WATER, WHEELS & WILDLIFE

History and adventure make Shrewsbury an ideal getaway with teens

Shrewsbury eBike Hire BEST FOR: SEEING THE SIGHTS AT A GENTLE PACE

Set off on a self-guided tour of Shrewsbury on one of the town’s new e-bikes. Partly edging the River Severn and finishing at Flaxmill Maltings, the route is easy to follow with lots of stops along the way, including the Welsh Bridge, Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery and the Victorian-era Shrewsbury Prison, which closed in 2013 and is now open for tours.

It’s most suitable for ages 14-plus, but attachable trailers are available to hire for younger ones. shrewsburyebikehire.co.uk

Shrewsbury Market Hall BEST FOR: FOOD AND VINTAGE FINDS (AND GIN STOPS FOR THE ADULTS)

Situated in the centre of town, this was an innovative example of modern architecture when it opened in 1965, controversially replacing the old Victorian Market Hall in the process. Recent revamps mean it’s now home to more than 70 independent businesses, including traditional market stalls, kitsch cafes, artisan producers, craft shops and antique dealers. Swing by in the morning for breakfast at local favourite The Bird’s Nest cafe – the waffles and gourmet breakfasts are a must. shrewsburymarkethall.co.uk thebirdsnestcafe.co.uk

Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings BEST FOR: INSPIRING BUDDING ARCHITECTS

This was the world’s first iron-framed building when it was purpose-built in 1797 — a forerunner of the modern skyscraper. A new visitor centre and cafe in the main mill opened in September as part of a huge restoration project led by Historic England — it’s also the end point of the Heritage Trail e-bike tour. An exhibition explores how the building has grown and been repurposed over the years, including as a temporary army barracks in the Second World War. shrewsburyflaxmillmaltings.org.uk

Alderford Lake BEST FOR: MAKING A SPLASH

Hire a wetsuit and tackle the new Aquapark, with Ninja Warrior-style inflatable obstacles. Alternatively, pick up an Aquabike (literally a bike on the water), try the Mega Sup (a standup paddleboard for four) or find your way off the island in the new Escape Islands activity. This winter, Santa Island Experience returns for a second year running, along with a new undercover ice rink. alderford.com

Riverside Cabins BEST FOR: QUIET, SCENIC STAYS

Opened in 2020, Riverside Cabins is a rural collection of wooden pods and lodges on the wildlife-rich, wooded banks of the River Perry, a 20-minute drive from Shrewsbury. Cabins sleep between two and six guests and each come with their own hot tubs and firepits, as well as wi-fi and smart TVs. Try your hand at SUP and kayaking along the river, with equipment available to borrow on site or head off on a scenic walk to the natural quarry. From £135 for a minimum of two nights for a family of four. riverside-cabins.co.uk

Paddleboarders on Alderford Lake From top: Riverside Cabins; Shrewsbury Market Hall