The Mere in Ellesmere, Shropshire is a stunning natural lake surrounded by gardens, woodland, and wildlife. One of England’s largest glacial meres, it’s perfect for peaceful walks, picnics, and birdwatching.
Enjoy a bite at The Boathouse, the lakeside café, or let children play in the nearby park. With sculpture trails, seasonal events, and boat rides, The Mere offers relaxation and recreation for all—making it a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike.
 

Ellesmere is a picturesque town in North Shropshire, known for its peaceful charm, rich history, and scenic surroundings. At its heart lies The Mere—a beautiful glacial lake perfect for walks, wildlife spotting, and boat rides.
The town features historic streets, independent shops, cosy cafés, and traditional pubs, all set amid rolling countryside. With links to the canal network and Thomas Telford’s legacy, Ellesmere offers a relaxed blend of nature, heritage, and community spirit

Set on the Welsh border in North Shropshire, Oswestry is a lively market town rich in history, culture, and countryside charm. From the ancient Old Oswestry Hillfort to medieval streets and a thriving arts scene, the town blends heritage with creativity.
Explore independent shops, cafés, and galleries, or venture into the surrounding hills and trails for outdoor adventure. Whether you're walking Offa’s Dyke or relaxing in a cosy pub, Oswestry offers a warm welcome and a chance to unwind.
 

Llangollen is a charming town in North Wales, set along the River Dee and surrounded by hills. It’s home to the famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Llangollen Railway, offering heritage steam rides through stunning countryside.
With independent shops, cosy cafés, and canal-side walks, Llangollen blends natural beauty with rich history and culture.

Shrewsbury is a charming market town in Shropshire, set in a loop of the River Severn. Known for its medieval architecture, Shrewsbury Castle, and links to Charles Darwin, it blends heritage with vibrant culture.
Enjoy riverside walks, independent shops, and events like the famous Flower Show—all in a town full of character and charm.

Set in the rolling countryside of North Shropshire, Whitchurch is England’s oldest market town, known for its clock-making heritage, charming streets, and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can explore historic landmarks, browse antique shops, and enjoy local cafés and pubs.
Just outside town lies Alderford Lake—a scenic spot for wild swimming, paddleboarding, lakeside walks, and seasonal events. With its café, water activities, and open-air experiences, Alderford Lake adds a splash of adventure to Whitchurch’s timeless charm.

The British Ironwork Centre is one of Shropshire’s most distinctive attractions, combining a vast sculpture park with artisan metalwork, family activities and unique exhibitions. Visitors can explore hundreds of creative installations, browse the showroom, enjoy workshops, meet the resident craftsmen and relax in the on‑site café. Known for iconic pieces like the Knife Angel, the centre offers an inspiring and educational day out for families, art lovers and tourists visiting Oswestry and the wider Shropshire area.

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is one of the UK’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, carrying the Llangollen Canal high above the Dee Valley. Visitors can walk across the aqueduct, enjoy peaceful towpath routes, take a narrowboat trip and soak in spectacular views of the surrounding Welsh countryside. Its impressive engineering and dramatic height make it a must‑see attraction for walkers, families, photographers and anyone exploring North Wales and the Shropshire border.

Chirk Castle is a magnificent medieval fortress set on the Welsh–English border, offering centuries of history, beautiful gardens and family‑friendly walks. Managed by the National Trust, the castle features grand state rooms, a medieval tower, award‑winning gardens and sweeping views across the Ceiriog Valley. Visitors can explore woodland trails, enjoy seasonal events, discover the castle’s rich heritage and relax in the on‑site café. Perfect for families, history lovers and day‑trippers, Chirk Castle is one of North Wales’ most impressive and memorable historic attractions.

Park Hall Countryside Experience is one of Oswestry’s best family attractions, offering hands‑on farm fun, animal encounters and engaging indoor and outdoor play. Families can meet friendly farm animals, enjoy tractor rides, explore adventure play areas, discover the Victorian school and Welsh Guards museums, and take part in daily interactive activities. With seasonal events, soft play, countryside walks and plenty to do in all weather, Park Hall is a must‑visit day out for families visiting Shropshire and the Welsh border.

Ness Botanic Gardens is a beautiful horticultural attraction on the Wirral, known for its rare plants, colourful borders and peaceful walking trails. Set overlooking the Dee Estuary, the gardens feature glasshouses, seasonal displays, wildlife‑rich habitats and family‑friendly outdoor spaces. Visitors can explore themed gardens, enjoy year‑round events, join guided tours and relax in the café. Perfect for gardeners, families, photographers and nature lovers, Ness Botanic Gardens is one of the North West’s most inspiring and tranquil days out.

Attingham Park is one of Shropshire’s most popular National Trust attractions, featuring a grand 18th‑century mansion, a vast deer park and miles of scenic walking trails. Visitors can explore beautifully restored rooms, enjoy seasonal exhibitions, wander through walled gardens and spot the resident fallow deer grazing across the estate. With a large play field, family trails, a café and year‑round events, Attingham Park offers a perfect day out for families, walkers and history lovers visiting Shrewsbury and the surrounding area.

Chester Zoo is one of the UK’s most famous and beloved attractions, home to over 20,000 animals and world‑class conservation projects. Visitors can explore immersive habitats, from the Asian Forest to the African Savannah, enjoy daily animal talks, discover rare species and wander through beautifully landscaped gardens. With play areas, themed zones, cafés and year‑round events, Chester Zoo offers a full day of adventure for families, wildlife lovers and tourists. Its commitment to conservation and education makes it a must‑visit destination in the North West.

Powis Castle is a striking medieval fortress set above beautifully terraced gardens in the Welsh countryside.  Known for its rich history, dramatic architecture, and world‑class collection of art and artefacts, it offers visitors a blend of grandeur, heritage, and breathtaking views.  Whether exploring its opulent interiors or wandering the vibrant gardens, Powis Castle delivers an unforgettable experience.

Erddig Hall is one of Britain’s finest historic homes, celebrated for its beautifully preserved interiors, stunning gardens, and unique stories of the family and servants who lived there. A visit offers a rich blend of heritage, character, and immersive social history.

Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd offer sweeping Shropshire landscapes, dramatic hills, and peaceful walking trails. Known for their wildlife, open moorland, and far‑reaching views, they’re a favourite destination for outdoor adventure, relaxation, and exploring one of Britain’s most beautiful natural areas.

Oteley in Ellesmere is a picturesque estate overlooking the Mere, known for its beautiful grounds, artisan farm shop, and locally produced food and drink. It’s a peaceful countryside destination offering quality produce, scenic walks, and a warm, rural welcome.

Join the celebrations on Thursday 5th November 2026 for an unforgettable night of fireworks and festive fun. Last entry is at 7.45pm, then the magic begins with a dazzling firework display from 8pm, followed by a spectacular laser show lighting up the sky. Expect fire breathers and dancers bringing the heat, a live DJ stage keeping the energy high, street food and cocktails to enjoy, amusement rides, craft stalls, artisan bars and plenty more surprises throughout the evening.

Get ready for a dazzling night by the lake as Bonfire Night returns to Alderford on Saturday 7th November 2026. The evening begins with a 7pm sound‑sensitive fireworks display, perfect for those who prefer a gentler experience without losing any of the magic. At 8pm, the main firework show bursts into life, choreographed beautifully to music for a breathtaking moment over the water. A traditional bonfire will already be glowing as you arrive, setting a warm and festive atmosphere. Expect classic funfair rides and games for all ages, along with a mouth‑watering mix of food stalls serving hot drinks, sweet treats and hearty street food throughout the night.

Weston Park’s Bonfire & Fireworks Night returns on Sunday 8th November 2026, set in the sweeping historic parkland. Gates open from 3pm, with a giant bonfire glowing from 5pm to welcome you in. The first firework display bursts into the sky at 6pm, followed by a second spectacular show at 7.30pm, making it one of the Midlands’ biggest bonfire nights. Expect all the classic funfair thrills — waltzers, fun houses and rides for all ages — along with a vibrant food court wrapped around the bonfire. Gourmet burgers, loaded fries, fish and chips, freshly cooked sugared donuts, crepes, hot chocolate, coffee and winter warmers fill the evening with flavour. It’s a sparkling night out designed for families, friends and anyone ready for a magical autumn celebration.

Trefonen Fire Festival returns on Friday 6th November 2026, bringing the hills west of Oswestry to life with one of Shropshire’s most loved community bonfire nights. Gates open at 6pm as live music sets the tone, followed by the lighting of the towering village bonfire at 7.15pm, casting a warm glow across the valley. At 8pm, the fireworks finale fills the sky with a spectacular display that has become the highlight of the evening. Run entirely by volunteers, the festival blends tradition, community spirit and autumn magic — a night where neighbours, families and visitors gather for warmth, wonder and a celebration that keeps a centuries‑old village tradition alive.

Pumpkinfest returns to Park Hall Farm from 2nd October to 1st November 2026, filling the countryside with thousands of pumpkins and gentle Halloween fun. Every paying child can choose their own pumpkin from the huge indoor pumpkin shed, carve it on site and take it home - with all the mess left behind at the farm.  

Step inside Shrewsbury Prison after dark this October for a Halloween Ghost Tour that’s designed to test even the bravest nerves. Running on selected dates throughout the month — including 7th, 14th, 21st and 29th October, plus 1st November — each tour begins from 6.30pm and lasts around ninety minutes. Your guide leads you through the eerie Victorian wings, shadowy corridors and the chilling Execution Room, sharing real stories of paranormal encounters reported over the years. Strange footsteps, unexplained sounds and the infamous “Shadow Man” are all part of the prison’s haunted history, and you never quite know what might be waiting around the next corner. Expect sudden scares, atmospheric lighting, fog effects and actors who enjoy keeping guests on edge. It’s an intense, immersive experience recommended for ages 12+ and perfect for thrill‑seekers looking for a Halloween night with real bite.

Celebrate Halloween with a colourful twist as Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery hosts its Day of the Dead Family Fun Activity Day. Inspired by the vibrant Mexican tradition, the event invites families to enjoy creative workshops, bright sugar‑skull crafts and hands‑on art activities designed to spark imagination. Children can decorate their own Día de los Muertos masks, explore bold patterns and colours, and take part in themed make‑and‑take sessions throughout the day. The museum’s friendly team is on hand to guide little artists, making it a relaxed, joyful celebration of creativity. It’s a perfect half‑term outing for families looking for something fun, cultural and wonderfully different.

Halloween at Chester Zoo runs from 17th October to 1st November 2026, transforming the zoo into a colourful autumn adventure for families. Throughout your visit you can follow the playful Zoo vs You Top Trumps trail around Islands, discovering giant pumpkin sculptures and comparing your animal stats as you go. Complete the trail and you’ll take home an exclusive Top Trumps card as a souvenir. There’s themed face painting available, along with seasonal food and warming drinks dotted across the zoo. As you wander through the habitats, you’ll soak up the sights, sounds and colours of autumn while meeting incredible wildlife. All Halloween activities - including the trail and pumpkin displays - are included with standard zoo admission, making it a perfect October day out.