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Mar 02
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Spring Fling: A Blooming Guide to Easter Adventures in and Around Shropshire

By Places to visit, Seasons

As spring breathes new life into the countryside, it’s time to embrace the season of renewal and joy. You may just be planning to spend your Easter break relaxing in your private hot tub, and chilling in your cosy lodge or treehouse. However, if you wish to get out and about, we’re thrilled to share a bouquet of exciting events just a stone’s throw away from you whilst staying at Woodland Park Lodges. Dive into the beauty of nature, discover local crafts, and create unforgettable memories with family and friends. Here’s a snapshot of what awaits you this Easter time:

1. Springtime Fun on the Farm at Frankley Alpacas

  • Date: March 25th – April 7th
  • Location: Just 38 miles away!
  • Highlights: Meet adorable lambs, newly born calves, and a friendly herd of alpacas. Enjoy bottle-feeding demonstrations, petting sessions, and countless photo opportunities.

Your Ticket Includes:

  • Lambs in the Old Barn
  • New Dexter cows in the Walled Garden
  • Alpaca meet and greet in the Triangle Field
  • Q&A sessions and plenty of selfie opportunities!

2. Oswestry Market Fun Day

  • Date: March 29th
  • Location: Only 11 miles away!
  • Attractions: Games, fun rides, donkeys, entertainment, face painting, and an exciting Easter egg hunt.

3. Homemade Easter Festival at British Ironwork Centre

  • Date: March 29th – 30th
  • Location: Just 11 miles away!
  • Discover: Local crafters, makers’ stalls, and a showcase of handmade delights.

4. Oswestry Artisan Market

  • Date: March 29th
  • Location: A short 11 miles away!
  • Explore: The best of local produce markets featuring a diverse array of goods.

5. Oswestry Late Night Market

  • Date: March 29th, 6-10pm
  • Location: Conveniently 11 miles away!
  • Experience: An evening of drinks, food, live music, and the vibrant atmosphere of a bustling market.

6. Oswestry Street Circus

  • Date: March 30th
  • Location: Just 11 miles away!
  • Witness: Dare-devil acrobats, mesmerizing magicians, and a day filled with circus magic from 11 am to 4 pm.

7. The Taste of Cheshire Food and Drink Festival

  • Date: March 30th – April 1st
  • Location: A short 27 miles away!
  • Indulge: Delight your taste buds with 150 exhibitors, celebrity chefs, and free cooking classes for both adults and children.

8. Meet the Easter Bunny at the Ice Cream Farm

  • Date: March 27th – April 9th
  • Location: Merely 22 miles away!
  • Enjoy: A meet-and-greet with the Easter Bunny, play on rides, explore attractions, and savour delicious ice cream.

9. Easter Historic Boat Gathering at National Waterways Museum

  • Date: March 29th – April 1st
  • Location: Just 35 miles away!
  • Experience: Witness a unique flotilla of historic narrowboats, led by a working boat-horse, Flower, pulling SATURN.

We wish you a wonderful Easter with us.

Jan 05
Love0

Shropshire Shines: A Proud Gem in the Global Spotlight

By Places to visit

In a remarkable accolade for the United Kingdom, Shropshire has emerged as one of the top 10 ‘destinations to watch’ in 2024, according to the travel company Abta. This recognition marks the first time any location in the UK has secured a spot on this prestigious list. Abta describes Shropshire as a ‘rural gem’ with ‘beautiful landscapes, towns, and villages,’ and here at Woodland Park Lodges, we couldn’t agree more!

Nestled within this globally acknowledged ‘rural gem,’ Woodland Park Lodges has always felt privileged to be situated in such a beautiful part of the world. Shropshire’s inclusion in the list reaffirms what we, and our guests, have known all along—the unrivalled beauty of Shropshire is a treasure waiting to be explored.

Shropshire is a blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Whether you are looking for picturesque hikes, historical landmarks or delicious food options, this wonderful county has you covered. Here are some a handful of our favourites.

  1. Ludlow: A Gastronomic Delight Ludlow, often referred to as the “food capital of Shropshire,” is a market town with a fantastic food scene. The charming streets are lined with independent shops, traditional pubs, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Don’t miss the Ludlow Food Centre, where you can indulge in locally sourced produce and artisanal treats.
  2. Ironbridge Gorge: Birthplace of the Industrial Revolution A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ironbridge Gorge is a testament to Shropshire’s pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution. Visit the Iron Bridge itself, the world’s first iron bridge, and explore the museums along the gorge, showcasing the area’s industrial heritage.
  3. Shrewsbury: A Medieval Marvel Shrewsbury, the county town of Shropshire, is a medieval marvel with its timber-framed buildings, cobbled streets, and historic architecture. Stroll along the River Severn, explore Shrewsbury Castle, and visit the Shrewsbury Abbey to soak in the rich history and cultural heritage.
  4. The Long Mynd: A Hiker’s Paradise For outdoor enthusiasts, the Long Mynd offers a haven of natural beauty. This heath and moorland stretch provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Hiking trails crisscross the landscape, offering both casual strolls and challenging hikes for all levels. Afterwards enjoy a soak in your own private hot tub to soothe those tired feet!
  5. Bridgnorth: Cliffside Charm Divided into High Town and Low Town by the majestic sandstone cliffs, Bridgnorth is a town with a unique character. Take the historic cliff railway between the two levels, explore the medieval architecture, and enjoy the views of the River Severn from the gardens.
  6. Carding Mill Valley: A Tranquil Retreat Nature lovers will appreciate the serene beauty of Carding Mill Valley. Located in the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this National Trust property is perfect for picnics, walks, and birdwatching. The Lightspout Waterfall is a hidden gem within the valley.
  7. Clun: A Quaint Village Escape Clun is a tranquil village that seems frozen in time. With its medieval bridge, historic castle ruins, and charming streets, it offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Clun Castle, perched on a hill, provides breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

So, pack your bags and head to Woodland Park Lodges, to enjoy all that Shropshire has to offer! 

Nov 06
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Shropshire’s Best Christmas Markets

By Places to visit, Things to do

Embrace the Christmas spirit and stay at Woodland Park Lodges to explore the best Christmas markets Shropshire has to offer. Enjoy wandering amongst the festive stalls, sipping on a hot chocolate or mulled wine, and join in singing Christmas carols. Once you are all shopped out, relax and warm up in your private hot tub, finishing the evening with a Christmas movie on the sofa in your cosy wooden lodge or treehouse.

Much Wenlock Christmas Fayre – 2nd December (Free)

Entertainment, performances and over 100 festive stalls. Enjoy the candle lit procession and carol signing from 16:30.

Apley Christmas Market – 18th & 19th November (Free)

Some of the county’s finest artisans and makers will be bought together again this year at Apley Christmas Market. With free tasters, a Christmas craft fair and hot chocolate bar!

Weston Park’s Christmas Food & Craft Fayre – 2nd & 3rd December (£5pp)

Enjoy over 100 artisan food and unique craft stalls. Explore the park and gardens, as well as the spectacularly decorated house. There is also a miniature railway for the children!

December in the Square, Shrewsbury – 9th December (Free)

Shrewsbury’s regular market come to life at Christmas time. Makers, bakers, artists and craftspeople sharing their beautiful products.

Late night at Shrewsbury Market Hall – 2nd December (Free)

Shrewsbury’s famous market hall offers a rare Christmas treat! With drool worthy street food, cool cafes, bars and more. A buzzing atmosphere and Christmas tunes are sure to get you in the spirit.

Jul 27
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The best walking routes – a guide to the beautiful routes around Ellesmere

The best walking routes – a guide to the beautiful routes around Ellesmere

By Places to visit, Things to do

During your stay at Woodland Park Lodges, you’re surrounded by the beautiful Shropshire countryside – a vast network of unexplored fields, magnificent meres bursting with natural beauty and alive with wildlife.

With so many different walks to choose from, we have highlighted some of our favourites below:

The Ellesmere Sculpture Trail

This enchanting walk interprets the landscape through sculpture. The trail takes you around all the sights of Ellesmere while visiting 27 pieces of art created by contemporary artists. Each piece is specifically made to reflect the history and heritage of the landscape around Ellesmere. The trail is a free and gentle walk that starts at Ellesmere Mere. At 46 hectares it’s the largest mere, surrounded by beautiful woodland, gardens and parkland and a play area for children. Remember to take some duck food to keep the ducks and geese happy!

Colemere Countryside site

Surrounded by mature woodlands, Colemere is one of Shropshire’s most beautiful meres. The walk is a winding woodland path stretching the circumference of the Mere with two attractive hay meadows. Colemere is a perfect habitat for wildlife, and because of this the site has several important designations; Local Nature Reserve, Site of Special Scientific Interest and RAMSAR Site. Many of these are due to the rare marginal wetland plants that grow around the edges of the Mere. For example, this is the only site in England where the rare Least Water Lily is found. This walk is suitable for wheelchair users and dogs.

Ellesmere Wharf and the Llangollen canal walk

Ellesmere stands on the banks of the charming Llangollen Canal. Starting at the Wharf in Ellesmere you can walk along the towpath passing by Blackwater Meadow Marina. With endless fields this is a pleasant corner of Shropshire countryside to explore.

Oteley Estate and Gardens

Explore the 10 acres of hidden garden at Oteley. Based around a beautiful privately owned house, the estate has been in the same family for over 500 years. 2,000 acres of arable land surrounds the estate, home to two stunning breeds of cattle, the Beef Shorthorn and Highland. The estate is open throughout the spring and summer months and is the perfect place to visit for a walk.

After a day of exploring all the local walks Ellesmere has to offer, why not have a soak in your hot tub and recharge those tired feet whilst overlooking our beautiful woodland? Book your stay here.