Tourist attraction gears up for another busy summer

Last year the lake and its cafe and woodland walks became an overnight honey pot as families flocked to the attraction for Covid-safe, outdoor activities.

Previously known only to local visitors and open water swimmers and kayakers from further afield, the lake soon became a busy visitor hub for the region.

Now as the Government's roadmap to reopening starts to kick in, Alderford is looking forward to reopening more of its attractions.

Kelly Lowe from Alderford said: "We are currently open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 9am until 3pm for walks, wildlife adventure and takeaways. Our farm shop is also open selling mainly local produce.

"From March 26 we will be open every day and then if everything goes to plan we will be restarting our open water swimming and self launch for kayaks, canoes and paddleboards from March 29.

"From April 12 we are very excited to be bringing in a brand new, eight-person 'aquapark'.

"We have been busy planning for our summer season, something we weren't able to do last year as we never expected to be so popular. We will be introducing a booking system for getting into or onto the water and we will have new, open air changing cubicles and more toilets."

Kelly said there would also be a lakeside kitchen and said that business markets should return on April 18.

"Last year the success of Alderford had an amazing effect on the local economy as people realised what a wonderful facility we have here in north Shropshire. We have heard from bed and breakfast establishments that they have had enquiries and booking for people keen to have a break close to the lake."