EXPLORE THE AREA
There is so much to do and see in Shropshire and we are only a couple of miles from the Welsh border – we’ve picked out a few ideas below
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IN BISHOP'S CASTLE
For a laid back morning we particularly enjoy a mooch around the shops at the top of town, calling into Simpsons or the Poetry Pharmacy to browse the books, cards and gifts, checking into the Town Hall to see the latest exhibition and rounding this off with a coffee or lunch in the garden at the Happy Bap. If you are interested in local history take the Town Tour with a local guide, visit the House on Crutches museum or follow the trail of the 40 Lost Pubs of Bishop’s Castle. If you love beer don’t miss the legendary Three Tuns Brewery – if you book ahead you can arrange a brewery tour (with tasting) but you need a head for heights. On sunny afternoons stop for a drink or afternoon tea in the gardens at the Castle Hotel with stunning views across the town or head out for a walk along the Shropshire Way. The town is rightly famous for its music and festivals including the incredible Michaelmas Fair each September. As new events are announced we will update this page.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Many of our guests come to explore the Shropshire Hills on foot or by bike. Don’t be surprised to find it is hilly.
Walking: Bishop’s Castle is on the Shropshire Way and just a few miles from Offa’s Dyke Path. If you fancy a challenge you could start working through the list of 50 great Shropshire Hills Both the Long Mynd and the Stiperstones are particular Shropshire highlights but there are many quieter spots around the Clun Valley. We recommend “Clun valley & borders: 33 favourite walks” available from Shropshire Great Outdoors but we have some well thumbed copies you can borrow. Serious walkers should be equipped with OS Explorer maps 216 and 217 – but again we have copies you can borrow. For a combination of history and exercise we recommend visiting Mitchell’s Fold - the bronze age stone circle on Stapeley Common followed by a steep hike to the top of Corndon. Or explore Bury Ditches – the amazing Iron age hill fort dated to around 500 BC. Both walks offer the reward of 360 degree views and are only a short drive from Bank House.
Hardier types might relish some wild swimming in the rivers and secret pools dotted through the hills. The reservoir at Carding Mill Valley and the River Teme in Ludlow are popular spots.
Shropshire offers some fantastic routes for road cyclists and mountain biking including family friendly routes. The Long Mynd Motivator is a 20 mile route from Bishop’s Castle but a flatter 13 mile option is available. There are great resources for cyclists here.
PLACES TO VISIT
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Visit Ludlow for the market, the castle and to wander the streets of this beautiful town. The annual Ludlow Food Festival is a particular highlight.
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Take a trip to Ironbridge for the amazing array of museums, Blists Hill Victorian Town and to enjoy the scenery around the bridge and Gorge.
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Book a workshop at Acton Scott Historic Working Farm which specialises in keeping traditional crafts alive or just go to see the heavy horses and baby animals.
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Powis Castle and Gardens are a highlight year round. This is our favourite National Trust property and just a short drive across the border in Wales. Other National Trust properties are available
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Mad about steam? Visit the Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway. or the Severn Valley Railway from Bridgnorth. Or plan your visit to the magnificent Shrewsbury Steam Rally over the August Bank Holiday (but sadly not running in 2021).
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Enter Bishop’s Castle’s Tandem Triathlon - a mad mix of serious lycra and fancy dress – held each year in late June/ early July.
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Take the bus (or drive) to Shrewsbury to explore the medieval streets, shop at the indoor market (the UK’s favourite) and enjoy the museums and craft fairs. The Shrewsbury Flower Show in August sees the whole town come out to play with great music, fireworks, food and, of course, flowers. Check here to plan your visit to Shrewsbury
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Stokesay Castle near Craven Arms is another gem in the English Heritage crown and don’t forget Wroxeter Roman City
ACTIVITIES AND WORKSHOPS
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Take a linocut printmaking masterclass with Bishop's Castle artist Drusilla Cole - or just call in to browse the collection of prints for sale
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Visit Oriel Glass Studio to take a stained glass workshop (or to commission Helen to make something beautiful for your home).
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Moor Hall in Newcastle on Clun is the home and studio of textile artist Bobby Britnell. An inspired teacher, Bobby runs a series of short courses involving a number of guest tutors each year.
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A short drive over the hills to Clun and on to Knighton will bring you to Hammer and Tack the upholstery workshop run by Thomas Clough. Tom specialises in traditional upholstery and runs weekly classes and week long workshops which are always well subscribed.
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If you visit the Long Mynd you will find the Midland Gliding Club perched high on the Burway. The Club offers short courses and first flight vouchers as well as year round tuition.
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Fancy trying clay pigeon shooting? Minsterley Ranges​ is open to individual and groups year round and will provide all the equipment and tuition.
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Learn to make wonderful bread with Kath at the Veg Patch Kitchen Cookery School near Ironbridge.
STAY IN TOUCH
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CONTACT
Bank House, 4 High Street, Bishop's Castle,
Shropshire, SY9 5BQ
