The South Shropshire Hills form one of the most beautiful and unspoilt
areas of the country. We mention some of the attractions, but
there are many more. At night, there is the lowest level of light
pollution in England
(Campaign to Protect Rural England)
and so the stars are stunningly vivid. There is very little evidence
of commercialism - the nearest burger outlet is about ten miles away!
But for those who like simple pleasures the area around
Quilmore is a delight.
Bike Trails
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The entrance to
Hopton Bike Trails
is one and a half miles from Quilmore.
There are 32 kilometres of forest track for off road cycling and mountain
biking. Routes are colour coded. There is a relatively easy family track,
intermediate tracks, and tracks designed for expert bikers. The route from
Quilmore to Hopton is along a quiet country lane.
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Walking
The area is renowned as wonderful hill walking country.
We have a folder of detailed walks starting at or near Quilmore and
you are welcome to a copy of this. We also have books and booklets
of walks in the area. Local long distance footpaths include
the Shropshire Way,
Jack Mytton Way,
Offa’s Dyke Way
and
Glyndwr’s Way.
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Offas Dyke Centre
The Offa’s Dyke Centre
at Knighton is a very well presented exhibition of
the turbulent history of the border region between England and Wales.
Offa’s Dyke runs close by.
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Heart of Wales line
Described as one of the most scenic railway lines in the U.K.
the Heart of Wales line
goes through mid wales and offers a feast of panoramic views and fascinating
small towns. Bill Bryson called it 'sensationaI' (Sunday Times 14-12-03).
The train can be caught at Hopton Heath station, about three miles from
Quilmore.
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Clun
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Clun
has its Green Man festival once a year celebrating the fertility
of the seasons. Street theatre, stalls, exhibits, and much merriment
take place. The town has its own museum, two excellent pubs, cafes,
shops, and the castle. There are two antique shops, the one featuring
art exhibitions by local artists. All in all, a lovely place to wander
and take time out.
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Bishops Castle
The town of
Bishops Castle
has many quaint buildings with
traditional shops. Here are art and craft and book shops. The real
ale festival in the Summer is a worthy celebration for a town which
is famous for brewing its own beer
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Museum of Popular Culture
The Land of Lost Content
is the National Museum of British Popular
Culture. It is in Craven Arms. A visit will bring back memories of
everyday artefacts of yesteryear. Also in Craven Arms is the
Secret Hills Discovery Center
depicting the natural history of the Marches.
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Ludlow
The town of Ludlow has been described as one of the jewels of England with
many perfectly preserved medieval buildings, a market, theatre,
and many interesting shops.
Ludlow Festival
features a highly regarded
Shakespeare production in the castle along with many other top rated
productions. Ludlow's eating places range from simple cafes to Michelin
starred restaurants.
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Judge's Lodging
The Judge's Lodging
is an award winning historic house in Presteigne.
The building has been stunningly restored and its history presented
in a fascinating manner. The town itself has real charm and was
recently included in the ten best places to live in Britain. It has
a Festival of Music and the Arts each Summer.
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Stokesay Castle
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One of the best preserved medieval manor houses in Britain is
Stokesay Castle.
Visitors enjoy an informative tape-recorded commentary.
Re-enactments of medieval scenes take place on bank holidays.
[Photo © www.castlewales.com]
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Bury Ditches hill fort
Bury Ditches
is a pre-historic hill fort. There are well marked walks round
it, and stunning views.
Caer Caradoc hill fort
Caer Caradoc
is an iron age hill fort about three miles from Quilmore.
As well as being interesting historically it provides a lovely - if strenuous -
hill walk.
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Castles
There are several castles. One of the best is
Ludlow Castle.
with its magnificent ruins of the inner bailey.
Also of
interest is
Clun Castle,
which is on a very picturesque site. The ruins of
Hopton Castle,
have a blood soaked history! It is about a mile or so along the lane
and can be viewed from the road.
Wigmore Castle
is also impressive.
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Clunton Coppice
Clunton Coppice
is a wood about a mile from Quilmore. It is a site of special scientific
interest managed by Shropshire Wildlife Trust. It has
numerous sessile oak and rare fauna. It is described by the trust as
an all season wood which is wonderful at any time.
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Ancient churches
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The churches of the area are some of the most beautiful and interesting
in any rural location. The owners of Quilmore conduct guided tours
around some of the best, bringing their history to life.
Please ask for details.
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Rare poultry
The extensive
Wernlas Collection
of Rare Poultry provides a fascinating day out. See the chicks at the
very start of their lives. It is between Quilmore and Craven Arms.
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Villages
There are numerous quiet picturesque villages within easy reach, among
them Clunbury, Clungunford,
Bucknell,
and Leintwardine.
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Festivals
Most of the towns and village near Quilmore have festivals or carnivals.
Knighton, Clun and Craven Arms all have carnivals, and there are
outdoor plays, processions and celebrations. Aston on Clun has its
ancient
Arbor Day
and there are numerous smaller events. Click on the sites for further details.
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