50 great days out in Shropshire and Mid Wales: 31-40
Continuing our pick of 50 great days out in Shropshire and Mid Wales.
31. West Midland Safari Park - Why not venture just over the county border into Bewdley for a trip to the West Midland Safari Park? A baby African Cape Buffalo, born just last month, is among the many hundreds of animal attractions. Thrill seekers can also head to the white-knuckle rides on the theme park.
32. Chirk Castle - A stark symbol of power, Chirk Castle was completed in 1310 during the reign of the conquering Edward I to subdue the last princes of Wales.
With more than 700 years of history, it is the last castle from this period still lived in today, and its lavish interior and 480 acres of parkland will keep the whole family occupied for hours on end.
33. Bridgnorth - There is plenty to do in Bridgnorth, from sitting in the sunshine on the banks of the River Severn, to hunting for bargains in the bustling High Town market. Take a ride on the cliff railway and explore the wonderful gardens around the castle, where the tower leans at 15 degrees, four times the tilt of the leaning tower of Pisa.
34. Telford Town Park - With its water play area, aerial ropes course and mini-golf, Telford Town Park has fun for all the family. And while you are there, why not hire a bike and take a ride down the Shropshire Way? There are even electrically assisted bikes for those who fancy something a little less strenuous.
35. The Wrekin - Take a walk up The Wrekin. Arguably Shropshire's best known landmark, a curious legendary hill that rises from the flatness of the surrounding countryside and can be seen from miles around. At 1,335ft above sea level, it towers over Ironbridge and Telford, and the reward for scaling this mini-mountain is a breathtaking view, which encompasses 15 counties on a clear day.
36. The Mere - The Mere at Ellesmere was created at the end of the last Ice Age, when a huge chunk of ice melted to form a lake around 60ft deep. Surrounded by Victorian gardens, woodland paths and an historic castle, the site is a very important place for wildlife, attracting many different water and wading birds.
37. Severn Valley Country Park - Get back to nature at Severn Valley Country Park, which offers 126 acres of beautiful countryside and stunning views spanning both sides of the longest river in the country. The woodlands, ponds and meadows are full of many species of plants and animals, some of which are quite rare.
38. Powis Castle - Standing high on a rock, Powis Castle stands dramatically above its surrounding gardens, overhung with clipped yew trees. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of the rich and powerful Herbert family, taking a walk through the state rooms and discovering its fine collection of artwork and decoration.
39. Judge's Lodging, Presteigne - Step into the 1870s at the award-winning Judge's Lodging at Presteigne, where visitors can discover the world of a most unusual household. Explore the 'upstairs, downstairs' life of the Victorian judges, their servants and criminally inclined guests.
40. Weston Park - Weston Park, near Shifnal, is the Earl of Bradford's ancestral home, set in 1,000 acres of Capability Brown parkland. Built in 1671 by Lady Elizabeth Wilbraham the House contains an internationally important art collection whilst outside visitors can take a walk through award winning gardens, lakes and follies.
There are also loads of great ideas for summer holiday fun at our entertainment and lifestyle site NativeMonster.com