Nestled amongst the lush rolling hills and valleys of Shropshire, you’ll find idyllic villages boasting historic timber-framed buildings, a 13th century medieval castle teeming with treasures, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ironbridge – the cradle of the Industrial Revolution. Experience some of England’s proudest heritage surrounded by diverse wildlife and discover beautiful Tudor and Georgian architecture in the county town of Shrewsbury and treasures in the beautiful neo-classical styled mansion of Attingham Park.
Tour Inclusions
Extras
The exact order of excursions will be included in your itinerary, which you should expect to receive approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure.
Based on a minimum of 30 members travelling. Should fewer travel the price will increase.
In a beautiful countryside setting of 15 acres of landscaped grounds, Albrighton Hall Hotel & Spa offers a relaxing retreat and all within easy reach of the historic town of Shrewsbury. Set within the walls of a stunning 18th-century manor house, the four-star hotel features 87 comfortable ensuite rooms that are light and airy and equipped with modern facilities including a TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The Oak Room Restaurant offers seasonal dishes and a relaxed atmosphere in a beautiful panelled dining room. There is also Bar 1630 which overlooks the beautiful grounds. Leisure facilities include a spa with heated indoor pool.
Dating back to the 11th century, Hellens Manor & Gardens is an ancient family home telling the story of England’s history. Grand interiors and treasures include heirlooms of Anne Boleyn, a bed chamber prepared for Queen Mary Tudor, the panelled Music Room and paintings by Gainsborough, Van Dyke and Goya. All surrounded by Tudor and Jacobean gardens to include a yew labyrinth, a physic garden and wonderful views of the Malvern Hills.
This impressive World Heritage Site is dominated by its namesake – the world’s first cast-iron bridge, built in 1779, is a marvel of modern construction. Explore some of the ten fascinating museums which include Blists Hill Victorian Town, Coalport China Museum and the Jackfield Tile Museum.
Considered one of the finest surviving fortified medieval manor houses in England, Stokesay Castle was built in the 13th century by Laurence of Ludlow, one of the richest men in England at the time. Step back in time and get a taste of medieval life, exploring the Great Hall, unchanged for more than 700 years; the North Tower, which boasts the original medieval tiled floor; and the 17th century timber-framed gatehouse, which features ornate carvings in its frame.
Herefordshire’s famous 'Black & White Villages, the county’s iconic villages and towns reveal some of the prettiest half-timbered architecture in England. Starting in Leominster, the circular trail traverses a richly rural landscape with stops along the way to see these characterful villages with tea rooms, art galleries and village shops.
Walk the medieval streets lined with charming Tudor timber-framed buildings, learning about Shrewsbury’s history from a knowledgeable local guide. The county town is famous for being the birthplace of Charles Darwin, and as a result of its border location, it served as a vital front in the medieval conflict between England and Wales.
Created for Noel Hill, the 1st Lord Berwick, Attingham Park is a 18th century estate with a beautiful neo-classical styled mansion surrounded with 200 acres of parkland. It houses a picture gallery designed by John Nash and an incredible collection of artefacts including Regency furniture, silver, paintings, porcelain and textiles. With a sense of space, the imposing entrance and expansive parkland showcases classical design and Italian influence. Enjoy exploring the vast organic walled garden, deer park and stop for a cup of tea at the charming Carriage House Café in the Stables Courtyard.
800 years old, St Lawrence Church features an incredible 15th century-stained glass window depicting the Ten Commandments, unfortunately only six remain. The Great East window is the largest stained-glass window in an English parish church. Medieval wall paintings survive around the church.
Ludlow is a bustling medieval market town with an incredible collection of timber-framed buildings and an architectural gem. The historic town centre and 11th century Ludlow Castle are located on a cliff above the River Teme surrounded by the beautiful countryside of south Shropshire and the Welsh Marches. The town’s museum tells its rich history and St Laurence’s Church is the largest parish church in Shropshire.
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