Let’s get one thing straight: May is the best month of the year. Two bank holidays. Daylight after 6pm. The countryside bursting into life. If you’ve been counting down the days to escape the daily grind and recharge somewhere that doesn’t involve traffic lights, you’ll want to aim yourself directly at Woodland Park Lodges in Ellesmere, Shropshire.
This is not your average country break. This is the kind of break where birds sing, lakes shimmer, and you get to soak in a hot tub under a canopy of trees. It’s peaceful, it’s pretty, and it packs a lot of fresh-air brilliance.
1. The Mere: Like Windermere, But With Fewer Tour Buses
Ellesmere’s crown jewel is The Mere, a stunning natural lake so serene you’ll think you’ve stepped into a watercolour painting. Walk the circular trail, hire a rowing boat, or grab an ice cream and watch the ducks live their best lives.
It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone who fancies a break from screens and tower blocks. The views are spectacular, and there’s a good chance you’ll spot herons, swans, or even a kingfisher if you sit quietly enough.
2. Country Walks That Actually Make You Want to Walk
You don’t need to be Bear Grylls to enjoy a good walk through the countryside. In May, the bluebells are out, the air smells like spring, and the local trails around Ellesmere are a dream. Some are short and sweet, some are long and winding, but all of them come with that unbeatable smug feeling of “I’ve earned this pub lunch.”
Tip: Bring walking boots, or at least something better than fashion trainers. This is Shropshire and there are a lot of muddy fields at this time of year.
3. Woodland Park Lodges: The Country Retreat That Gets It Right
Set among towering trees and chirping birds, Woodland Park Lodges delivers peace and comfort by the bucketload. Each lodge is kitted out with proper beds (none of that camping nonsense), log burners, and-you guessed it – private hot tubs.
Whether you’re here with your other half, your kids, your mates, or just your dog and a bottle of wine, this is the kind of place that makes you instantly forget what your email password is. Bliss.
4. Pub Gardens, Pint Perfection & Plates of Joy
There is something utterly British about enjoying a pint in a pub garden in May. It’s warm enough to sit outside, the beer tastes better than it does at home, and the food? Proper. Local sausages, homemade pies, Sunday roasts that would make your nan proud.
Luckily, Ellesmere and the surrounding villages are full of cosy, welcoming pubs with great food and even better views. And no one judges if you order sticky toffee pudding and crumble.
5. May Events: Craft Fairs, Farmers’ Markets & Rural Charm
May brings out the best in Shropshire life. Local towns spring to life with events, markets, and a general buzz of “isn’t it great to be outside again?” Pick up fresh produce, handmade gifts, and maybe even witness some Morris dancing which, frankly, is worth the visit alone.
Shropshire has the kind of countryside charm that city breaks just can’t fake.
If you’re looking for the perfect way to spend your May bank holiday, Ellesmere is it. You’ve got nature. You’ve got luxury lodges. You’ve got the kind of peace and quiet that makes you forget how fast life usually moves.
Woodland Park Lodges isn’t just a place to stay. It’s a reset button in the woods, and May is when it all comes to life.
So go on, pack the walking boots, book your stay, and make this May one to remember.
