Stokesay Castle gates open for half-term
It is a step back in time to the days of swords and shields and bows and arrows for children at one of the county's most picturesque castles.
Youngsters of all ages are getting crafty at Stokesay Castle, near Craven Arms, this half-term week as the English Heritage site opens the gates of its impressive gatehouse for a school holiday of medieval-themed art activities.
The 13th-century fortified manor house is one of the best preserved in England, and attracts visitors year-round.
But the half-term activities are first of the season, which, along with the snowdrops starting to show at the castle, is a sure sign that spring is on its way.
Deb Wolton, site manager, said: "We always have events for children during the half-terms and school holidays.
"In the summer we have 'hands-on history' things like hobby-horse jousting, sword skills, medieval dancing and etiquette, that sort of thing.
"But this half term we have shield painting, calligraphy, torch and crown-making and stained glass windows activities. Because of the nature of the activities they're suitable for everyone from toddlers to young teens.
"It's just for the weekdays until Friday, we are open from 10am until 4pm but the children's activities are 10.30pm until 3.30pm."
Stokesay, with its 700-year-old great hall and pretty, 17th century timber-framed gatehouse, is actually not a defensive castle at all, but a fortified manor house.
But it is one of the earliest known examples of a wealthy businessman setting himself up as a country gentleman.
