Tedsmore Lakes

As the park’s owners so wisely say, Shropshire is a countryside haven. See some of its best bits by moseying along the Montgomery Canal (around a 10-minute drive away) or ask about paddling on the water with the local canoe and kayaking club. You could also combine countryside wanders with arty pursuits by touring the Shropshire Sculpture Park (10 minutes) on the lookout for the Knife Angel. For a noisier day out, get to the go-karting track and paintballing activity centre in Rednal (five minutes’ drive); quieter times can be had while checking out Oswestry’s shops (20 minutes) or the medieval castle in Whittington (15 minutes). Not done with historical-themed ganders yet? Shuffle around Shrewsbury (half an hour), paying particular attention to the old buildings, or bob on the River Severn during a scenic boat ride.