Day 1 – Friday
Welcome to Shropshire! After you arrive tonight, take the time to unpack and prepare yourself for a fun week. Why not play a game from our games cupboard or watch a film on Netflix which is included with your stay.
Day 2 – Saturday
Take a 40-minute drive to visit Blists Hill Victorian Town, part of the Ironbridge World Heritage Site. The kids can have fun changing their pocket money into old-fashioned currency to spend at the sweet shop, and they can try some delicious traditional fish and chips. They can also explore the old shops, take a trip into the mine, and have a great time playing in the outdoor adventure area. During certain times of the year, there is a traditional fairground where children can enjoy rides and have fun.
Day 3 – Sunday
Visit Ludlow Castle and let your kids’ imaginations run wild as they explore the ruins and climb the towers. Additionally, there is a treasure hunt that they can participate in. Bring a picnic to enjoy and check out the seasonal activities at the castle.
Or head over to Monkey Mania, an indoor play centre where the kids can play; there is also a cafe, free Wi-Fi and seating for parents.
Day 4 – Monday
If you want a fun day out, consider heading to Mortimer Forest. If the weather is nice, it’s an excellent spot for a picnic, thanks to the abundance of picnic benches. There are several different walks to choose from, including a 1-mile loop suitable for prams, a 3-mile walk offering stunning panoramic views, and a longer 9-mile walk. Watch for deer; you might be lucky to spot one during your visit.
Day 5 – Tuesday
If the weather is glorious, check out the outdoor swimming pool at Highley – its about a 25 minute drive from the chapel and also has the Severn Valley Railway stopping nearby.
A great place to take the kids for some hands-on fun and science education is Enginuity, located in Ironbridge. The exhibits feature a variety of experiments and displays, from blast furnace demonstrations to water power exhibits. Remember to visit the Iron Bridge and get a picture while you’re there or enjoy an ice cream in the square.
If you have time to spare, why not visit Tar Tunnel, where you can see the walls oozing black tar.
Day 6 – Wednesday
Check to see if Acton Scott Heritage Farm has reopened – it is due to be taking visitors again this year – well worth a day out – www.actonscott.com.
If it rains during your visit, why not check out the Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre? There are loads of interactive exhibits to entertain the kids, plus a fantastic replica of a Shropshire Mammoth. There is an on-site cafe, or you can picnic outdoors. And if the weather clears up, be sure to take a stroll outside.
There is a fortified castle called Stokesay Castle nearby, which is a great attraction for children to explore. However, it may not be accessible for families with prams in certain areas.
When returning to the Chapel, consider making a pit stop at Ludlow Farmshop. The shop offers locally sourced produce and utilises nearby ingredients for their cafe. Additionally, there is a play area for children and an ice cream cabin to indulge in.
Day 7 – Thursday
Have you considered taking a ride on the Severn Valley Railway? The closest station is in Bridgnorth and provides the opportunity to travel all the way down to Kidderminster. On the way you can visit two exciting places – at Highley, you can visit the Engine House and see full-sized engines, interactive exhibits, and an outdoor play area. Alternatively, you could explore the beautiful Arley Arboretum at Arley, which features trails and activities for kids, a play area, and a maze.
If the weather is good tonight, why not consider having a BBQ? A gas BBQ is available at the chapel, which you could use to make the most of your final night there.
Day 8 – Friday
Oh no – time to go home! Our checkout is 11 am, so you have plenty of time to get ready to leave with the kids.
Depending on your direction of travel, consider fitting in a trip to Hoo Zoo & Dinosaur World, Rays Farm Country Matters, West Midlands Safari Park, Croft Castle (great playground), and Attingham Park.
Summary
There is so much to do in Shropshire we could quickly have filled two weeks with suggested activities! Please look at our Things to Do page for more ideas of things to do with the kids. St Milburga Chapel offers the perfect location for accessing so many different places and things to do.