Shropshire to Snowdonia
Take a road trip to Shropshire this spring, and you’ll find an amazing collection of different attractions. The M54 brings you to Telford, a short drive from Ironbridge, which hit the headlines recently because of severe flooding. Ironbridge is famous for its museums and historic landmarks. Blists Hill Victorian Town was open despite the floods, as was Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron, Enginuity and The Furnace Kitchen. Other attractions include the Derby Houses, the Pipe Museum and the Iron Bridge itself. If you’re looking for somewhere to eat, our favourite is the Severn Gorge Carvery in Telford, which offers a great meal for around a fiver.
Continue west towards Shrewsbury, where attractions include St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury Museum, Shropshire Regimental Museum, Battlefield 1403 and the Quarry Park and Dingle. Every August the Shrewsbury Flower Show is held in Quarry Park, offering a full weekend of family entertainment.
Travel south to Church Stretton, where you’ll find the incredible Shropshire Hills, Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd. Stay at the Long Mynd Hotel if you’re feeling flush, taking advantage of the pool and bar. Nearby attractions include Ludlow Castle, the Severn Valley Railway, Oswestry Ironworks Centre and Erddig, a National Trust property.
Just over 30 miles from the Shropshire border are the glorious mountains of Snowdonia. Follow the A458 for a scenic journey into the beautiful Welsh countryside, and go walking in the Snowdonia National Park. Climb Mount Snowdon if you’re feeling energetic, or take the mountain railway if you’re not! Another popular mountain, Cadair Idris, lies at the southern end of the National Park, and this one’s not too hard if you’re fairly fit. We took the Pony Path to the top, where there’s a shelter and lots of lovely views. It takes 3-4 hours.