There are definitely signs of Spring on the way this month and the days are slowly getting longer. However, the weather can still be very mixed; freezing cold and bracing one day, pouring down the next. So if you are thinking about visiting Shropshire this month, what are some good ideas of things to do?
Explore a Castle: Why not take a trip to one of Shropshire’s historic castles, such as Ludlow Castle and Stokesay Castle, for a journey through the region’s rich history. Open throughout the week, they make great places for families to go exploring and for kids to run off steam. They also both have cafes where you can warm up over a coffee and a slice of cake.
Spring Gardens: Experience the loveliness of spring in Shropshire by visiting gardens such as Attingham Park or Dudmaston House. Gardens begin to come alive at this time of year with beautiful displays of Spring flowers such as Snowdrops, Crocuses and Daffodils.
Walking and Hiking: Lace up your boots and explore Shropshire’s stunning countryside on foot. Pack a picnic and those all-important waterproofs and off you go. From gentle strolls along the Shropshire Way to challenging hikes up the Long Mynd or Stiperstones, there’s a trail for every level. Too cold for a picnic? Why not find a walk that starts and ends at a pub or café instead.
Market Towns: if the weather really is inclement, why not browse the bustling markets and charming shops in Shropshire’s market towns, such as Shrewsbury, Ludlow, and Bridgnorth, where you can find unique gifts, local produce, and artisan crafts.
Easter Egg Trails: Wanting to keep the kids entertained? This is the month to satisfy chocoholics young and old. Most National Trust houses lay on Easter Egg trails around their houses and gardens as do Stokesay Castle and Ludlow Castle.
Visit a Museum: Shropshire’s abundance of museums can make for a perfect day out whatever the weather. If it’s raining and you need to entertain the kids, what about a trip to Ingenuity or Coalbrookdale. If the weather is dry, Blist Hill makes a great day trip whatever your age.
Spring Wildlife: Take advantage of the longer daylight hours to go wildlife spotting in Shropshire’s nature reserves and countryside. Keep an eye out for nesting birds, newborn lambs, and other signs of spring awakening in the natural world.
Steam Train Rides: Step back in time with a nostalgic steam train ride on the Severn Valley Railway. Operating at weekends throughout March and then all week through the Easter holidays. A great option if the weather is not looking so good. Look out for special events through the holidays such as their Sparking Ester Afternoon Tea.
Music and Drama: Although not festival season, there is still much to entertain this month. Check out the jazz evening at Bill’s in Ludlow, enjoy a film in the Ludlow Assembly Rooms or visit https://guide2.co.uk/shropshire/ for a list of live music events in and around the county.
Stargazing: Cold days can mean clear spring nights, perfect for wrapping up warm, making up a flask of hot chocolate and venturing out for some stargazing in Shropshire’s dark sky areas. No fewer than 4 areas in the Shropshire Hills have been designated as Dark Sky Discovery Sites: Carding Mill Valley, Cross Dyke Car Park at Boiling Well, Pole Cottage, and Shooting Box Car Parks – all are National Trust car parks making them accessible to all.
These activities offer just a taste of the diverse experiences awaiting visitors to Shropshire in March, providing ample opportunities to explore, relax, and enjoy all that this beautiful county has to offer.