SHROPSHIRE GARDENS

Gardens In Shropshire

Let your mind wander, as you meander through the gardens of Shropshire. There are plantsman's gardens and woodland walks, water gardens and national collections. A feast for the eyes (and nostrils), you could even steal a few good ideas along the way. Shropshire's gardens are not to be sniffed at (Oh yes they are!).

SHROPSHIRE ATTRACTIONS

Shropshire Attractions

P.G. Wodehouse described Shropshire as "the nearest earthly place to paradise" and he knew a thing or two. He also wisely set Blandings castle in this neck of the woods - at Weston Park to be precise but he could equally have chosen Attingham, Hawkstone Hall, or Powis Castle.

SHROPSHIRE EVENTS

Shropshire Events

Shropshire is ablase with events. There are big ones with fireworks and razzmatazz, small ones full of local colour and custom. There are arts, crafts, theatre and pageantry, and food events too. All designed to help you get a real taste of Shropshire life.

SHOPPING IN SHROPSHIRE

Shopping in Shropshire

Shropshire's shops are many and varied, with shops that other places let go of years ago. We advise you to padlock the piggy bank, cancel the credit cards and sew up your trouser pockets before you let temptation rip.

OUTDOOR PURSUITS IN SHROPSHIRE

Outdoor Pursuits

Or why not rise above it all? Several companies offer awe-inspiring balloon flights over the Shropshire countryside. Those who want to fly faster can try gliding, hand-gliding, parachuting and even powered flight - all with professional instructors who accept all levels of experience.

GOLF IN SHROPSHIRE

Golf in Shropshire

It's no accident that Sandy Lyle and Ian Woosnam learnt their game here, for Shropshire has some magnificent golf courses. There are now more than 30, including Hawkstone Park near Shrewsbury, which boasts two contrasting 18-hole championship courses, a 16-hole academy course, and a pretty fine 19th hole. That's a lot of holes.

WALKING IN SHROPSHIRE

Walking in Shropshire

For the walker, there are an astonishing 3,500 miles of footpaths. They criss-cross our hills, skirt our lakes and waterways, meander through our towns and countryside. Some, like Offa's Dyke, the Jack Mytton Way and the Mortimer Trail, have famous historical connections; others like the Severn Way, revel in nature's majesty.

RIDING IN SHROPSHIRE

Riding in Shropshire

For those who prefer four legs to two, the rider is admirably served with a vast network of bridleways. There are now more than 20 riding centres, catering for all levels of ability and age-groups, and you can jump, do dressage or hack to your heart's content. Tuition and summer camps for children are also available.

CYCLING IN SHROPSHIRE

Cycling In Shropshire

Cycling is one of the very best ways to soak up the Shropshire countryside and the county has developed a network of routes. They range from those suitable for families with children to the most experienced of pedal pushers.

FISHING IN SHROPSHIRE

Fishing in Shropshire

Fishing for pleasure, relaxation and sport. For the angler, there are plenty of places to cast your eye over and bait. Fast flowing rivers like the Severn, Teme, Tern and Perry as well as the slower Shropshire Union and Montgomery canals all offer a challenge.

SHROPSHIRE CANAL BREAKS

Shropshire Canals

Llangollen, Ellesmere, Whitchurch and Market Drayton are linked by Thomas Telford's canals. His two aqueducts rival the Roman masterpiece in Provence, the Pont du Gard. The waters of the Shropshire Union and Llangollen Canals which criss-cross the county offer splashing opportunities for great holidays and day-trips. Hollywood celebrity Harrison Ford has even been seen cruising our canals. The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, 126 feet above the River Dee is our own white-knuckle ride. You can even paddle your canoe on the river Severn - right under the Iron Bridge if you like.