Shropshire The Ultimate Annual County Guide Issue 18 - 2020

Shrewsbury Market Hall

Historic Buildings | Festivals Gardens | Museums | Tourist Attractions www.countysignpost.co.uk

CONTENTS

6

4 10

Page 2 Historic Buildings

Page 6 12 16 Gardens & Outdoors

Page 12 Festivals & Shows

Page 34 18 26 Attractions & Museums

Welcome to the 2020 edition of Shropshire Signpost, your indispensable guide to the best tourist attractions and days out the county has to offer.

We hope that you find our guide, a pleasure to read, both interesting and informative, and that you will take it away with you, to use again and again.

We offer a taster of the visitor attractions and

events within the County, for both locals and countysignpost.co.uk Cover image © Shrewsbury Market Hall Shrewsbury © image Market Cover

those who wish to visit from afar. All material in this magazine is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of printing. County Signpost Ltd does not accept any responsibility for errors Published by: County Signpost Ltd or inaccuracies which slipped through. Copyright County Signpost Ltd 2020. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without the Editor: Adam Davison written permission of the publisher. WHITTINGTON CASTLE

and Craft Fairs to Outdoor Theatre Productions – visit the website for a full list of events. Guides are available (if pre-booked) for groups of 8 people or more. The tours offer visitors the chance to see into some of the locked rooms and hear stories of the Castle’s fascinating history.

The castle is steeped in historical tales of bitter warfare, treachery, death, myths, legends and of course many ghosts and strange happenings. It is said that “The Holy Grail” was once hidden here as well as a cursed chest which is opened would bring death. The Castle is also connected to some very famous historic figures like Dick Whittington once Lord Mayor of London and Shropshire’s very own Robin Hood – Fulk FitzWarine III. The FitzWarine family acquired Whittington Castle and in the late 12th Century Fulk FitzWarine III was outlawed by King John.

The Castle is available for Civil Ceremonies, Knight and Princess Birthday Parties as well as A fairy tale Castle, ivy clad ruined walls, medieval Paranormal Investigations, Group tours and moat and a twin towered gatehouse entrance are School groups. The Castle has a Membership the iconic features of Whittington Castle near scheme and welcomes new members and those Oswestry in Shropshire. This Castle which was who wish to help at the Castle as volunteers. The the first community run Castle in the country, Castle is now completely self-funded. was re launched in 2007 after a huge restoration project and it has been drawing visitors from far Tel 01691 662500 and wide since. [email protected]

www.whittingtoncastle.co.uk The Castle makes the ideal group outing it has a tearoom serving sandwiches, cakes and Castle Grounds open All Year refreshments and the specialty The Castle Cream

Tea. The Castle has a well-stocked second hand Free Entrance bookshop area and sells souvenirs and gifts. A bridge gives access to the inner bailey area and £1 to park via Pay and Display machine tower and the moat has been extended and the pavilion replaced to give view of the landscape Tearoom/gift shop and second hand book which was once a medieval garden. Disabled shop open all year toilets are available. Throughout the year there Wednesday to Sunday 10-4pm are many events from Historic Medieval Re- (open Bank Holiday Mondays) enactments, Living History days as well as Plant

2 countysignpost.co.uk Events for 2020

March 28th - 29th American Civil War Living History Weekend

April 10th Planthunters Fair

April 12th - 13th Easter Egg Trail

May 2nd - 3rd Napoleonic Re-enactment & Living History Weekend

May 24th The Festival Players Outdoor Shakespeare present Henry V

June 20th - 21st Green Fair Weekend.

July 4th - 5th Shropshire Outdoor Show

July 25th - 26th Multi Living History Weekend & Craft Fair

August 15th - 16th Lace Wars 18th century Jacobian Living History Weekend

October 24th - 30th October Ghost Tours

3 CHILLINGTON HALL

Chillington Hall is a hidden gem on the Chillington Hall offers guided tours of this Staffordshire/Shropshire borders between the magnificent house and our knowledgeable villages of Brewood and Codsall. The guides will give you an in-depth history of this enchanting 18th century Georgian house, is a family home, its ancestors and contents. product of two differing Georgian styles. The South side built in 1724 by Francis Smith of The Hall is also available for private group tours Warwick, has rooms of an intimate size and has been also been used for birthday contrasted with those built on a far grander scale celebrations, charity events and classical music by Sir John Soane some sixty years later. The concerts. Although Chillington Hall is a grand Saloon, typical of Soane design, features a house it retains an intimate charm which makes soaring ceiling topped by a great lantern with it an ideal setting for entertaining. beautiful plasterwork incorporating the family coat of arms and motto.

The parkland, landscaped by Capability Brown, incorporates the magnificent lake and its architectural follies. It is accessed from a drive which runs alongside a manmade canal designed to give the impression of walking along a river bank.

A short walk from the Hall, through the arboretum, you will find the Chillington Model Farm. Its octagonal dovecote forms the Telephone 01902 850236 centrepiece of an 18th century service courtyard www.chillingtonhall.co.uk WV8 1RE including stables, barns, pig sties and acorn roasting house.

4 countysignpost.co.uk ATTINGAM PARK

Make the most of your visit to the National for visitors to the explore the estate, enjoy the Trust’s Attingham Park, on the outskirts of outdoors, and connecting with nature. Shrewsbury in Shropshire. Whether it’s the 200 acres of parkland and woods you’ve heard For opening times, prices and more information about, the atmospheric mansion house built in visit: 1785, the beautiful and bountiful walled kitchen www.nationaltrust.org.uk/attingham-park garden and orchard, or the large play field, there's plenty to explore and fill your day with. Full of life and locally loved, there’s so much to see and do at Attingham, so make a day of it and explore all there is to offer.

Admission to Attingham is free for National Trust members and under 5s, admission charges apply for non-members of the National Trust.

During 2020, under the title of ‘Love & Neglect’, discover more about the stories of changing fortunes, revival and rediscovery, and an estate where people can experience the benefits of being in the great outdoors in a place where nature and wildlife thrive. A variety of activities and events are held as part of the seasonal event programme, and during 2020 highlights include outdoor theatre productions, the Summer Nights Film Festival, a family camp, and activities focusing on providing opportunities

Images © National Trust/Sarah Cunningham 5 OSWESTRY Oswestry Award Winning Markets - Open every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday

Markets in Oswestry date back some 800 years and remain one of the town’s biggest attractions, drawing visitors from far and wide..

The Indoor Market is open each Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and Outdoor Markets are held every Wednesday and Saturday. The market has now been extended into the street which has had a really positive effect on both the market and the town ! The local Artisan Market is also held on the last Friday of each month. Oswestry Markets received a great accolade in being awarded the Best Local Council Market for 2013 by the National Association of British Market Authorities. This acknowledged the huge investment that the Council has made in the Indoor Market in terms of facilities and promotion.

6 countysignpost.co.uk Oswestry was also category winners in the 2017 Heart Of England competition and are included in the national Britain in Bloom event for 2018.

Go to www.oswestry-tc.gov.uk for further details on Oswestry’s markets. Whether you come for the weekly markets or to browse the interesting mix of small independent shops, a warm welcome is sure to make your visit quite special.

Balloon Carnival

St Oswalds Church

Cambrian Train

Discover the industrial heritage with a visit to the Cambrian Heritage Railway or own Museums. Or follow the Wilfred Owen Trail to find more about the famous war poet’s childhood in Oswestry. To really get to know Oswestry, make the Towns Tourist Information Centre the first stop on your day out. You will find it in the Oswestry Visitor and Exhibition Centre through the churchyard.

Go to www.oswestry-welshborders.org.uk or contact 01691 662753 for further details on our lovely town.

Signpost - page 7 GLANSEVERN HALL GARDENS

The Potting Shed Café and The licensed award winning Potting Shed Café, set in the spectacular courtyard, offers a seasonal Estate Shop menu inspired by our walled garden produce. Catering for meat eaters, veggies and vegans and The family owned historical Georgian II* Greek gluten free. Soups and artisan bread, green revival house is romantically positioned on the goddess bowls as well as Garden Quiches and banks of the River Severn. Discover 45 acres of home cooked pork pie ploughmans, with hot magical gardens and parkland, which include the specials on chilly days. The famous cream teas original walled garden with rooms, an 1840 and fabulous bakes are always available and the Grotto, a spectacular 30 foot wisteria fountain fireside is up for grabs on grey days. walk and a 5 acre lake. Easy strolling in shady woodland or the secluded bird hide on stilts over The brand new Estate Shop offers a selection of looking the river, there is a wide variety of quality plants, artisan goods, rugs, lamps, peaceful and beautiful areas to discover. chocolate and Monty’s beers. Galnsevern is also dog and family friendly. Many www.glansevern.co.uk WI and garden clubs are hosted by Glansevern [email protected] Hall and they can tailor private evening suppers, Facebook: day time visits and also have conference and glansevernhallgardenandpottingshedcafe meeting facilities. WHITTINGTON CASTLE The Ideal family Day out - Nr Oswestry

Tel 01691 662500 E-Mail [email protected] www.whittingtoncastle.co.uk Castle Grounds open All Year Free Entrance

An inspiration for all seasons

Waterfall, Glass house, plant sales, Gift shop and Tearoom. Groups welcome. [email protected] Tel 01630 647237 TF9 4EU 9 DOROTHY CLIVE GARDEN AN INSPIRATION FOR ALL SEASONS The peaceful and serene Dorothy Clive Garden record, document and tell the story of the was created in 1940 when Colonel Harry Clive garden for future generations. Since the National began his transformation of a disused Victorian Lottery was set up in 1994 over £4million has quarry for his wife Dorothy, who was suffering been raised to protect and celebrate Newcastle’s from Parkinson’s disease. The garden became heritage. From repairing historic places of the focus of Colonel Clive’s life and in 1958 he worship to commemorating the world wars and set up the Willoughbridge Garden Trust to from celebrating local traditions to opening up preserve Dorothy's memory. The charity has two historic gardens, National Lottery players have key purposes which are to maintain, enhance supported over 70 community projects across and further develop a garden inspired by the the borough. memory of the late Dorothy Clive to be used for the enjoyment of the public, and to promote and 2020 promises to be an exciting year at the support horticultural education, for the Dorothy Clive Garden., with some wonderful continuing benefit of both students and the events taking place including 2 Plant Hunters general public. These two charitable objects are Fair’s in April and August and the 9th Annual underpinned by an ongoing commitment to Chilli, Cheese and Chocolate Festival in environmental sustainability and ecological September. sensitivity. For all Garden news and events please see their Both intimate and informal, the 12 acre site website www.dorothyclivegarden.co.uk boasts a Royal Botanic Glasshouse, winter garden, edible woodland, spectacular woodland quarry with waterfall, dazzling azaleas and rhododendrons, thousands of spring bulbs, spectacular summer flower borders, a pool and alpine scree, a rose walk and zingy tropical borders. The garden also includes a south facing Hillside Garden, providing a wealth of seasonal interest. Plant enthusiasts will find many unusual species throughout the garden along with many specimens of trees and shrubs.

Delicious homemade scones, light lunches and a selection of sumptuous cakes are available in the garden tearoom. Plants and gifts are also Willoughbridge available to purchase in the gift room. Market Drayton

The Dorothy Clive Garden is celebrating again TF9 4EU having been awarded Silver in the Staffordshire Tel: 01630 647237 2019 Tourism Awards ‘Best small visitor attraction’ category. www.dorothyclivegarden.co.uk

The Garden was awarded a Heritage Lottery Fund grant in 2019 which is enabling them to

10 countysignpost.co.uk © Dave Walley Events for 2020

Easter- Educational Garden Trail : Craft activity 10th - 19th April, 10am-5pm for children in the outdoor classroom. (Children must be supervised at all times). Plant Hunters Fair - Browse the many stalls provided by top, specialist, award winning 12th & 13th April, 10am-5pm nurseries with thousands of plants to choose from. This is a special fundraising event. 8th May, VE Day Celebrations 10am-5.30pm

28th June 10am-5.30pm Dog Show

15th August, 6.30pm - Shakespeare’s ‘All’s well that ends well’ 9.45pm Plant Hunters Fair - Browse the many stalls 30th & 31st August, 10am - provided by top, specialist, award winning 5.30pm nurseries with thousands of plants to choose from. This is a special fundraising event. 20th September, 9th Annual Chilli, Cheese and Chocolate Festival 10am - 6.00pm – Special Fundraising Event

Further information on events at : PLEASE NOTE www.dorothyclivegarden.co.uk Shrewsbury Food Festival June 27th - 28th

The Shrewsbury Food Festival returns for its As always there will be something for the whole eighth year, with 200 exhibitors selling a vast family at the festival, with a dedicated kid’s zone, array of delicious food and drink products. under 5’s play area, craft activities and sports. There will be demonstrations, chef school, Children will be encouraged to engage with the street food, live music and lots of children’s journey of food and learn about our wonderful, activities. Approximately 30,000 people attended local food producers along the way. the festival last year. Shrewsbury Food Festival will be held on the For the third year running the festival was 27th and 28th June at Shrewsbury Quarry and named the ‘Best Food Festival in the Midlands’ around the town centre. Tickets can be at the What’s On Readers’ Awards 2019. purchased from shrewsburyfoodfestival.co.uk

Shropshire Festivals founder, Beth Heath, comments, “Shrewsbury Food Festival is a day for everyone - young or old, foodie or just fond of food. The food festival evolves every year and we hope everyone joins us for a fantastic weekend of food and fun this June.”

12 countysignpost.co.uk

Cosford Food Festival

July 18th - 19th craft. Hosted by experts from the Gin Jamboree Gin school, they will talk you through everything Fine food and flying achines!If you need to know about gin! There will be four Gin Flights each day, sessions last 45 minutes and cost £15.00 per person (over 18's only).

The festival is held at the RAF Museum Cosford set against a backdrop of aircraft and handily next to Cosford train station with trains running from Shrewsbury, Wolverhampton and Birmingham....allowing you to make the most of the day.

Organisers have secured some of the regions top chefs to cook a range of dishes live on the demo stage. Plus, festival goers can sit back and enjoy If you love street food accompanied by a gin or bands playing throughout the day on the music a cocktail or two...this is the fstival for you ! stage.

A tasty line-up of local producers will be heading to the Cosford Food Festival on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 July 2020, showcasing some of the region’s finest artisan produce and locally brewed beverages.

This year's line up is looking impressive with some of the best street food in town serving up flavours from around the world to tempt food- ies. Plus, four huge marquees packed full of local If you have little ones, bring them with food and drink for you to sample and buy! you....there will be plenty of entertainment including kids cookery classes, circus skills, face Returning to the Cosford Food Festival for 2020 painting and a tent packed full of activities. is Gin Flight! Sit back, relax and enjoy a unique gin tasting experience on board our VC10 air- Tickets are on sale now, visit:

Admission Prices: Adult £6.00 Child (5-15 years) £2.00 Family (2 adults, up to 4 children) £14.00 Children under 5 - FREE

For more details and to purchase tickets visit: Facebook: @CosfordFoodFestival

14 countysignpost.co.uk Glansevern Hall Gardens Potting Shed Café and Estate Shop

www.glansevern.co.uk 01686 640644 nr Welshpool SY21 8AH

15 Church Stretton Arts Festival

July 25th - August 8th saxophone and harp, has seen Gillian and Elinor acclaimed as rising stars. Described as ’masters of G & S in small spaces’ we welcome Charles Court Opera and their performance of Iolanthe. The Walsall Jazz Orchestra (its town’s best kept secret!) with its big band repertoire of modern jazz with a strong rock- fusion element will have you toe-tapping throughout.

Vibrant and anarchic, The Pantaloons Theatre Company presents a fun-filled performance of Sherlock Holmes, and Viennese tavern band ZRI a re-scoring of one of Charlie Chaplin’s early silent classics. Lucy Stevens makes a welcome festival return to perform a new one- woman play, Virginia Woolf: Killing the Angel. The final event is The Versatility Serenaders, a novel and engaging ensemble, who bring to life a diverse range of early 20th century music and vocal entertainment, from Tango to Tin Pan Alley, Ragtime to Dance Band, and impress us with their mastery of some lesser known The Pantaloons Theatre Company instruments. Guaranteed to end the Festival with a swing! In its 54th year the Festival promises another excellent and varied programme. The opening concert in St Laurence’s Church sees a return visit from internationally-acclaimed Karolos. This unique chamber group will perform Mozart’s Clarinet Quintet and some superb chamber pieces of Stephen Dodgson. For our classical music fans this will be an unmissable concert. Further treats in store include Latvian cellist Margarita Balanos whose distinguished artistry and mesmerising stage presence have delighted audiences world-wide, and pianist Gamal Khamis whose formidable keyboard skills have bowled over his many devotees. We also feature A4 Brass Quartet whose unique A4 Brass Quartet blend of cornet, tenor horn, baritone horn and euphonium creates both lyrical and high-octane works for a distinctive new take on chamber music. Polaris Duo, with its unusual pairing of

16 countysignpost.co.uk Gamal Khamis

Also featured are a Teatime Concert, free Coffee Concerts and Organ Recitals. Open throughout the Festival, our annual Art Exhibition (guest artist Gerry Plumb) gets bigger and better, providing an excellent showcase for local artists, crafts people and photographers. Not to be missed!

Ticket information is available online

Exhibitor information can be obtained online or from

[email protected] www.strettonfestival.org.uk twitter - @StrettonFest

17 Burwarton Show THE BEST IN ITS FIELD ! 6th August

First Thursday in August means that it is This year we welcome back the Jamie Squibb Burwarton Show Day – 6th August this year. Freestyle Motorcross display team with their daredevil stunts to the Main Ring complemented Burwarton Show on 6 August is a traditional by the rush and dash of the Shetland Pony agricultural show and a fantastic day out in the Grand National, every bit as exciting as the real wonderful Shropshire countryside catering for thing but on a slightly smaller scale. all ages and all tastes and there is plenty to taste with a mouth-watering selection of local All the usual attractions are present with heavy produce in the Food Hall and around the emphasis on a traditional agricultural show, local showground. crafts, conservation area, sheep shearing, trade stands, shopping arcade, craft market, food hall, handicrafts and horticulture. Competition is

Images © Ruth Rees Photgraphy countysignpost.co.uk 18 fierce with classes for heavy horses, cattle, sheep, for juniors (12-16 years) whilst accompanied pigs, horses, carriage driving, dressage and show- children 11 years and under enter FREE. Tickets jumping plus the ever popular mounted Fancy are available at pre-show discounted prices from Dress competition. New for this year are classes outlets throughout the county, on-line at for the Valais Blacknose sheep which the show www.burwartonshow.co.uk or direct from the welcomed as very photogenic visitors last year. Show Office on 01746 787535. Follow us on : Don’t miss the opportunity to meet the Dyfed- burwarton_show Powys Mounted Special Constables with the mascot of the 1st Royal Dragoon Guards Burwartonshow www.burwartonshow.co.uk The show opens at 8.00 a.m. with the first horse classes in the Main Ring and continues Look forward to seeing you there!! throughout the day with livestock classes and horse classes.

Not to be missed by the youngsters, the Panic Circus team – a modern non-animal social circus providing hands on family fun activities will entertain in the Children’s play area, whilst the ever popular Village Green programme runs throughout the day with Magic Russ, Punch and Judy, the Church Stretton Accordion Band and Helen Pearson singing.

The Showground is at Cleobury North WV16 6RP on the B4364 between Bridgnorth and Ludlow and parking is free. Ticket prices remain unchanged from last year - £17 for adults, £5

19 20 21 Shrewsbury Flower Show August 14th - 15th So much more than a flower show !

Shrewsbury Flower Show will be celebrating its 133rd show this year, making it one of the world’s longest running independent flower shows.

This year, on the 14th and 15th of August The Quarry, a beautiful 29-acre park, will be awash with wonderful flowers, fabulous food and live entertainment - the ultimate summer day out! At the heart of The Quarry is a magical sunken garden called The Dingle, this stunning centerpiece is carefully cared for by Shrewsbury Town Council.

The Show offers attractions for all ages - including amazing floral arrangements, inspiring Phil Vickery show gardens, showjumping competitions and exciting arena entertainment. There are great shopping opportunities, along with dedicated Food Hall and Craft marquees and a large trade stands area. Shrewsbury Flower Show really is an ideal family day out. Visitors can enjoy lectures and advice from experts, including the celebrity gardeners in the Lecture Marque. This year TV chef Phil Vickery will be demonstrating his cookery skills in the Food Hall.

Enjoy performances throughout the day from military bands and choirs on the Bandstand. Each evening there will be live music, followed by the grand finale and world class fireworks display.

Activities in the Children’s Area are free - children 15 years and under have free admission to the Show when accompanying an adult.

22 countysignpost.co.uk

27th August - 1st September Hailed by Musical Opinion Quarterly as ‘an indispensable mainstay of the cultural calendar’, the 2020 Presteigne. Festival programme brings together a typically wide variety of constituents.

Included is an exploration of lesser-known music from Ireland, Scotland and Wales, a feature of the work of Leoš Janácek – one of the most original musical voices of the twentieth-century – and a celebration of Beethoven’s 250th birthday year.

The Festival’s advocacy of contemporary British music continues with Tarik O’Regan as composerin-residence and a corpus of eight exciting and eclectic commissions from O’Regan Amy Dickson (Mosaic Rooms, a concerto for saxophone and triple-bill – Janácek’s atmospheric The Diary of string orchestra), Martin Butler (Body Electric, for One Who Disappeared in the translation by Nobel solo saxophone), Gary Carpenter (a string prize-winner Seamus Heaney is programmed orchestra piece, as dreams are made on), Amelia with Judith Weir’s striking King Harald’s Saga – an Clarkson (a set of songs for tenor and harp), opera in three acts for unaccompanied female Ninfea Cruttwell-Reade (the Presteigne Festival’s voice and Ninfea Cruttwell-Reade’s fascinating first ever ‘Evolve’ composer), Joseph Phibbs (a new music theatre work Reginald: The Musings of Violin Sonata), Emma-Ruth Richards (a string an Edwardian Gentleman, which draws its material quartet work, Tenebris Litterarum) and 2020 Royal from the writings of Saki. Philharmonic Society Emerging Composer,

Robin Haigh (a work for solo harp). A balanced collection of supporting events

includes a trio of Irish films, literary talks, an The Festival’s successful partnership with Nova exhibition in association with the Sidney Nolan Music Opera continues into its sixth year, with a

Clare Hammond Chloë Hanslip

24 countysignpost.co.uk Bath Camerata Trust and Presteigne Open Studios, organised in co-operation with locally-based artists.

The 2020 Festival boasts a wonderfully starry artist line-up – the Carducci Quartet, Nova Music Opera, violinist Chloë Hanslip, pianists Clare Hammond and Andrew Matthews-Owen, Australian saxophonist Amy Dickson, singers Bradley Smith and Jonathan Gunthorpe, trumpeter Angela Whelan and harpist Oliver Wass. The Bath Camerata are choir-in-residence conducted by director Benjamin Goodson, whilst the ever-popular resident Festival Orchestra undertakes three concerts under artistic director George Vass. Carducci Quartet

Community outreach continues to be a vital part Brochures available of the Presteigne Festival’s offer, enabling better at the end of April from: engagement with communities both at home Presteigne Festival, PO Box 30, and away. In 2020 we’ll be working with senior Presteigne, members of the community in association with Powys LD8 2WF the Bleddfa Centre and the East Radnorshire 01544 267800 Day Centre, whilst our Autumn Tour to Bristol www.presteignefestival.com and Birmingham will be undertaken by exciting young harpist, Oliver Wass.

25 Shrewsbury Steam Rally 30th - 31st August

The County of Salop Steam Engine Society’s 2020 Rally takes place at Onslow Park, Shrewsbury on the August Bank Holiday, - Sunday 30th August and Monday 31st August.

Shrewsbury Steam Rally will showcase over 1000 exciting exhibits and the highly-entertaining range of attractions will include the wonderful spectacle of working steam engines, and beautifully preserved classic vehicles from yesteryear, all to delight visitors to the popular annual family event.

In the main arena, spectators can also enjoy moving convoys of historic commercial vehicles, including buses and fire engines; vintage cycles; working horses; vintage tractors; pre-and post World War II cars; classic motorcycles; and perambulators... with all entrants invited to be in period costume.

Photographs © Philip Davies 26

The Devil’s Horsemen are still considered as Europe’s Number One Stunt and Trick Riding Display Team. Bringing fast and furious action to the arena. All three family members are stars in their own right – Gerard Naprous started the team in the 1970s and is a superb horse master. His son Daniel, has worked with Ridley Scott, Steven Spielberg on War Horse amongst others, © Devil’s Horsemen and his daughter Camilla, was the head instructor for all the equine stunts on the Game of Thrones. Current plans are for visitors to see the Wild West horse-riding display (with a real Stagecoach), Cossack Trick Riding at this year’s Rally. The Devil’s Horsemen elite team of riders has worked together for decades providing exciting displays, many of which have been featured in international films - so visitors are in for a real treat!

Full Arena Programme on both days.

The Rally covers 45 acres of beautiful parkland, with 6 acres of Trade Stands. The Rally hosts a variety of preserved commercial vehicles, that includes lorries, buses, fire engines and a large display of military vehicles. The Olde Time Fair offers lots of fun, with steam-powered rides for all - accompanied by vintage fairground music. Finally there are some excellent miniature steam engines, and a Craft Marquee - which gets bigger each year!

The family-friendly event provides some enjoyable entertainment with a full Arena Programme on both days, including the highly- popular and majestic cavalcade of Showman’s engines, traction engines, steam rollers and steam cars. Spectators can enjoy the annual highly- popular interactive display of birds of prey.

Full information from www.shrewsburysteamrally.co.uk and visitors can buy tickets online.

Enquiries: [email protected] (01938) 570874. Postal address: COSSES, PO Box 4706, Shrewsbury. SY5 0WT.

Ludlow Food Festival September 11th - 13th A feast for all the senses

A feast for all the senses ...The Ludlow Food Festival was first started in 1995 and was the result of a pub table conversation amongst likeminded friends looking to preserve and promote the independent shops and producers of the town and surrounding area. These principles still guide everything the Festival continues to do today. The event has grown from an initial 500 visitors to around 16,000 and is renowned across the globe for its foodie focus - with visitors coming from across the UK as well as the United States, Japan and Australia.

Organisers of the Ludlow Food Festival are hard at work bringing together a host of new and favourite attractions for visitors to enjoy on 11th-13th September this year. More than 180 of the very best local food and drink producers will be in the stunning surroundings of Ludlow Castle and the town - sharing their skills, enthusiasm and of course amazing products they make. The line-up of chefs, food experts and enthusiasts across Ludlow’s two main stages, promises to be full of exceptional talent and Tasting sessions and specialist talks are always variety with some new faces promised this year. incredibly popular, along with the excellent Slow In the past we have welcomed great chefs such Food Taste Workshops. Little ones won’t miss as Michelin starred Brad Carter, and Gareth out either, with a special kids’ cookery school. Ward, Wahaca restaurateur and broadcaster Of course, the ever-popular sausage and ale Thomasina Miers, DJ BBQ and Observer Food trails will also be taking place around Ludlow Monthly editor Allan Jenkins - as well as a too, so you can take in the delights of the town’s number of Great British Menu, Masterchef and many independent shops along the way. Great British Bake Off winners and contestants. Keep an eye on the Festival’s website Early Bird and Pre Festival discounts are www.foodfestival.co.uk for details in the coming available so book your tickets in advance on the months. website: www.foodfestival.co.uk

See you there! Images © Ashleigh Cadet 11th - 13th September

28 countysignpost.co.uk 29 Shropshire Kids festival

Shropshire Kids Festival Telford Shropshire Kids Festival Shrewsbury 10th & 11th April 2020 5th & 6th Sept 2020 Telford International Centre Shrewsbury Quarry Park

This year, Shropshire Festivals presents not one, At both festivals there will be an obstacle course, but two kids festivals for the county. First up, a battalion of inflatables with a helter skelter Telford Kids Festival takes place on the 10th and slide, giant games, space hoppers, zorbing, mini 11th April inside at the Telford International golf, bubble football, music tent, go karts, Centre across three halls. In September, as the STEAM zone, foam party, trampolining, arts, summer holidays draw to a close, the crafts, baking sessions, circus tent, nerf wars, Shrewsbury Kids Festival takes place on the 5th disco dancing, exploring, discovering and epic and 6th September at Shrewsbury’s Quarry Park. enjoyment!

Shropshire Festivals provide the perfect family With nappy changing and breastfeeding areas, day out. Once inside, all activities are free, which dedicated under 5 zones and boundless activities means parents and guardians don’t have to set available, this is the perfect destination for a day any limits on how much youngsters can take part of family fun. in, and the kids get to have non-stop fun. Tickets can be purchased from shropshirekidsfest.co.uk. For more information and tickets www.shropshirekidsfest.co.uk

30 countysignpost.co.uk Shropshire OktoberFest 2nd - 3rd October

Shropshire Oktoberfest is the county’s best party and celebration of brewers. The huge beer tent returns on the 2nd and 3rd October 2020 in Shrewsbury’s Quarry Park. Brewers from the region and beyond will be rolling up their barrels to serve around 150 real ales. There will also be numerous bars serving up lager, cider and perry, plus a prosecco parlour, gin den, and wine bar, which can all be mopped up with a vast array of delicious street food.

Shropshire Festival’s founder, Beth Heath, comments, “We are very excited to be bringing back Shropshire Oktoberfest for a fourth year. We have been thrilled with the support for the event over the last three years, with people flocking to the Quarry for fun with friends, networking with a difference and group outings.

With live music, a comedy tent, and a silent disco, there is a lot more to enjoy than the beer alone.

Don’t forget your Lederhosen!

Tickets can be purchased from .shropshireoktoberfest.co.uk A VIP option is available. Ludlow Medieval Christmas Fayre 28th & 29th November

There’s a wide range of food and drink on offer nd Now in its 22 year ! to tickle your taste buds too, from mulled wine and cider, to roast chestnuts and pies, or why not Join us in the stunning setting of Ludlow’s very head over to our local Beer Tent for carol own Medieval Castle for this fantastically fun singing and traditional wassails to whet your weekend with entertainment galore and a huge appetite for our jam-packed entertainment range of food, drink and festive shopping. On programme. With everything from fighting Saturday, join knights, maidens, entertainers and knights, medieval music, jesters and juggling to stallholders from 10am onwards for a full our giant ten-foot puppets, there’s free programme of entertainment, hands on entertainment all weekend! activities and fantastic shopping. As the sun sets across the beautiful hills of South Shropshire, Head across the moat to the Inner Bailey for why not linger for the late-night opening (until storytelling, hands-on-history, demonstrations 9pm) as the castle comes alive for a fire-lit and activities as well as more food and drink! evening of Medieval Revelry. On Sunday visitors From St. Nicholas in his magical den to try-on can enjoy a day filled with Medieval festivities armour, have-a-go activities and meeting birds from 10am–4pm. of prey, there really is something for all ages to enjoy. On both days, visitors can explore over 100 stalls selling everything from seasonal wares to food For the latest information and updates, visit and drink, crafts, historical goods and more. The www.ludlowmedievalchristmas.co.uk Fayre offers the ideal chance to find the perfect or on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter original gift or indulge in a unique treat for yourself!

32 33 Founded in 1891 and opened on 7th July, 1892, the Bridgnorth Cliff Railway continues to Do visit England’s only remaining inland transport passengers up and down the 111 ft red electric funicular railway! sandstone cliffs which separate High Town from £1.60 return fare. Low Town and the picturesque River Severn. Telephone: 01746-762052 (stations). “Being first and foremost a working funicular, its www.bridgnorthcliffrailway.co.uk importance to Bridgnorth townspeople and visitors alike is undiminished by age.”

The cliff railway operates by two counter- balancing carriages travelling in opposite directions on parallel tracks. Originally, the cars were powered by a water-balance system with water for the ballast tanks pumped back to the top station using gas engines. After the second of these was taken out of service, the system was converted to one of electrically operated winding drums. These are of a type used in OPENING mines. SUMMER WINTER TIMES Bridgnorth Cliff Railway was founded by the MON-SAT 8AM - 8PM 8AM - famous Victorian hydraulic lift engineer Sir 6.30PM George Croydon Marks, who later became Lord 12 NOON - 12 NOON - Marks of Woolwich. George also engineered the SUNDAY 8PM 6.30PM cliff railway and became its first managing director until 1901. His brother Edward, another TICKETS £1.60 RETURN. CHILDREN FREE. engineer, became its next managing director DISCOUNTS FOR PARTIES OF 15 OR MORE. until 1924. The cliff railway is now owned by distant cousins who bought the original 6A, Castle Terrace, Bridgnorth, Shropshire WV16 4AH company in 2011. Stations Tel: 01746 762052. Office Tel: 01746 762124

The famous Winding House, situate next to the Top Station serves twenty types of tea. From here one can view the winding gear through a viewing window or sit out on the terrace from where one can see the wonderful views across the River Severn. Directly above the Bottom Station, the Stoneway Guest House offers a unique B & B experience.

www.bridgnorthcliffrailway.co.uk

Pictures © Bridgnorth Cliff It’s Quicker, Cleaner and Greener Railway by Cliff Railway !

34 NEWTOWN TEXTILE MUSEUM

spinners as ancestors will enjoy seeing how they lived and worked. Regular spinning and weaving demonstrations are held where visitors can try their hand at these ancient crafts, and other crafts days are also held.

The Museum will host two exhibitions in 2020, one on quilts and the other on an aspect of the town's social history. See the website for details

www.newtowntextilemuseum.co.uk or the The Museum is housed in an 1830s hand-loom Facebook page: Newtown Textile Museum. weaving factory which consisted of six back-to- back cottages which had one room downstairs and one room upstairs. Above these were two floors which housed up to 22 hand-looms. The building is largely intact and gives visitors a real sense of the life at the time. Newtown was known as the ‘Leeds of Wales’ in the early 1800s as the town became the centre of a thriving hand-loom weaving industry.

The stories we tell in the Museum relate to: the working and living conditions of the weavers and others who occupied the cottages; the journey of wool from ‘fleece to flannel’,; together with the industrial history of the town in the 19th century and associated trades in the town such as drapers, clog-makers and the leather industry. We also cover some of the significant people in the town including Pryce Jones. Credited with establishing the first Mail Order business in Britain he played a major role in the town’s prosperity in the second half of the 1800s. Family historians who have weavers and

© Polly Lovegrove RRAYS FFARM && WWOODLAND WWALKS

Rays Farm is a family owned business, located in For children with boundless energy, there is a beautiful Shropshire countryside. Enjoy a choice of play areas to suit all ages: Soft Play, perfect family day out, meeting animals and Sand Play, Wooden Log Play and Forest Play. birds, and exploring Ancient Woodland Walks. Regular seasonal events take place during local school holidays, such as daily Animal With 17 acres to explore, you will see a variety of Encounters, fun Trails around the Farm, Animal animals from Llama and Alpacas to Pigs and Care Time, Den Building and more. Reindeer, plus a collection of over 10 different species of Owls. Take a stroll through the After exploring Rays Farm, enjoy a selection of Pygmy Goat Paddock, where you can mingle hot and cold food and drinks in our Country amongst the friendly goats. Café, sample a slice of handmade cake and choose from a selection of coffees, including In the Small Animal Barn, you will see our latest cappuccinos and lattes. All ages, gluten free and new born animals, guinea pigs and chinchillas. vegetarians are catered for. The Farmhouse Front Lawn is home to Rabbits, Ducks and Geese, as well as Bertie who is the naughtiest Goat on the Farm!

Explore Mythical Woods and Fairytale Forest; follow the Myth and Magic Wood Sculpture Trail, along Ancient Woodland Paths, to find over 35 unique wood carvings, encouraging children to touch and feel.

36 countysignpost.co.uk Before departing, take a moment to peruse the Opening times well stocked gift shop and select a Rays Farm memento or special gift. We have a range of Gift 7 days a week Vouchers including day passes and annual passes from 8th February – 31st October 2020, – a perfect present for that special person. 10am – 5.30pm (dusk in Winter).

In addition, choose an Animal Sponsorship Pack: a unique gift for any animal lover. Please visit www.raysfarm.com for more information and prices.

Rays Farm also offers the following: baby changing, toilets, disabled toilets, ample hand washing facilities, free car parking and outdoor picnic areas.

Rays Farm is a day out for all ages. With a wide variety of animals to meet, woodlands to explore and activities to take part in, there is something for everyone .

Telephone 01299 841255 www.raysfarm.com [email protected]

37 TTHEHE JJUDGEUDGE’’SS LLODGINGODGING

The Judge’s Lodging has long had a reputation for liking the quirkier side of history, so a visit to the museum will treat you to all sorts of fascinating insights into Victorian living, from jelly-making and napkin folding to toilet habits and household maintenance hints. This award- winning historic judge’s accommodation and court offers a most unusual journey back in time.

Wander through the judge’s private apartments and make yourself at home, for The Judge’s Lodging is an historic house with a difference – you can touch! One of the world’s most appealing small museums’ You can lie on the beds, read the judge’s books Dr John Davies, historian. and even pump water in the kitchen. Below stairs there is the full range of servants’ rooms to Truly inspirational’ is how HRH Prince of Wales explore, with kitchens, sleeping quarters and described The Judge’s Lodging on a visit to this workrooms; a whole gaslit world to discover. stunningly restored Victorian courthouse. Yes – gaslit! The whole house is lit completely Historic Royal Palaces Curator & historian, Lucy by period lighting – once you enter the realms of Worsley exclaimed ‘WHAT a stunning place!’ after the Judge’s rooms, there is not an electric light in filming for the BBC in the building. The sight! The tour is finished by a trip to the vast Hudson's Heritage Awards hailed it as ‘Britain’s echoing courtroom, where you are haunted by Best Hidden Gem’ and it was Highly the echoes of trials long since concluded. You Commended in the 2019 Welsh Hospitality are guided through this Victorian world by an Awards. A visitor recently summed their eavesdropping audiotour featuring the voice of impression up in the Visitor Book as actor Robert Hardy. ‘breathtaking in its authenticity’. You really do need to see for yourself what all the fuss is over this exceptional courthouse in the tiny Welsh border town of Presteigne.

There’s a host of special events and exhibitions to add to your entertainment. Every school holiday will come with exciting trails and activities to entertain the young, along with their own guidebook, full of facts about toilets, pants and things odd. There’s a host of new activity chests to explore too. Look out for special

38 events and news throughout the year on the website, or follow on: facebook.com/TheJudgesLodging

If you need to relax, the museum also runs a If you want more information on any of the pop-up tearoom throughout the summer and museum’s work or activities, visit the website or school holiday periods, where you can grab just call the staff who are always happy to chat. some locally roasted coffee and cakes baked just 100 yards away. Telephone 01544 260650 www.judgeslodging.org.uk When Lord Chief Justice Campbell was staying in the building whilst visiting the court in 1855, he claimed that it was “the most commodious and elegant apartments in all England and Wales”. We are pleased to say that little has changed since his time, although there are now flushing toilets and everyone is allowed to sit in the Judge’s chair!

LLUDLOWUDLOW MMUSEUMUSEUM ATAT THETHE BBUTTERCROSSUTTERCROSS

Ludlow’s historic Grade I listed Buttercross was built in 1743–46 on the site of the High Cross at the heart of the town.

From its central location, the museum enjoys fabulous views along the listed beautiful buildings of Broad Street and the countryside Ludlow Town Council is very grateful to have beyond. the support of Friends of Ludlow Museum,

who are funding free entry for children and The museum’s collections tell the town’s history facilitate the purchase of some exhibits. and explain how Victorian geologists unravelled the meaning of Ludlow's rocks, making them Ludlow Museum at the Buttercross, internationally famous. Ludlow, SY8 1AW

Please contact Ludlow Town Council The Museum at the Buttercross tells Ludlow’s museum staff on: history from the warm shallow tropical sea that 01584 878 697 covered the area 400 million years ago and www.ludlow.gov.uk formed the town’s unique geology and fossils. Through the prehistory of Ludlow and Bromfield, and the treasures including the Admission: Facilities: Bitterley Hoard, sword pommel, ring and other £1 adults Lift & Disabled hoards. And the medieval artefacts from Ludlow Access Toilet Castle & St Laurence’s Church, both situated in the town centre and near neighbours of the Free under 16yrs Opening times: Buttercross. To maps depicting the development of the walled town and Ludlow’s Fri, Sat, Sun & Bank architecture throughout the ages including the Holidays 10-4pm Market Hall, also the story of Ludlow’s professions and trades; and concluding with exhibits from Ludlow at war and peace.

40 countysignpost.co.uk IIRONBRIDGE GGORGE MMUSEUMS

A fun day out is ensured at the Ironbridge Gorge Blists Hill Victorian Town where life over 100 Museums, which are set either side of the years ago is recreated stunning River Severn valley, near Telford. ironmasters, and see Abraham Darby’s original Step back in time at Blists Hill Victorian Town furnace where the Industrial Revolution began. and chat to the Victorians in their homes, shops The Museum of Iron celebrates the early iron and places of work as they go about their daily industry while the Museum of The Gorge life. Let your imagination run wild as you play explains the area’s importance. with the interactive exhibits at Enginuity. No visit to the area is complete without seeing Marvel at magnificent china in Coalport China the world’s first Iron Bridge in its new red colour Museum and walk through period room settings following extensive conservation work by adorned with decorative tiles at Jackfield Tile English Heritage. Museum. Enjoy a barista-made coffee and scrumptious cake in the new Furnace Eatery Check website for details and opening times opening late spring in Coalbrookdale then visit before travelling. For further information, call the nearby Darby Houses, once home to the old 01952 433 424 or visit www.ironbridge.org.uk

Thousands of places to stay and visit, please visit our tourism website countysignpost.co.uk

website 1 million+ hits/year & adverts £45+vat/year

41 RROYALOYAL AAIRIR FFORCEORCE MMUSEUMUSEUM CCOSFORDOSFORD

This year discover the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford in Shropshire. Admission to the Museum is free and offers a great day out for all. Explore the fascinating story of the RAF and of the thousands of ordinary servicemen and women who have served in it and whose invaluable contribution has shaped the world that we live in today.

The RAF Museum Cosford is home to over 75 historic aircraft including the world’s oldest Spitfire, the unique TSR2 and the mighty Vulcan bomber to name but a few. Visitors will discover a world class collection of aircraft and artefacts displayed inside three wartime hangars and within the award winning National Cold War Exhibition.

Begin your journey in the ‘100 Years of the RAF 1918-2018’ display and explore the role the RAF

42 countysignpost.co.uk plays today and its future contributions, before Electric Lightning suspended vertically! heading into the Test Flight hangar. Here you find a collection of prototype aircraft, many The Museum also has numerous hands-on were produced in secrecy, often utilising interactive activities for families. Learn if you components borrowed from other types. have what it takes to be a pilot in Fun ‘n’ Flight, Highlights include the Bristol 188, built mainly whether you’re learning how to fly a Spitfire, of stainless steel and designed to investigate the investigating air flow with ‘The Blower’ or effects of heat on aircraft structures at very high guiding a Hercules to a drop zone, you will be speeds, along with the British Aerospace learning and having fun. Experimental Aircraft Programme (EAP), many of the features pioneered by the EAP were later Let your imagination take flight on board the refined for the Eurofighter Typhoon, still in Museum’s 4D Experience which combines service today. cutting-edge 3D computer animation with the

added fourth dimension of special Set amongst the Museum’s collection of environmental effects. Experience the thrill of warplanes, three iconic First World War aircraft; flying in formation with the world famous the Sopwith Pup, Sopwith 1 ½ Strutter and the aerobatic display team the Red Arrows in the Bristol M.1c greet you on arrival in the War in new 4D ride. Step inside the new Virtual Reality the Air Hangar, displayed alongside the aircraft Zone and experience the thrill of flying in a are the personal items of Second Lieutenant Spitfire. Enjoy a six minute VR flight which Kevin Robert Furniss of the Royal Flying Corps places you in the cockpit and 10,000 feet in the (RFC). This hangar includes British, German air. and Japanese aircraft, all with an important place in the development of military aviation. Relax and enjoy a drink, snack or hearty meal in Highlights include the Boulton Paul Defiant our fully licenced restaurant with views Mk1 night fighter built locally in overlooking the airfield. Or stop off at café in Wolverhampton and the Junkers Ju88R-1, the the National Cold War Exhibition where you can most versatile German combat aircraft of the enjoy a selection of light refreshments nestled Second World War. amongst the aircraft.

The National Cold War Exhibition truly has the RAF Museum Cosford is a day out that everyone ‘wow’ factor with its eye-catching architecture will enjoy, whatever the weather and with a wide and design. Visitors will discover Cold War range of exciting events taking place throughout stories in immersive Hotspots; explore exciting the year, there is something to suit all ages. displays of aircraft, iconic cars, models, tanks and even life-sized Russian dolls. Aircraft not to be missed include all three British V Bombers, Vulcan, Victor and Valiant and the English

43 Spitfire 10K and Spitfire Family Run

To find out more visit the museum’s website www.rafmuseum.org/cosford. Keep up to date Vintage & Handmade Festival with the latest news and event information by following them on social media.

Open daily from 10am including Bank Holidays. Closed 24-26 December and 1 January. Shifnal Shropshire TF11 8UP T: 01902 376200 E: [email protected]

W: www.rafmuseum.org/cosford RAF Museum Cosford - Sleepover ADMISSION FREE

Large Model Air Show Events for 2020 © RAF Museum Cosford 14th March Photography Night Shoot

8th - 10th May VE Weekend Street Party

14th June RAF Cosford Air Show

27nd - 28th June & Open Cockpits Event 17th - 18th October

4th - 5th July Large Model Air Show

18th - 19th July Cosford Food Festival

15th - 16th August Vintage and Handmade Festival

30th August Spitfire 10K and Spitfire Family Run

Proms - commemorating Battle of 12th Sept Britain 80th

44 countysignpost.co.uk WWHITCHURCHHITCHURCH HHERITAGEERITAGE CCENTREENTRE

2020 Opening Hours Tuesday 11.00 - 16.00 Thursday 11.00 - 16.00 Friday 11.00 - 16.00 Groups by arrangement

FREE ENTRY

Museum is wheelchair accessible Disabled parking adjacent to Heritage Centre Whitchurch is renowned for being the only town Gift shop selling souvenirs and local history in Shropshire to have been continually inhabited publications on the same site since being built in Roman Times. Contact Details 12 St Mary’s Street The Heritage Centre is home to Whitchurch Whitchurch, Shropshire, Museum and Archives and contains displays and SY13 1QY exhibits that reflect the town’s historic roots. Tel 01948 664577

The integral Gallery contains a selection of Collection & Research Enquiries original works, in both oil and watercolour, by [email protected] Randolph Caldecott and other artists connected with Whitchurch. Permanent displays include: Websites www.whitchurch-heritage.co.uk ● Local archaeological finds - Bronze age axe- www.thegreatwar.whitchurch-shropshire.co.uk head, Anglo Saxon silver tags, Roman pottery www.allourstories.whitchurch-heritage.co.uk & other treasure ● Sir Edward German - Whitchurch-born Social Media composer and musician www.facebook.com/whitchurch-heritagecentre ● Randolph Caldecott - Artist and illustrator twitter.com/WHSHC who worked in Whitchurch ● History of Joyce’s Clocks - a Whitchurch- There are numerous temporary displays which based company famous for its tower clocks tell stories connected to Whitchurch and the ● Communication during World War One - local area. These currently include: based around operating cart ● Themed interactive displays geared towards • St Alkmund’s church silver younger children • Commemorative Ceramics • Napoleonic Wars • WH Smith Foundry • Whitchurch Railway Station • Cheshire Cheese in Shropshire

45 SSHREWSBURYHREWSBURY MMARKETARKET HHALLALL Shrewsbury’s multi award-winning Market Hall is well worth a visit for its vibrant blend of delicious street food, unique cafes, boutique stalls, arts and crafts, fresh produce and much more. There’s even a gin bar!

Spy Shrewsbury’s soaring post-modernist clock tower on the skyline and here you’ll find the Market Hall, hunkered at its base.

This large indoor market has earned a reputation as a must-visit destination for some of the most unique, independent shopping and creative lunch spots in town.

And a number of times a year the market opens until 10pm as a popular Saturday evening venue for food, drinks and twilight shopping. Raven Bookshop

Diners can enjoy flavours from around the world including Thai and Indian street food, tapas, Tex-Mex, fusion, continental and authentic Beijing dumplings. Vegan and vegetarian diets are well catered for.

Gin parlour Gindifferent specialises in more than 100 craft gins which can be savoured alongside artisan cheese and charcuterie platters.

The market’s eateries source most of their The Bird’s Nest ingredients from the dizzying array of stalls selling fresh produce, from meat and fish to vegetables, bread and cheeses.

There are traditional family butchers and fruit and veg sellers who farm the land, growing much of the food they sell themselves, including organic.

Barkworths Seafoods has been supplying fresh fish to the people of Shrewsbury for over 100 years, sourcing from small family-owned inshore Romy Design day boats in Cornwall, Scotland, Wales and Scarborough.

Mistilley Other food and drink specialists include Snapdragon Wholefoods, spice blend company Black Box and independent wine merchant Iron & Rose which sells wines from small production vineyards that use traditional and natural methods of production.

Family-run delicatessen Cook and Carve stocks British and continental artisan cheeses, cooked meats and home produced bacon and sausage.

Take the time to explore the market’s retail stalls including homeware and gift boutiques. Discover vintage finds, pre-loved books and unique handcrafts or treat yourself to a one-off work of art. Moli Teahouse

Also find niche shops selling vinyl records, traditional film cameras, model trains and specialist board games.

Ewe and Ply is a national award-winning yarn shop and doggy boutique Company of Hounds is perfect for stylish pampered pooch accessories such as Harris Tweed collars and natural treats and grooming products.

For a makeover drop in for a trim at Risdon’s Hopesay Glebe Farm barbershop or book a cut at organic hair salon Eden.

You can book a holiday at travel pod The Travel Table and even hire or buy a bicycle to explore more of Shrewsbury and the surrounding area. Supplier Urban Bikes UK provides sightseeing cycle route maps that weave through the town and fan out into the countryside.

Saturday Late Night dates for 2020 are March 7, April 4, June 6, June 27, September 5, October Corbetts 31 and December 5 (last entry 9.30pm).

Shrewsbury Market Hall, in Claremont Street, holds full trading days on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 8am to 4pm. Thursdays are a limited trading day with a selection of stalls open. www.markethallshrewsbury.co.uk

Art K Duffy 48 countysignpost.co.uk Sun 30th - Mon 31st August Bank Holiday Onslow Park SY3 5EE

www.magazinepublishing.co.uk HTML5 enhanced online magazines clickable links, panning images, slideshows & videos

49 SSHROPSHIREHROPSHIRE HHILLSILLS DDISCOVERYISCOVERY CCENTREENTRE

The Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre is the cream that you’re after, there’s something for perfect place to start your exploration of the everyone to enjoy Shropshire Hills. Visit the new and improved . exhibition where you can meet the Condover A stroll in the 30 acres of riverside meadows, Mammoth and dip into the stories of some of with all ability paths, will round off your trip the people, places and products within this spe- nicely. cial landscape.

Soar over the hills, towns and rivers of the sur- rounding landscape in a breath-taking panoram- ic film. Carrying on his dad, Pete’s legacy, profes- sional actor, Billy Postlethwaite narrates the jour- ney where, from the height of Clee Hill to the valley of Clun, you’ll see Shropshire like you’ve never seen it before. From start to finish, use all of your senses to explore the Ice Age through to the present day here in the Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, run by local charity, Grow Cook Learn.

Discover a unique range of gifts, cards, books, home ware, local artisan crafts and local food products, much of it made in Shropshire and reflecting the beauty of the natural landscape – you are guaranteed to take home a little bit of Shropshire.

The award winning café offers home-cooked food made from scratch, on site, using locally sourced produce. Whether it’s hot meals, freshly prepared sandwiches, afternoon tea with a selec- tion of home-made cakes or just a cold ice

50 countysignpost.co.uk Opening Hours Open 7 days a week 10am – 5pm The last entry to the exhibition is 4.30pm. Telephone 01588 676060 Craven Arms SY7 9RS 2020 Event Highlights www.shropshirehillsdiscoverycentre.co.uk (See the website for more details )

Shropshire Way 80K 4 - 5 April Festival

11 July Hay Meadow Festival

15 August Shropshire Food Fair

25 October Autumn Apple Day

30 October Bonfire & Fireworks

7 - 8 November Frost Fair

51 AACTONCTON SSCOTTCOTT HISTORIC WORKING FARM, NEAR CHURCH STRETTON

Acton Scott Historic Working Farm near Visitors to the popular family attraction are Church Stretton demonstrates life on a transported back in time to the days of shire Shropshire upland farm before the days of horses, hay ricks and milkmaids. tractors. The farm has featured on BBC TV’s ‘Victorian Farm’, ‘Countryfile’ and many other film The farm allows visitors to mingle with their and TV shows. favourite animals and also see the heavy horses working the land with vintage farm machines. Every day there are activities to take part in such as bottle feeding the lambs, holding newly hatched chicks, collecting the eggs and pumping the bellows at the forge for the farrier.

Demonstrations vary day to day, on Sundays the dairymaid makes butter in the dairy which can be found for sale in the shop. Children visiting the farm will love the farmyard and animals, including pigs, poultry, cows, sheep and pygmy goats. There is also a play area next to the Old School House Cafe which serves fresh, homemade food throughout the day and delicious afternoon teas and a selection of hot and cold drinks to have in or take away.

52 countysignpost.co.uk Other things to look out for are the ploughing, sowing and harvesting. Each day the farmer’s wife goes about her daily chores. The working farm museum also holds a number of special events throughout the year, including, including, lambing, Woolly Saturday – celebrating the sheep, Wartime Farm – life on the Homefront in the 1940s, Apple Day and Steam Threshing.

The farm also runs a Rural Trade and Craft Course programme which covers all manner of skills from ploughing with heavy horses and blacksmithing to breadmaking and using natural dyes, with plenty more in between.

www.actonscottmuseum.com Acton Scott, Nr Church Stretton SY6 6QN

2020 Main Events Monday 30th May – first day of the season

Monday 25th May – Plant sale, Local nurseries and garden clubs will have plenty of different plants for your home, garden or allotment.

Saturday 6th June – Woolly Saturday, a day cel- ebrating the sheep and it’s fleece.

Saturday 25th July – Wheels and Wagons, see our farm carts, wagons and other wheeled machinery, meet the shires who are the power behind (or in front of) the vehicles. The wheel- wrights will tyre a wooden cart wheel, a dramatic demonstration not to be missed.

Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th August – Wartime farm, what was life like living on the Homefront? Have a go at the jobs the Land Girls do on the farm, join the home guard and hear the music they enjoyed when Britain was at war.

Saturday 24th, Sunday 25th, Saturday 31st October and Sunday 1st November – Steam Threshing weekends, listen out for the whistle of the steam engine as we end the season threshing the wheat ready for winter. This spectacular team effort shows the amount of work needed before we had the combine harvester. LLANGOLLEN RAILWAY

Llangollen Railway is the only standard gauge heritage railway in North Wales. We are located beside the historic Dee Bridge (built in 1345) in the centre of Llangollen town. The journey is a relaxing 10 miles travelling through the stunning Dee Valley to the lovely town of Corwen the cross roads of North Wales.

The line follows the picturesque River Dee, classed as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), for its entire length.

Our small section of line, which in its day went from Ruabon to Barmouth taking people to the seaside on holiday and transporting various goods including slate and chemicals, offers a sample of the sights and sounds of yesteryear. The line passes through some of the finest natural beauty North Wales has to offer.

The railway is located within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and this is evident as the train gently meanders through the Dee Valley.

54 countysignpost.co.uk Special Events in 2020

28 March 9 May, 11 July A Day out with Thomas 3 October

Fish and Chip Special. 2 May Pre-booking essential

The views from our carriages are breath taking 23 May Gin Train. Pre-booking advisable and constantly changing from season to season, 22 August you will see the first spring lambs and the ever changing colours of the beautiful vista. 21 June Father’s Day

Why not enjoy afternoon tea or a cream tea in 6 June Murder Mystery Train the comfort of one of our 1950’s carriages. Take 24 October Pre-booking essential a visit to our station shop in Llangollen and take home a souvenir of your special day. 4 & 5 July Classic transport weekend

As well as steam hauled trains, we also run Diesel locomotive and Heritage Railcar services 30 July - Sensational Sixties & Seventies 2 August themed event + Ale + Music on selected days throughout the season.

12 - 13 Heritage Railcar Gala Come and visit Llangollen Railway and see how September train travel used to be. llangollen-railway.co.uk 12 September Oktoberfest LL20 8SN 01978 860979 19 - 20 1940s Weekend September

26 -27 Diesel Weekend September Pre-booking advisable

Autumn Steam Gala 16 - 18 October Pre-booking advisable

Halloween Train 31 October Pre-booking essential

Ride the Rocket 1 November Pre-booking essential

December Santa Specials

December Mice Pie Specials

55 LLUDLOWUDLOW FFARMARM SSHOPHOP

Ludlow Farmshop is a one-of-a-kind food On site you’ll also find Ludlow Kitchen, a shopping experience where farming, food popular café where you can enjoy breakfast, production and retailing come together to create lunch, sandwiches, cakes and coffees – all made an award-winning environment. from produce from the estate and the farmshop. You can bring your four-legged friend too, as Ludlow Farmshop is part of the Earl of they are welcome in the conservatory area. Plymouth’s 8,000 acres of land extending across the Shropshire countryside, 6,500 acres are There are many other things to do when you farmed in hand. All of their beef, lamb and visit Ludlow Farmshop, on site there is a garden Gloucester Old Spot pork comes from their centre, children’s play area, florist and artists farm along with the milk used to make the gallery… oh, and a Post Office so you send your cheese and dairy products. There is a herd of postcard home! wild fallow deer roaming the land and a bountiful supply of wild game at certain times of You can also enjoy lunch or dinner at the award the year. winning Clive Arms whose chefs create sensational seasonal and locally sourced food They are passionate about local food, with 80% using produce grown and reared on their own of the food sold coming from Shropshire, and farm and Walled Garden, to really make the the surrounding counties of Herefordshire, most of your visit, why not stay overnight in one Worcestershire and Powys. Ludlow Farmshop is of The Clive Arms bedrooms and explore the designed to not only sell food but to produce it rest of what Ludlow and South Shropshire has and over half of their products are made in their to offer the very next day. production units that surround the shop floor. These are visible through glass windows that allow you to see the artisan producers making Bromfield, Ludlow SY8 2JR your food by hand.

56 countysignpost.co.uk

WWELSHPOOL && LLLANFAIR LLIGHT RRAILWAY

© Mike Heath

Steam railways – a great day with cakes in the friendly tearoom, or set off to explore town and countryside before your return (or evening!) out journey. Or explore the neighbouring town and park and take a later train back. Heritage railways are no longer just for train spotters. They’re now attractive days out for the whole family – and at attractive prices.

At the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway, just 25 minutes from Shrewsbury, of course there are the gleaming locomotives hissing with steam. But there are also comfortable carriages, with covered seating. Or if the weather’s fine, stand on the open balconies and watch the rolling hills, rushing rivers, green farmland and grazing sheep and cattle. Wildlife abounds too: spot the deer in Powys Estates, watch for heron at the Banwy Bridge and red kites or buzzards almost anywhere.

The railway offers a sensible 45-minute ride each way, just right for children. At the Llanfair Caereinion terminus, there’s a 40 minute to one hour turnaround for you to have lunch or tea

58 countysignpost.co.uk Where do the evenings come in? The railway Special Events in 2020 operates several evening fish and chips specials each season – they leave Llanfair Caereinion at Fun with the Easter Bunny, eggs to 6:30 pm and travel down to Welshpool where a 11 - 13 April spot along the line and more. choice of meals is served to eat on the return journey. There’s nothing like eating on a train as Fish and Chips Trains the scenery goes by. But these evenings often 24 May, Advance booking and menu sell out, so advance booking (and selection of 1 & 29 August selection essential. meals) is essential, on www.wllr.org.uk Welshpool Transport Festival 20 June And the price is right – the family ticket (travel & Evening Hogroast only) covers returns for four at just £34.50 – book discounted tickets on-line at 15 August Evening Hogroast www.wllr.org.uk, and it’s just £32.50 - great value to go with the great scenery. Annual Gala Weekend 4 - 6 Our biggest event of the year. Once you’ve sampled the Welshpool & Llanfair September Every operating engine out on Light Railway, you’ll also want to try the other show or in action. members of the Great Little Trains of Wales – Halloween Trains - Come in 31 October they’re a little further from Shropshire but costume, prizes for the best! they’re all different and well worth the trip. Full Santa Specials information on all of them (and how to get 5,6,12,13,19,20 & Always very popular! 21 December there by rail if you prefer), is on Advance booking strongly advised. www.bigtrainlittletrain.com 27, 29, 30 & 31 Mince Pie Special Trains December Telephone 01938 810441 Llanfair Station SY21 0SF Welshpool Station SY21 7LT www.facebook.com/WelshpoolSteamRailway

© Dan Abbott HAWKSTONE PARK FOLLIES

Days Out at Hawkstone Park

Hawkstone Park may have been the original “theme park” as it was laid out amongst the natural features of the North Shropshire landscape in the 18th Century by eminent members of the Hill family for the enjoyment of visitors to their family estate but eventually due to a lack of funds it fell into disrepair. In the 1980’s its historic importance was recognised and it was lovingly restored and opened to the public once again some ten years later.

These days Hawkstone Park is one of Shropshire's premier outdoor attractions and it offers an exciting day out for families which is a little bit different. The beautiful woodland Follies Adventure Park has hidden pathways, caves, secret tunnels, and a grotto, and from the top of the Monument it is said you can see twelve counties!

The walk which is about 3km can be quite strenuous but there are shorter routes for you to enjoy. Due to the terrain not all areas are accessible for those with mobility issues but if would still like to enjoy the Park and see the

60 countysignpost.co.uk views, then a Warden Safari is available for only a small extra cost. A season pass is available for local visitors which has an array of benefits such as free coffee and cake in the Café on certain dates. For more information on these or any of the services we offer within the Park, please call us direct on 01948 841777.

Come and enjoy a day’s exploration followed by a hot meal or afternoon tea, locally sourced, in our newly refurbished Caspian’s Café in the Visitor Centre which has plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.

If you are planning a full day out and live further way, the Hawkstone Park Hotel offers every comfort and all the facilities you would expect.

Of course Hawkstone Park also offers you the opportunity to play two of the finest Golf Courses in the West Midlands, and in addition we have the Short Course where you can play golf in an hour if you are a little short of time or want to bring the family. The driving range is open to visitors too.

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62 countysignpost.co.uk Please contact the Park directly or check the website for further information on prices, opening dates, times and exciting Days Out at Hawkstone Park. Events for 2020 include : 2020 Events Highlights

3rd May The Dog Show

2nd August Outdoor theatre production of David Walliams’ “Mr Stink”

19th September Boots & Roots Festival

24th October - 1st November Hawkstone Trails and Terrible Tales

27th November - 23rd December Santa Safari

Prices : Adult £8.75 Opening Times : (Full walk is approximately 3 hrs/6km) Concession £7.75 Child (5-15 years of age) £5.75 The park is open from 10.00 a.m. until Family 6 (2 adults x4 kids) £32.00 5.00 p.m. seven days a week from

15th February to 1st November

(last admission 3pm) Love the Follies - buy a season ticket, which gives unlimited entrance, tea room loyalty card

and fast pass access. Further information is available by calling Family 4 Season £78.00 01948 841777 or visiting : Adult Season £26.25 www.hawkstoneparkfollies.co.uk Child Season £17.25 63

Rays Farm is a perfect family day out. Meet a wide variety of animals and birds. Explore Ancient Woodland and follow the Wood Sculpture Trail.

Tea Room, Gift Shop and Play Areas. Ample hand washing facilities, baby changing and toilets. Free car park Special Offer* £2 OFF ALL ADMISSIONS (Max 4 people per voucher) *Valid until 31/10/20. Not for use with group bookings. Not valid with any other promotional offer. Valid only on presentation of this voucher.

8th Feb - 31st Oct 2020, 7 days a week T: 01299 841255 www.raysfarm.com Billingsley, Bridgnorth, Shropshire WV16 6PF 1