatre as well as processions, stalls, great music and street performers. Evening lantern procession followed by the Samba Band.. www.michaelmasfair.co.uk Sunday September 20 The Town will be celebrating 250 years of the Town Hall in a series of activities with an 18th century flavour. In the Town Hall there will be family activities: country dancing, with live music; story-telling or games and refreshments. In the garden of the Castle Hotel: more live music and refreshments and at the Bishop’s Castle Bowling Club: demonstration bowling and the opportunity to try it out yourself. 18th century costume optional! www.michaelmasfair.co.uk CLUN VALLEY BEER FESTIVAL October 2 -4 All the pubs along the beautiful Clun valley join in this event. Transport is provided between pubs. The Castle Connect Shuttle Bus is running between Bishop’s Castle, Clun and Ludlow. Jack Limond at The White Horse, Clun (01588) 640305 [email protected] www.cvbf.co.uk RUSSET RAMBLE October 10 12 mile sponsored walk around the local footpaths in aid of Bishop’s Castle Bowling Club. Tony Graham (01588) 638818 [email protected] BISHOP’S CASTLE REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY November 8 The Town Band leads the Royal British Legion, uniformed organisations and the Town Council from the Town Hall to the parish church for the 11 o’clock ceremony at the War Memorial in the churchyard followed by a church service. (01588) 620541 BISHOP’S CASTLE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS FESTIVAL December 5 Music, late night shopping and parades along with the lights switching on ceremony. Mandy Green 07971 213728 www.bcchristmaslights.co.uk CRAFT SHOW AT ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH, BISHOP’S CASTLE December 5 In conjunction with the Christmas Light Festival the church opens its doors to crafts from the area. (01588) 638269

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CLUN CHRISTMAS LIGHTS December 6 From 7.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. Lights switch on in Clun from 7.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. [email protected] www.clungreenman.org.uk 2016 BISHOP’S CASTLE ARTS FESTIVAL February 17 - 21 Bishop’s Castle’s arts festival with music, literature and art at venues throughout the town. Workshops, talks and exhibitions. (01588) 630200 [email protected] THE VILLAGES LYDBURY NORTH, BROCTON, EDGTON & PLOWDEN. www.lydburynorth.net NORBURY, WENTNOR & MYNDTOWN Lydbury North, just three miles from Bishop’s Castle, was an important Saxon Manor pre dating Bishop’s Castle and has a fine Norman church and a community shop run entirely by volunteers. It has a pub, a camping & caravanning site, B&Bs and self catering accommodation, a primary school and a new village hall. In the village is Walcot Hall, a Georgian gem and a famous wedding venue with an arboretum and fishing lakes. www.lydburynorth.net Brocton is a hamlet to the east of Lydbury with a ford over the River Kemp. Edgton is to the east of Lydbury on the Shropshire Way while the hamlet of Plowden, with the only Catholic church in the area, is where the minor road joins the A 489 in the Onny Valley at the southern end of the Long Mynd Norbury is an upland village lying in a loop off the Bishop’s Castle to Pulverbatch road. It nestles under the Norbury hills which offer good walking. It is largely a stone built village with stone walls bordering farms, attractive houses and cottages. The village road bends in nearly a circle round the church which has an unusual painted ceiling and a Norman tower topped with a broach spire. The massive yew tree in the churchyard if one of the largest in Britain and attracts many visitors. Wentnor is further along the “main” road to Pulverbatch on the lower slopes of the Long Mynd just above the River East Onny valley which separates the Stiperstones and Mynd upland ridges. It has pubs, shops and a camp site. Myndtown & Asterton are hamlets at the base of the steep escarpment of the Long Mynd.

LYDHAM, MORE, LINLEY & SNEAD These hamlets to the north east of Bishop’s Castle lie in the undulating land of the Camlad and West Onny Valleys. The Shropshire Way goes through Lydham, More and Linley where there are views of the private Linley Hall, built in 1742. Linley Beeches thought to be planted c.1730 are a landmark on Shropshire Way. The Church and churchyard at Lydham are next to Norman motte and bailey and former Mill, mentioned in Domesday 'paying one pig' in taxes. The Lydham Manor Oak is one of one of England's largest trees (girth 39ft/12 metres). At Lydham Heath there is the site of the station at the end of the old Bishop's Castle Railway. More is a tiny village with ancient farms and cottages. There is evidence of Roman building associated with lead-mining in this area, an extensive motte and bailey castle on the Way and an ancient church on circular site. Snead has an Isolated tiny church (across field) beside the River Camlad – the only river flowing from England into Wales.

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WHAT TO SEE & DO RATLINGHOPE & PULVERBATCH. Are all in the valley of the Darnford Brook and River East Onny on the lower slopes of the Long Mynd surrounded by wild upland. Ratlinghope has always been a resting place and a refuge for travellers in the Shropshire Hills and has been inhabited since before history. There is a history of lead mining in Pulverbatch. SHELVE, THE BOG, PENNERLEY, STIPERSTONES & SNAILBEACH. These hamlets and villages of the Stiperstones Ridge have a long history of mining for lead and other minerals which all finished in the 1950s. The former school is now The Bog visitor centre. PRIEST WESTON & HYSSINGTON Hyssington to the north west of Bishop’s Castle is over the border in Wales on the lower slopes of Corndon Hill. Priest Weston, an attractive village with a pub on the far side of Corndon, is in Shropshire! Mitchell’s Fold Stone Circle is nearby on Stapeley Hill. More about the villages in this area can be found in a local book: “The Upper Onny Valley” published 2005. CHURCHSTOKE, MELLINGTON & PENTREHYLING Churshstoke is a Welsh village on the main A489 to Newtown with a church and pubs and a large supermarket on the Bishop’s Castle side. The nearby hamlets of Mellington (in Wales) and Penreheyling (in Shropshire) are in the valley of the River Caebitra. The Offa’s Dyke Path passes through Mellington and there is cross roads pub. KEMPTON, LITTLE BRAMPTON & PURSLOW These hamlets south of Bishop’s Castle are in the valley of the Rivers Kemp & Clun with the landmark of Clunbury Hill. CLUNTON & CLUNBURY, ASTON-ON-CLUN AND CLUNGUNFORD These are all attractive villages/hamlets in the valley of the River Clun as it flows downstream towards the River Teme and Ludlow. They vary is size and facilities. ASTON-ON-CLUN has a community shop in the grounds of Village Hall. Open from 8.00am to 6.00pm every day except Sun, 9.00am to 12.00pm, The shop stocks a wide range of locally produced food, newspapers, fresh vegetables & fruit, dairy produce etc. There is a sitting out area, where tea, coffee& ice creams can be enjoyed. Tel 01588 660849. NEWCASTLE-ON-CLUN, BETTWS Y CRWYN & ANCHOR Newcastle is the first village west of Clun up the valley and has a pub and campsite. It is near the Offa’s Dyke river crossing. Bettws y Crwyn, which despite its name is in Shropshire, is just south of the River. Anchor is a hamlet even further up the Clun valley. These are all in the Clun Forest upland. MAINSTONE A village of scattered houses in the deep Clun Forest valleys of the River Unk and Cwm Ffrydd. The Offa’s Dyke Path passes near to its church and it has a WI Hall. NEARBY TOWNS CRAVEN ARMS A market town 10 miles to the east at a junction of the busy A49 Shrewsbury to Ludlow road, Craven Arms has the nearest railway station to Bishop’s Castle and the nearby Stokesay Castle is the best example of the fortified manor house in the country. Nearby is the Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre and in the town Land of Lost Content, the national museum of popular culture. www.growcooklearn.co.uk .co.uk www.shropshirehillsartsweek.co.uk

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WHAT TO SEE & DO CHURCH STRETTON Church Stretton is an historic Market Town situated in the heart of the South Shropshire hills on the English/Welsh border known as The Marches. It is the only town in the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the first Walkers are Welcome town in the Midlands and a Fairtrade town. The area is renowned worldwide for its geology, with some of the oldest rock formations in existence. Church Stretton and its picturesque surrounding villages forms an excellent base for the country lover and sportsman alike at all times of the year whether hikers, horse riders, mountain bikers, or naturalists . The Long Mynd rising above the west of the town is renowned for gliding, hang gliding and paragliding, and boasts the second highest golf course in England. The beautiful countryside, with its wild uplands and breathtaking views, features prominently in the books of Mary Webb, A E Housman, and Malcolm Saville. www.churchstretton.co.uk CHIRBURY The seat of Lord Herbert of Chirbury, now the Earl of Powis, is a small, border village where many of the houses are timber framed with red brick facades. It is two miles from Offa’s Dyke on the Montgomery road and within easy reach of Mitchells’s Fold Stone Circle above Priest Weston (see Beauty Spots). The School House is a typical black and white timber framed building with a Victorian wing. It was founded by local vicar Edward Lewis in 1675 and is still in use. There was once an ancient priory and the church, which has two rows of leaning pillars inside, retains many of its building materials. The Herbert Arms serves good food and there is a local Post Office, shop and tourist information point which stocks a local leaflet. Open Mon - Fri 7.30 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. Sat 7.30 a.m. – 5.30 p.m. and Sun 9.00 a.m. - 12.00 noon. MONTGOMERY The county town of Montgomeryshire - now part of Powys. It is now a small country town with a very impressive ruined castle and a range of shops and services. It is not far from the Shropshire Way. www.montgomery-powys.co.uk LUDLOW Ludlow, which lies 20 miles to the south east, became a major trading centre in the 13th century and prospered through wool, cloth and manufacturing. The original grid pattern of the medieval streets still remains a feature today and is encircled by the remains of a fine town wall. The current of the Teme was tamed by the construction of four impressive weirs to give water power to drive the mills. Much restoration work has been done and there is no a riverside walk. The Norman castle, owned since 1811 by the Earls of Powis, overlooks the town and its shopping centre. The town is particularly well known for its food and in recent years its 18th century reputation as a fashionable social centre has been restored. There are many independent shops, frequent markets and a succession of festivals. www.theludlowguide.co.uk www.ludlow.gov.uk SHREWSBURY The county town, 22 miles to the north, is almost surrounded by the River Severn and boasts both quaint shops and alleyways as well as modern shopping malls. It has a castle and museums, several fine churches and an 11th century Abbey. The ruins of the Roman city of Viriconium lie 5 miles away. www.visitshrewsbury.com. On the other side of the border, the old Welsh market towns of Welshpool and Newtown are just 16 miles away. The ancient Kerry Ridgeway provides the scenic route from Bishop’s Castle to Newtown, in the valley of the river Severn. It is the birthplace of the 19th century socialist reformer Robert Owen and, this century, has been considerably developed. It is also on the main route to the coast from the Bishop’s Castle area. Welshpool, on the Montgomery Canal, was an important centre for the wool trade and now has the biggest livestock market in mid-Wales and it is also the home of the Welshpool to Llanfair Light Railway and the Montgomery canal Museum. Powis Castle, a major National Trust property, with magnificent gardens, is near the town centre. Edinburgh Woollen Mills has taken over the Old Station. www.welshpool.org www.newtown.org.uk

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Both towns offer free car parking on streets and in car parks and have no round-abouts, traffic lights or major one-way systems! For more information about where to stay, the towns, walks, local crafts, markets and farmer’s markets and nearby centres of interest contact: The Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle, Shropshire, SY9 5BG 01588 630023 email: [email protected] www.bishopscastle.co.uk Bus Services: There is a service (552, 553) between Bishop’s Castle and Shrewsbury every day except Sunday. http://www.minsterleymotors.co.uk/html/bishops_castle__shrewsbury.html. This can be used to access the Shropshire Hills Shuttle Buses (see below). Shropshire Hills Shuttle Buses: run every weekend and bank holiday from April 19 to September 28 (Castle Connect to October 4 to include the Clun Valley beer Festival weekend. “Castle Connect” links Clun & Bishop’s Castle with Knighton and Ludlow will run every Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday twice a day. Shuttle buses will continue to provide easy access to the Long Mynd and Stiperstones hill ranges. www.shropshirehillsshuttles.co.uk or pick up leaflets at Visitor Information offices. Bishop’s Castle Dial-a-Ride buses and volunteer car scheme can be used to get out and about in the area when public transport is not available. This community service runs 2 buses – a six seater and a 13 seater – both with disabled access. Contact: Adrian Varcoe (01588) 638350 giving at least 24 hours’ notice. Dogs by arrangement but bus passes cannot be used. Telephone 01588 638350. BCT - Bishop’s Castle Taxi Rus Gromov 07551 825931 / 07551 825932 ARMS CABS (Craven Arms) (01588) 672734 For other public transport contact the Traveline 0871 200 2233 www.travelinemidlands.co.uk or National Rail 08457 484950 www.nationalrail.co.uk The emblem on the front of this booklet is a facsimile of the seal King James 1st gave to the town in 1609, when he confirmed the rights and privileges given in the 1573 Elizabeth the 1st Great Charter. The seal is in the British Museum and Bishop’s Castle Town Council have the rights over its reproduction. Published by Bishop’s Castle & Clun Tourism Community Interest Company.

Front cover drawn by Katy Alston (01588) 672347 www.katy-alston.co.uk

Printed by Imprint, Newtown 01686 624137