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Mar 31
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Things to Do in Spring in Shropshire 2026

By Places to visit, Seasons, Things to do

Spring is when Shropshire really comes into its own. The countryside surrounding Woodland Park Lodges begins to shift, trees soften into green, wildlife returns, and the longer days make it easier to slow down and enjoy the outdoors.

Staying in a lodge at this time of year means you’re perfectly placed to experience both the peaceful side of Shropshire and the lively events happening throughout April and May 2026.

Explore the Shropshire Hills on Your Doorstep

One of the biggest advantages of staying at Woodland Park Lodges is just how close you are to some of Shropshire’s best landscapes.

Spring is ideal for getting out into the hills. The Wrekin offers one of the most rewarding walks in the county, while Wenlock Edge provides quieter woodland routes that are perfect for a slower pace. At this time of year, you’ll start to see wildflowers appear and hear the countryside come back to life.

If you’re visiting in April, the Shropshire Way 80K Festival (18th April 2026) is a great way to experience these landscapes in a more organised setting, with routes suited to different abilities. Even if you’re not taking part, the atmosphere across the county is noticeable.

Enjoy Relaxed Days in Parks, Gardens and Around Your Lodge

Spring stays at Woodland Park Lodges are as much about slowing down as they are about exploring.

Nearby places like Attingham Park are in full bloom during April and May, offering that classic English countryside feel. Around Easter, many attractions host seasonal trails and family-friendly activities, making it a great time for a relaxed day out before heading back to your lodge.

But often, the best moments are closer to home, sitting outside your lodge in the evening light, enjoying the quiet surroundings, or taking a short walk through nearby woodland without needing to travel far.

Make the Most of Longer, Brighter Days

With milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, spring is perfect for spending time outdoors from morning through to evening.

From Woodland Park Lodges, you can easily plan a day that mixes activity and relaxation. A morning walk, an afternoon exploring local towns, and an evening back at your lodge to unwind.

In early May, the Ironbridge Gorge Walking Festival (2nd–10th May 2026) is a standout event nearby, offering guided walks that combine history with scenic routes, ideal if you want to explore without needing to plan every detail yourself.

Discover Shropshire’s Towns in Spring

Spring also brings a different energy to Shropshire’s towns.

Shrewsbury is just a short journey away and is always worth exploring, especially as cafés, markets and independent shops spill out into the streets in warmer weather. In early May, the town hosts LOOPFEST (1st–3rd May 2026), turning multiple venues into a live music experience that adds a real buzz to the area.

Ludlow is another must-visit during your stay, particularly in May when the Ludlow Spring Festival (8th–10th May 2026) brings together food, drink and live entertainment in a unique historic setting.

Add a Festival or Event to Your Stay

One of the best ways to make your spring break feel a little more memorable is to tie it in with a local event.

Early May is packed with options. The Green Man Festival in Clun (3rd–4th May 2026) offers something more traditional and community-focused, while later in the month the Shropshire County Show (23rd May 2026) delivers a full countryside experience with food, agriculture and entertainment.

The beauty of staying at Woodland Park Lodges is that you can dip into these events during the day, then return to a calm, private space in the evening.

Slow Down and Take in the Season

What really makes spring special here isn’t just the big days out, it’s the quieter in-between moments.

Early mornings with birdsong, blossom appearing along walking routes, and those longer evenings where you don’t feel rushed to go inside. It’s the kind of environment that naturally helps you switch off.

Whether you’re travelling as a couple, family, or just looking for a break from routine, the setting around Woodland Park Lodges makes it easy to enjoy Shropshire at your own pace.

Why Stay at Woodland Park Lodges in Spring 2026?

Spring offers the perfect balance. The countryside is at its freshest, the events calendar is full, and it’s still quieter than the peak summer months.

Staying at Woodland Park Lodges puts you in the middle of it all — close enough to explore, but far enough away to properly relax.

Final Thoughts

A spring break in Shropshire isn’t about rushing from place to place. It’s about enjoying where you are — whether that’s out in the hills, wandering through a market town, or back at your lodge with nothing planned at all.

With so much happening across April and May 2026, and the natural beauty of the season all around, there’s no better time to experience it from Woodland Park Lodges.

Nov 29
Love0

Christmas in Shropshire 2025: A Magical Winter Escape

By Places to visit, Seasons, Things to do

If you’re dreaming of a festive break filled with twinkling lights, historic market towns, cosy pubs and scenic winter walks, Shropshire is one of the UK’s best Christmas destinations. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure or a peaceful lodge break at Woodland Park Lodges, Christmas 2025 in Shropshire will be magical.

Here’s your guide to the very best festive experiences across the county.

Festive Markets & Christmas Shopping

Shrewsbury Christmas Market (Early–Mid December 2025)

Set within medieval streets lined with Tudor buildings, Shrewsbury’s Christmas market is a must-visit. Expect:

  • Artisan gifts
  • Local food & drink
  • Handmade decorations
  • Live performers & carols

The town’s independent shops also make it perfect for unique Christmas presents.

Ludlow Christmas Craft Market

Held in the stunning grounds of Berwick House this event includes:

  • Woodland Craft Trail
  • Traditional craft stalls
  • Festive food and drink
  • Meet Santa in his grotto

A magical, atmospheric evening out.

Spectacular Christmas Lights & Festive Trails

Attingham Park Winter Wonderland

The National Trust’s Attingham Park transforms each year with:

  • Illuminated gardens
  • Festive installations
  • Light tunnels
  • Seasonal storytelling

Perfect for a festive evening stroll wrapped in scarves and hot chocolate in hand.

Weston Park Enchanted Christmas Lights

Expect magical woodland lighting, glowing sculptures and family-friendly festive scenes. Great for children and even better for Instagram.

Victorian Christmas at Blists Hill

A seasonal, family-friendly festive event at Blists Hill Victorian Town (Shropshire), where the site transforms into a Victorian-era Christmas wonderland from 3rd December through Tuesday 23rd December 2025.

  • Stroll through cobbled streets and historical buildings decorated Victorian-style.
  • Two themed Christmas trails for children (under 7s and 7+), each ending with a gift.
  • A pop-up toy shop and gift emporium, ideal for unique presents.
  • Live festive music (choirs & brass bands), seasonal food & treats on site.
  • Dramatic performances of A Christmas Carol and other Christmas stories in the venue’s theatre.

Family-Friendly Festive Days Out

Santa at Park Hall Countryside Experience

A big local favourite, offering:

  • Meet Santa sessions
  • Elf village
  • Festive tractor rides
  • Christmas craft barns

Brilliant for young families staying at the lodges.

Severn Valley Railway Santa Trains

Take a nostalgic steam train through frosty Shropshire landscapes, meet Santa on board, and enjoy seasonal treats. A special Christmas memory for all ages.

Winter Walks Through Stunning Shropshire Countryside

Shropshire is famous for its peaceful landscapes — and they’re even more breathtaking in winter.

Wyre Forest

Frost-covered trails, towering pines and occasional deer sightings create a picture-perfect Christmas walk.

Carding Mill Valley & The Long Mynd

If you’re up for a winter hike, this dramatic landscape offers sweeping views and crisp, refreshing air.

Llynclys Common & The Shropshire Hills

Just a short drive from Woodland Park Lodges — ideal for a Boxing Day stroll.

Festive Food & Cosy Christmas Dining

Shropshire’s food scene shines at Christmas. Top places to enjoy seasonal menus in 2025 include:

The Pheasant Inn, Trefonen

A warm country pub offering hearty festive classics.

Ludlow’s Gourmet Scene

Ludlow’s award-winning eateries will offer Christmas tasting menus, local game dishes, artisan cheeses and Shropshire’s famous puddings.

Local Farm Shops

Perfect for stocking your lodge with festive essentials:

  • Ludlow Food Centre
  • Battlefield Farm Shop (near Shrewsbury)

Look for mulled wine kits, local cider, chutneys, handmade biscuits and festive treats.

Christmas at Woodland Park Lodges

Imagine waking up on Christmas morning surrounded by tranquil woodland, crisp winter air and birdsong. Guests can enjoy:

  • Cosy lodge interiors with festive touches
  • Hot tubs under star-filled December skies
  • Woodland walks straight from the doorstep
  • Space to unwind, cook, play board games and switch off
  • Access to the best Christmas attractions across Shropshire

It’s the perfect blend of peaceful escape and festive adventure.

Mar 28
Love0

Spring Escapes: What to Expect at Woodland Park Lodges in April

By Places to visit, Seasons

Nature, birdsong, and not a motorway in sight.

Let’s be honest. Winter was grim wasn’t it? Then along comes April, with birds singing, trees growing things again, and a bit of warmth in the air.

So what can you do in the season when nature starts waking up? You escape. You head somewhere with fresh air, trees, and absolutely no emails. You come to Woodland Park Lodges!

Trees. Flowers. And More Trees.

You know spring has arrived when the ground suddenly decides to become a carpet of colour. At our lodge park, the bluebells don’t mess about. By late April, they’re in full force, looking like someone’s accidentally spilled a tin of blue paint over the forest floor.

You’ll also see primroses, wood anemones, and celandines popping up, trying to outdo each other in the woodland beauty contest. Trees like oaks and silver birches are waking up too, stretching their branches and throwing a bit of green around.

Basically, if you’ve been stuck staring at beige office walls, this is nature’s way of saying: “Here, have a hug.”

Wildlife Doing Its Thing

Shropshire isn’t just sheep and tractors. It’s a full-blown wildlife paradise – especially in April. Around the park and nearby Ellesmere, you might spot:

  • Red kites and buzzards soaring overhead
  • Woodpeckers tapping away in the trees
  • Nuthatches and long-tailed tits flitting between branches
  • Hares darting through open spaces
  • The odd deer occasionally seen near the edge of the woodland
  • And if you’re very quiet (and very lucky), a badger or fox more active in the warmer weather (especially at dawn and dusk)

If you head down to The Mere, you’ve got a decent shot at seeing herons, grebes, and even the occasional otter.

Walking Without Wi-Fi (and That’s a Good Thing)

Now, I know the idea of “walking” might sound suspiciously like effort – but trust me, this is different. There are trails here where you don’t have to dodge traffic, trolleys, or people filming TikToks.

You’ve got:

  • The Ellesmere Sculpture Trail – nature and art pretending to get along
  • Colemere Country Park – peaceful, pretty, and not a soul trying to sell you anything
  • Parts of the Shropshire Way – proper countryside walking with proper countryside views

Or if you’re feeling lazy, just wander straight from your lodge. Woodland. Birds. Breeze. It’s like therapy, but free.

Lodges Built for Doing Nothing (Perfectly)

And after a day of looking at birds and pretending you know what a celandine is, you’ll want somewhere to sit or lie down and relax. That’s where the lodges come in.

Set among the trees, they’re warm, cosy, and blissfully quiet. You’ve got a sofa, a kettle, and – in some – a hot tub. Yes, a steaming tub of water in the woods.

Wake up to birdsong. Drink wine on the decking. Soak in the tub while looking at the stars and thinking, “This is infinitely better than being stuck on the M6.”

Escape While You Can

April doesn’t hang about. One minute it’s daffodils, the next it’s sunburn. So pack a bag, leave the chaos behind, and get yourself to Woodland Park Lodges.

👉 Book your escape now

Because let’s face it – you deserve it.

Feb 21
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Spring Adventures: Things To Do near Woodland Park Lodges

By Advice, Places to visit

 

As the cold grip of winter gives way to blooming flowers and warmer days, Shropshire transforms into a haven of springtime beauty and activities. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or family adventurer, this charming county offers something for everyone. Here are some of the top things to do in Shropshire in spring 2025.

1. Explore Shropshire’s Glorious Gardens

Spring is the perfect time to visit Shropshire’s renowned gardens as they come alive with vibrant blooms and lush greenery. Highlights include:

  • The Dorothy Clive Garden: Famous for its stunning spring displays of rhododendrons, azaleas, and daffodils.
  • Attingham Park: Enjoy a peaceful walk through its walled garden and vast parkland, bursting with spring colors.
  • Hodnet Hall Gardens: A hidden gem featuring tranquil pools, woodlands, and an array of flowers in full bloom.

Tip: Pack a picnic and spend the day soaking in the serene atmosphere.

2. Take a Scenic Hike

Shropshire’s rolling hills and picturesque landscapes are a hiker’s paradise, especially in spring. Top trails to explore include:

  • The Long Mynd: A sprawling heathland perfect for spotting wildlife and enjoying panoramic views.
  • Stiperstones National Nature Reserve: Known for its unique rock formations and rare flora.
  • The Shropshire Way: Choose from sections of this long-distance trail to experience the county’s best scenery.

Pro Tip: Bring a pair of binoculars for birdwatching—spring is prime time for spotting migratory birds.

3. Visit Historic Market Towns

Shropshire’s market towns are full of charm and history. Spend a day exploring:

  • Ludlow: Known for its medieval castle, food markets, and independent shops.
  • Shrewsbury: Wander through its cobbled streets, admire the half-timbered buildings, and enjoy a boat trip on the River Severn.
  • Bridgnorth: Split into High Town and Low Town, this historic town offers scenic cliff railway rides and riverside walks.

Local Highlight: Spring is a great time to catch farmers’ markets featuring fresh, local produce.

4. Discover Shropshire’s Castles and Heritage Sites

Step back in time with a visit to Shropshire’s historic landmarks. Must-visit sites include:

  • Stokesay Castle: A beautifully preserved medieval manor house.
  • Powis Castle: Famous for its dramatic gardens and impressive architecture.
  • Ironbridge Gorge: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, perfect for a spring day out with museums, walks, and river views.

Fun for Families: Look out for Easter-themed events and activities at these heritage sites during the spring holidays.

5. Enjoy Springtime Events

Spring 2025 is packed with events and festivals to celebrate the season. Keep an eye out for:

  • Shrewsbury Flower Show (Spring Edition): A spectacular showcase of horticultural displays and gardening inspiration.
  • Ludlow Spring Festival: A weekend of delicious food, craft beer, and live music.
  • Easter Egg Hunts: Many local attractions host family-friendly Easter events, perfect for kids of all ages.

Bonus: Check local calendars for pop-up farmers’ markets, craft fairs, and outdoor theater performances.

6. Experience Tranquility at Woodland Park Lodges

After a day of exploring, unwind in the comfort of Woodland Park Lodges. Nestled in the heart of Shropshire, our lodges are the perfect base for your spring adventures. Relax in your private hot tub, enjoy the surrounding woodlands, and wake up to the sound of birdsong.

Special Offer: Book your spring 2025 stay early to secure the best dates and enjoy exclusive discounts.

Plan Your Spring Adventure

With its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant events, Shropshire in spring is a destination like no other. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or family fun, there’s something here for everyone. Start planning your spring 2025 escape today!

Ready to book? Click here to check availability and secure your stay.

Jan 29
Love0

Exploring Shropshire’s Castles with The Kids This Half-Term

By Places to visit, Things to do

A guide to Ludlow Castle, Stokesay Castle, and Whittington Castle

Half-term will soon be upon us. The children will be off school again, the house is will once again become a war zone, and you’ll be seconds away from Googling “Is it legal to sell children on eBay?”

Before you resign yourself to a week of endless snacks, Peppa Pig or The Next Step on repeat, there is a solution.

Castles.

Yes, instead of a half-term of boredom and destruction, why not book a stay at one of our holiday lodges or treehouses and from here set off in search of some proper medieval ruins? Shropshire, conveniently, is packed with castles.

So here’s where to take the kids for an adventure fit for a knight in Shropshire.

Ludlow Castle – The Big Daddy of Shropshire Castles

Ludlow Castle isn’t just a castle; it’s the castle in Shropshire. It’s big. It’s dramatic and it was once home to royalty, Ludlow Castle is a sprawling ruin where kids and even some adults can run wild, pretending they’re knights, princesses, or medieval warlords . There are towers to climb, dungeons to peer into, and enough crumbling walls to make a health and safety officer faint.

Need-to-Know Info:

Location: Castle Square, Ludlow SY8 1AY
Opening Times: Open daily, 10 am – 4 pm (check website for seasonal variations)
Entry Fee: Yes (see website)
Parking: Available nearby in Ludlow town centre
Nearby Eats: Ludlow is full of fantastic pubs, bakeries, and cafés. Go fancy with The Church Inn or grab a legendary sausage roll from The Ludlow Food Centre.

Stokesay Castle – The Fairy-Tale Fortress

If Ludlow Castle is the big, brooding warrior of the Shropshire castle scene, Stokesay Castle is its charming, polite younger cousin. Less of a fortress and more of a fortified manor house, it looks like something from a storybook.

The timber-framed gatehouse is ridiculously pretty, and inside the great hall, you half expect a medieval banquet to start (sadly, it doesn’t). The best part? It’s small enough that kids can explore without you losing them.

Need-to-Know Info:

Location: Nr Craven Arms, SY7 9AH
Opening Times: Open daily during half-term, 10 am – 4 pm
Entry Fee: Yes (see website)
Parking: On-site (small charge applies)
Nearby Eats: The Stokesay Inn in Craven Arms does excellent pub grub, and there’s a Costa if you need an emergency caffeine fix.

Whittington Castle – A Part- Restored Castle with a Proper Moat

Whittington Castle has one crucial feature that makes it an instant winner with children: a moat. Moats are brilliant. They make everything better. Just imagine if your house had a moat – you’d never have to worry about unwanted visitors again and your own pair of swans to gaze at.

The castle itself is smaller and more ruined than Ludlow or Stokesay, but what it lacks in intact walls, it makes up for in vibes. There’s a proper bridge to over the moat to walk across, towers to explore, and even local legends of ghosts and secret tunnels.

Need-to-Know Info:

Location: Castle Street, Whittington, Oswestry SY11 4DF
Opening Times: Open daily, 9 am – 4 pm
Entry Fee: Free! (Donations welcome)
Parking: On-site car park that charges but there are places to park free in the village.
Nearby Eats: The adjacent tea room serves cakes, snacks, and a proper pot of tea. Alternatively, The White Lion pub or the Boote inn are just a few minutes walk away.

So if you want a proper medieval adventure, Ludlow Castle is the one. If you prefer something a bit more refined (but still grand), go for Stokesay Castle. And if you’re after a fun, budget-friendly option with a moat, Whittington Castle is perfect.

So, pack up the kids, grab some snacks, and head out on a half-term adventure. Because, let’s be honest, anything is better than being stuck indoors listening to “Mummy, I’m boooored” on repeat.