South Shropshire is one of those places that surprises people. They arrive expecting quiet countryside and leave having done more than they planned.
From medieval castles and vineyard tours to paragliding above ancient hills, here's what's on your doorstep when you stay at Shropshire Shepherd's Huts.
Kerry Vale Vineyard
Near Bishops Castle · Wine tasting and lunch
One of the most unexpected things to do in South Shropshire is visit an English vineyard, and Kerry Vale is a genuinely lovely one. A family-run vineyard set in the rolling hills near Bishops Castle, they offer guided wine tasting tours between May and September. In the winter months the vineyard is still open for wine tasting and lunch, so there's a reason to visit whatever time of year you come. A brilliant afternoon out with views to match the wine.
Paragliding on the Long Mynd
Church Stretton · 30 minutes from the huts
The Long Mynd is one of the finest paragliding sites in England, and on a clear day watching pilots launch off the ridge is a spectacle in itself. If you've always wanted to try it, Leavesley Aviation near Bishops Castle offer taster sessions. One of the more memorable things you can do in Shropshire.
Stokesay Castle
20 minutes from the huts · English Heritage
One of the best-preserved medieval fortified manor houses in England, Stokesay Castle is a 20-minute drive from the huts and completely worth it. English Heritage manage the site and it's free for members. The great hall dates from the 13th century and the setting, surrounded by open countryside, is beautiful.
Ludlow
30 minutes from the huts · Castle, food and markets
Ludlow is one of the finest market towns in England. A proper town with a castle, independent shops, a brilliant food scene and a market that's been running for centuries. It's 30 minutes from the huts and easily a full day out. If you go, book lunch at Csons.
Bishops Castle
10 minutes from the huts · Markets, music and culture
Bishops Castle is a historic market town with a character that's genuinely hard to find anywhere else. It has unique independent shops, cafes worth seeking out (the Poetry Pharmacy is one of a kind, and Happy Bap has a great garden for sunny days), open studios, arts festivals and a cultural calendar that punches well above its size. It's also home to The Three Tuns, one of the oldest working breweries in England, brewing since 1642. Between May and September expect live music throughout the town, with a regular Sunday session at 5pm at The Bells. Throughout the rest of the year there's still plenty going on.
Walks, Wild Swimming and the Best Pubs
If you want to go deeper on any of those, we've put together guides on the best dog-friendly walks near Bishops Castle, our favourite wild swimming spots in South Shropshire, and the top pubs for eating within easy reach of the huts.
Dog-friendly walks near Bishops Castle →
Wild swimming spots near Bishops Castle →
Top pubs for eating near Bishops Castle →
Oak Hut and Olive Hut put you right in the middle of all of this. Everything above is within half an hour of your door.
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