Leaton Wood

Shrewsbury is well worth a day’s visit with its shops, abbey, castle, market and parks. Another place that many visitors make a day of is Ironbridge Gorge (35 minutes’ drive). Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its importance in the birth of the Industrial Revolution, here you can see the world’s first ever cast-iron bridge and a recreated Victorian town at Blists Hill. For more top history hits within 20 minutes’ drive, wander the medieval and Elizabethan ruins at Moreton Corbet Castle, see the Regency mansion, parkland and gardens at Attingham Park and soak up the atmosphere at the ruined Haughmond Abbey. Outdoor activities are just as easily accessible with the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty about 35 minutes away by car. The lake at Ellesmere is good for a gentle walk and day out (plus there’s a large play area, which is always a bonus for those with kids). Or check out the unusual landscapes, both natural and man-made, at Hawkestone Park Follies (25 minutes’ drive).