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Nov 29
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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
Love0

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.

Nov 28
Love0

The Best Places to Capture Instagram-Worthy Photos in Shropshire

By Places to visit, Things to do

Ah, Shropshire, a county so picturesque it’s like Mother Nature decided to show off after watching Countryfile. It’s the kind of place where even the most mediocre camera phone can produce shots worthy of an influencer’s giddy squeal. So, for those of you lugging around DSLRs the size of a small cow, or just armed with a smartphone and a dream of going viral, let’s dive into the most Instagram-worthy spots in this postcard-perfect slice of England.

1. The Wrekin: Nature’s Own Instagram Filter

If Shropshire were a rock band, the Wrekin would be its lead guitarist. This massive hill dominates the landscape and offers panoramic views that are so breathtaking, even your mum’s dodgy photography skills couldn’t ruin them.

Perfect for: “Hey, look at me, I climbed something!” posts. Bonus points if you time your visit for sunrise, when the sky turns a shade of pink.

2. Ludlow Castle: For Medieval Vibes (and Excellent Coffee)

Castles are basically the ancient equivalent of a selfie stick—built to grab attention and dominate the skyline. Ludlow Castle is no exception. Snap a photo of its towering ruins against a dramatic cloud-filled sky, and your followers will think you’ve wandered onto the set of Game of Thrones.

Tip: Head to the café inside the castle grounds. A flat white with a side of crumbling medieval architecture? Absolute gold for your story highlights.

3. Ironbridge Gorge: Where Engineering Meets Aesthetic Goals

Ironbridge isn’t just a bridge—it’s the bridge. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s basically Shropshire’s answer to the Eiffel Tower, only with fewer tourists and more charm. Take a wide shot from the riverside to get the full effect of its industrial grandeur. For an artsy twist, grab a close-up of the iron details and pretend you know about “composition.”

Hashtag it with: #HistoricVibes #IronAgeGoals.

4. Stiperstones: Rocks, Legends, and Drama

The Stiperstones ridge is wild, rugged, and unapologetically photogenic. The jagged quartz rocks have names like “Devil’s Chair,” which makes it even more Instagrammable because nothing screams engagement like a bit of folklore. Head up there during a moody overcast day for some dramatic photos.

5. Shrewsbury’s Quarry Park: Blooms and Bragging Rights

If your followers are the type who lose their minds over flowers and fountains, then Shrewsbury’s Quarry Park is your Mecca. The Dingle garden is an explosion of colour, designed by Percy Thrower, who was basically a gardening legend. It’s a haven for symmetry lovers and anyone who wants their feed to scream, “Look how cultured I am!”

6. Carding Mill Valley: All the Clichés, But in a Good Way

Mountains? Check. Waterfalls? Check. A stream where you can pose dramatically while pretending you’re pondering life? Oh, absolutely. Carding Mill Valley ticks every “nature retreat” cliché in the book, and that’s exactly why it works. The golden hour lighting here is so flattering you’ll wonder why you ever paid for studio shots.

7. Blists Hill Victorian Town: Steampunk Chic

This open-air museum isn’t just a history lesson; it’s an Instagram playground. Everything looks like it’s been dunked in sepia tone, so your photos will have that “olde worlde” vibe without needing a single filter. Pose in front of the vintage shops, or better yet, grab a top hat and a pint of ale for the full Victorian influencer experience.

8. Hawkstone Park Follies: For Fans of Hidden Wonders

This place is a labyrinth of quirky caves, bridges, and cliffs that look like they’ve been plucked from a fantasy novel. It’s so whimsical you half expect to bump into a wizard. Keep your camera ready for shots of the Swiss Bridge—a structure so precarious-looking it’ll have your followers questioning your life choices. It’s closed in the winter months but reopens again in the New Year.

9. Clun: Quaintness Overload

Clun is the kind of village that makes you want to quit your job, buy a cottage, and start selling homemade jam. Its stone bridge, riverside views, and ancient ruins are as charming as a Hugh Grant rom-com. A sunset shot here will have your feed drowning in heart emojis faster than you can say “countryside goals.”

10. Long Mynd: The ‘OMG, Are We in the Alps?’ Moment

Shropshire’s Long Mynd is so stunning it could make Switzerland jealous. Drive up to the top (yes, it’s cheating, but who cares?) for sweeping views that will make even the grumpiest of your followers pause their scrolling. Add a snap of your thermos perched on the bonnet of your car for maximum outdoorsy clout.

A Final Bit of Advice

Now, while all these spots are undeniably beautiful, remember this: your followers probably don’t care about the location. They care about you pretending to be deep and adventurous. So, slap on a hat, fake a wistful stare into the distance, and let Shropshire’s stunning scenery do all the heavy lifting.