Alice & Arthur's guidebook
Things to do
Renowned as amongst one of the finest gardens in the country. Sixty acres of brilliantly coloured flowers, magnificent forest trees and formal gardens planted to give delight during every season, woodland walks amongst flowering shrubs and a daisy chain of ornamental pools.
15 mins. Opening times - Gardens open 11am-5pm every Sunday, Wednesday and Bank Holiday Monday up to Sunday, 26th September 2021.
13 moradores locais recomendam
Hodnet Hall Gardens
Renowned as amongst one of the finest gardens in the country. Sixty acres of brilliantly coloured flowers, magnificent forest trees and formal gardens planted to give delight during every season, woodland walks amongst flowering shrubs and a daisy chain of ornamental pools.
15 mins. Opening times - Gardens open 11am-5pm every Sunday, Wednesday and Bank Holiday Monday up to Sunday, 26th September 2021.
Woodland fantasy of caves and cliffs where paths twist and turn, rise and fall, and almost without fail reveal something unexpected around every corner: dramatic cliffs, towers, monuments, tunnels and passageways! Would strongly recommend it for both adults and children
20 mins. Opening times - 10am - 5pm (last admission at 3pm)
44 moradores locais recomendam
Hawkstone Park Follies
Woodland fantasy of caves and cliffs where paths twist and turn, rise and fall, and almost without fail reveal something unexpected around every corner: dramatic cliffs, towers, monuments, tunnels and passageways! Would strongly recommend it for both adults and children
20 mins. Opening times - 10am - 5pm (last admission at 3pm)
Just outside of Market Drayton. Fordhall Organic Farm is the first community owned farm in England. Demonstrating that small-scale farming connected to the local community offers a viable way of life for generations to come.. Open year round to the public, offering a picnic area and nature trail, organic cafe, farm shop and group tours.
10 mins. Open: Tuesday - Saturday: 9.30am-5pm. Sunday: 10am-4pm
13 moradores locais recomendam
Fordhall Farm
Tern Hill RoundaboutJust outside of Market Drayton. Fordhall Organic Farm is the first community owned farm in England. Demonstrating that small-scale farming connected to the local community offers a viable way of life for generations to come.. Open year round to the public, offering a picnic area and nature trail, organic cafe, farm shop and group tours.
10 mins. Open: Tuesday - Saturday: 9.30am-5pm. Sunday: 10am-4pm
The Trentham Estate has many attractions in one. Be inspired by the show gardens including award-winning gardens from RHS Chelsea and RHS Tatton Flower Show. You can take a woodland walk round around the Capability Brown designed mile-long lake. See if you can spot the enchanting fairies and giant dandelion sculptures. Get active in the adventure playground or get lost in the hide-and-speak maze. Also a shopping village with 77 timber lodges housing amazing Shops, Cafés and Restaurants.
30 mins. Opening times - 9am - 8pm
74 moradores locais recomendam
Trentham Estate
Stone RoadThe Trentham Estate has many attractions in one. Be inspired by the show gardens including award-winning gardens from RHS Chelsea and RHS Tatton Flower Show. You can take a woodland walk round around the Capability Brown designed mile-long lake. See if you can spot the enchanting fairies and giant dandelion sculptures. Get active in the adventure playground or get lost in the hide-and-speak maze. Also a shopping village with 77 timber lodges housing amazing Shops, Cafés and Restaurants.
30 mins. Opening times - 9am - 8pm
Enjoy a unique experience for everyone where you can walk amongst two families of wild Barbary macaques roaming free in 60 acres of beautiful Staffordshire Forest and is the only place in Britain to do so!! With no need to book in advance, simply arrive on the day for a hassle free trip out with your group.
30 mins. Opening times: Feb to November, 10am-5pm
70 moradores locais recomendam
Trentham Monkey Forest
Enjoy a unique experience for everyone where you can walk amongst two families of wild Barbary macaques roaming free in 60 acres of beautiful Staffordshire Forest and is the only place in Britain to do so!! With no need to book in advance, simply arrive on the day for a hassle free trip out with your group.
30 mins. Opening times: Feb to November, 10am-5pm
Striking 17th century country house, set in 1,000 acres of stunning Capability Brown styled gardens and parkland. Also art gallery, deli and restaurant. Events throughout the year. 30 mins.
Opening times - The Park & Gardens open from 10.30am – 6pm with last admission at 3pm
38 moradores locais recomendam
Weston Park
Striking 17th century country house, set in 1,000 acres of stunning Capability Brown styled gardens and parkland. Also art gallery, deli and restaurant. Events throughout the year. 30 mins.
Opening times - The Park & Gardens open from 10.30am – 6pm with last admission at 3pm
Visit the Emma Bridgewater factory in the heart of the Potteries. Take a factory tour or decorate your own pottery then relax for lunch in the kitchen cafe and finally visit the gift shop. 35 mins.
Opening times - Monday - Saturday 9.30am-5pm, Sunday and Bank Holidays 10am-4pm
39 moradores locais recomendam
Emma Bridgewater Factory
Lichfield StreetVisit the Emma Bridgewater factory in the heart of the Potteries. Take a factory tour or decorate your own pottery then relax for lunch in the kitchen cafe and finally visit the gift shop. 35 mins.
Opening times - Monday - Saturday 9.30am-5pm, Sunday and Bank Holidays 10am-4pm
Middleport Pottery is an exciting visitor destination in the heart of Burslem, the Mother Town of the Potteries. World famous Burleigh pottery has been created here using traditional methods since 1889. Visitors step back in time to explore the Visitor Centre which comprises Victorian offices, historic collections, bottle kiln and mould store – and learn about the people and events which have shaped the pottery.
35 mins. Opening times - Wednesday - Sunday 10am-4pm, Bank holiday 10am-4pm
17 moradores locais recomendam
Middleport Pottery
Port StreetMiddleport Pottery is an exciting visitor destination in the heart of Burslem, the Mother Town of the Potteries. World famous Burleigh pottery has been created here using traditional methods since 1889. Visitors step back in time to explore the Visitor Centre which comprises Victorian offices, historic collections, bottle kiln and mould store – and learn about the people and events which have shaped the pottery.
35 mins. Opening times - Wednesday - Sunday 10am-4pm, Bank holiday 10am-4pm
Set within a beautiful farm courtyard Snugburys offers a range of luxury ice cream with handmade ingredients all made on the farm. You can wonder down with your ice cream to see the 40 ft bee sculpture and meet a couple of friendly pigs and goats on your visit. Arthur rates this as the best ice cream he’s tasted.
35 mins. Opening times - Monday - Sunday 9.30am - 6.00pm
20 moradores locais recomendam
Snugburys Ice Cream
A51Set within a beautiful farm courtyard Snugburys offers a range of luxury ice cream with handmade ingredients all made on the farm. You can wonder down with your ice cream to see the 40 ft bee sculpture and meet a couple of friendly pigs and goats on your visit. Arthur rates this as the best ice cream he’s tasted.
35 mins. Opening times - Monday - Sunday 9.30am - 6.00pm
One of Shropshire’s top attractions, the Ironbridge Gorge is known throughout the world as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. Nowadays the area is far from industrial. Most of the factories are long gone and the natural beauty of the Gorge has been restored.
40 mins.
27 moradores locais recomendam
Ironbridge Gorge Civil Parish
One of Shropshire’s top attractions, the Ironbridge Gorge is known throughout the world as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. Nowadays the area is far from industrial. Most of the factories are long gone and the natural beauty of the Gorge has been restored.
40 mins.
Part of the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust group and one of the most popular attractions in Shropshire – a fantastic living outdoor museum where all the staff dress in period costume. Visit a host of restored Victorian buildings, shops, factories, schools to name just a few. Events for the whole family throughout the year.
40 mins. Opening times - 12th April - 16th May: Saturday and Sunday, 10am - 5pm
75 moradores locais recomendam
Cidade Vitoriana de Blists Hill
Legges WayPart of the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust group and one of the most popular attractions in Shropshire – a fantastic living outdoor museum where all the staff dress in period costume. Visit a host of restored Victorian buildings, shops, factories, schools to name just a few. Events for the whole family throughout the year.
40 mins. Opening times - 12th April - 16th May: Saturday and Sunday, 10am - 5pm
National Trust: Magnificent 18th century mansion and deer park. Visit the fully restored rooms and enjoy extensive woodland walks. Deer feeding (seasonal) and lots of special events throughout the year. Excellent family day out!
40 mins
Opening times vary throughout the year, but is generally 9am - 5pm everyday.
52 moradores locais recomendam
Parque Attingham do National Trust
National Trust: Magnificent 18th century mansion and deer park. Visit the fully restored rooms and enjoy extensive woodland walks. Deer feeding (seasonal) and lots of special events throughout the year. Excellent family day out!
40 mins
Opening times vary throughout the year, but is generally 9am - 5pm everyday.
The Wrekin is an iconic Shropshire hill located near Telford. The wooded ridge offers a challenging but manageable climb and beautiful natural surroundings. Very popular with walkers and fantastic views from the summit. Can get very busy, especially at weekends.
40 mins
57 moradores locais recomendam
The wrekin
The Wrekin is an iconic Shropshire hill located near Telford. The wooded ridge offers a challenging but manageable climb and beautiful natural surroundings. Very popular with walkers and fantastic views from the summit. Can get very busy, especially at weekends.
40 mins
From the delights of over 50 award winning and irresistible Real Dairy Ice Creams & Sorbets to ‘Crazy Daisy’s’ amazing indoor Adventure Play Barn, Country Kitchen. Well worth a visit if you have young children.
45 mins
Opeing times - Monday - Sunday 10am - 5pm
41 moradores locais recomendam
A Fazenda de Sorvete
Newton LaneFrom the delights of over 50 award winning and irresistible Real Dairy Ice Creams & Sorbets to ‘Crazy Daisy’s’ amazing indoor Adventure Play Barn, Country Kitchen. Well worth a visit if you have young children.
45 mins
Opeing times - Monday - Sunday 10am - 5pm
Unique ‘upstairs downstairs’ property, most interesting are the kitchens, laundry, bake house stables, sawmill & smithy used by the servants. The stunning staterooms display most of their original 18th & 19th century furniture. The large walled garden has been restored to its 18th century formal design.
50 mins. Opening times vary throughout the year but is generally open 10-5 everyday.
70 moradores locais recomendam
National Trust - Erddig
Unique ‘upstairs downstairs’ property, most interesting are the kitchens, laundry, bake house stables, sawmill & smithy used by the servants. The stunning staterooms display most of their original 18th & 19th century furniture. The large walled garden has been restored to its 18th century formal design.
50 mins. Opening times vary throughout the year but is generally open 10-5 everyday.
With over 35,000 animals and 125 acres of zoological gardens to explore, you will never be bored at Chester Zoo! Chester Zoo is the most visited zoo in the UK and a conservation and education charity committed to preventing extinction. Whether you’re a budding conservationist, or wanting a memorable family day out, or just love seeing thousands of our exotic species, there is something for everyone at Chester Zoo.
1 hour. Opening times - Times vary throughout the year, but the zoo is generally open between 10am - 4pm and requires booking prior to arrival.
227 moradores locais recomendam
Zoológico de Chester
Moston RoadWith over 35,000 animals and 125 acres of zoological gardens to explore, you will never be bored at Chester Zoo! Chester Zoo is the most visited zoo in the UK and a conservation and education charity committed to preventing extinction. Whether you’re a budding conservationist, or wanting a memorable family day out, or just love seeing thousands of our exotic species, there is something for everyone at Chester Zoo.
1 hour. Opening times - Times vary throughout the year, but the zoo is generally open between 10am - 4pm and requires booking prior to arrival.
Pubs & Restaurants
Top rated restaurant on Tripadvisor for Market Drayton. (British/European food)
5 mins drive/25 minute walk
01630 657344 or 07429 496777
The Town House
36 Cheshire StreetTop rated restaurant on Tripadvisor for Market Drayton. (British/European food)
5 mins drive/25 minute walk
01630 657344 or 07429 496777
Serves pub food and adjoins Joule’s brewery
5 mins drive/ 20 minute walk
01630 652602
10 moradores locais recomendam
The Red Lion Inn
Great Hales StreetServes pub food and adjoins Joule’s brewery
5 mins drive/ 20 minute walk
01630 652602
Serves classic pub food overlooking the Shropshire Union Canal
10 mins drive/ 1hr walk along canal
01630 661226
7 moradores locais recomendam
The wharf tavern
Serves classic pub food overlooking the Shropshire Union Canal
10 mins drive/ 1hr walk along canal
01630 661226
7 Course tasting menu (£40). Also open for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. Would advise booking in advance. Would highly recommend!
10 mins drive/ 1hr 10 mins mostly along the canal.
01630 661202
Goldstone Hall Hotel
Goldstone Road7 Course tasting menu (£40). Also open for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. Would advise booking in advance. Would highly recommend!
10 mins drive/ 1hr 10 mins mostly along the canal.
01630 661202
The Hinds Head
Main RoadFamily run village pub and restaurant
10 mins drive
01630 695555
Country pub and restaurant (Arthur's personal favourite)
20 minute drive
01948 871223
17 moradores locais recomendam
The Combermere Arms
Country pub and restaurant (Arthur's personal favourite)
20 minute drive
01948 871223
Bar and restaurant with great food (Alice's favourite)
20 minute drive
01270 660111
11 moradores locais recomendam
The Boars Head
2 Vernon StBar and restaurant with great food (Alice's favourite)
20 minute drive
01270 660111
Another bar/restaurant with amazing food
25 minute drive
01952 739048
6 moradores locais recomendam
The Red House
Wellington RoadAnother bar/restaurant with amazing food
25 minute drive
01952 739048
Takeaways
Open 4.30-10.30 pm. Closed on tuesdays
01630 658383
Foodshion Garden Chinese & Thai Restaurant Takeaway
15 Cheshire StreetOpen 4.30-10.30 pm. Closed on tuesdays
01630 658383
Pickles Indian Restaurant and Takeaway
14 Shropshire StreetOpen 5.30 - 11 pm
01630 478649
Domino's Pizza - Market Drayton
24 Queen StreetOpen 11am - 11pm
01630 656656
Neighbourhoods
Market Drayton is a traditional Shropshire market town with origins dating back to before the Domesday book. The Wednesday street market dates back over 750 years. The streets of Market Drayton have much historic character with a mix of half-timbered, Georgian and Victorian buildings. The streets converge on The Buttercross market shelter and on Wednesdays are filled with market stalls. The spring water here is excellent for beer and a fine tradition of brewing is continued today by Joules. Their purpose built brewery in the town centre supplies great ales to pubs around northern Shropshire and borders. Market Drayton is also known as the home of Gingerbread which has been baked in the town for over 200 years. The town sits by the Shropshire Union canal about a mile from Tyrley Locks where a flight of five locks make this one of the most interesting sections of the canal.
Town amenities include; swimming pool/gym, post office, numerous supermarkets, banks and a whole host of other local shops (including Fields Kitchen farm shop, which we highly recommend)
11 moradores locais recomendam
Market Drayton
Market Drayton is a traditional Shropshire market town with origins dating back to before the Domesday book. The Wednesday street market dates back over 750 years. The streets of Market Drayton have much historic character with a mix of half-timbered, Georgian and Victorian buildings. The streets converge on The Buttercross market shelter and on Wednesdays are filled with market stalls. The spring water here is excellent for beer and a fine tradition of brewing is continued today by Joules. Their purpose built brewery in the town centre supplies great ales to pubs around northern Shropshire and borders. Market Drayton is also known as the home of Gingerbread which has been baked in the town for over 200 years. The town sits by the Shropshire Union canal about a mile from Tyrley Locks where a flight of five locks make this one of the most interesting sections of the canal.
Town amenities include; swimming pool/gym, post office, numerous supermarkets, banks and a whole host of other local shops (including Fields Kitchen farm shop, which we highly recommend)
City/town information
Birthplace of Charles Darwin, Shrewsbury is one of England’s finest medieval market towns. The town has over 600 listed buildings including the Castle and the Abbey. Relax in beautiful Quarry Park or take a boat trip on the River Severn. The historic centre is a shopper’s heaven packed with designer shops, smart new malls and an amazing range of independent retailers. And of course all the bars, cafes, restaurants and you could ever wish for. 40 mins drive
244 moradores locais recomendam
Shrewsbury
Birthplace of Charles Darwin, Shrewsbury is one of England’s finest medieval market towns. The town has over 600 listed buildings including the Castle and the Abbey. Relax in beautiful Quarry Park or take a boat trip on the River Severn. The historic centre is a shopper’s heaven packed with designer shops, smart new malls and an amazing range of independent retailers. And of course all the bars, cafes, restaurants and you could ever wish for. 40 mins drive
The ancient city is a truly breathtaking experience. Each chapter of Chester's history is etched into the very fabric of the city. Walk where Roman Legionaires marched to war, Viking raiders wreaked havoc and Norman invaders conquered Anglo Saxons. Chester has the most complete city walls, the oldest racecourse and the largest Roman Amphitheatre in Britain, plus a 1000 year old Cathedral with Europe's finest example of medieval carvings - and of course the one and only 700 year old Rows galleries where shopping is a double delight. 1 hour drive
335 moradores locais recomendam
Chester
The ancient city is a truly breathtaking experience. Each chapter of Chester's history is etched into the very fabric of the city. Walk where Roman Legionaires marched to war, Viking raiders wreaked havoc and Norman invaders conquered Anglo Saxons. Chester has the most complete city walls, the oldest racecourse and the largest Roman Amphitheatre in Britain, plus a 1000 year old Cathedral with Europe's finest example of medieval carvings - and of course the one and only 700 year old Rows galleries where shopping is a double delight. 1 hour drive