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Fun Family Holidays in Bishop’s Castle

Guide to planning a family holiday in Shropshire

Bishop's Castle is a charming town nestled in the heart of the Shropshire Hills, making it the perfect destination for a family holiday. With its stunning scenery, abundance of outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Family Accommodation

Bishop's Castle has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and needs. Whether you're looking for a cosy cottage, a spacious self-catering property, or a comfortable hotel room, you're sure to find something perfect for your family.

Find the perfect place to match your needs with our helpful places to stay listings.

Things to do

Bishop's Castle and the surrounding area offers a wealth of activities for families of all ages. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Go for a walk or bike ride in the Shropshire Hills: The Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is home to some of the most beautiful countryside in England. There are plenty of walking and cycling trails to choose from, suitable for all levels of experience.
  • Follow The March of the Elephants trail. Created by a team of talented artists, the trail marks some of the towns history and its links to the wonderful Indian elephant.
  • Explore the town's independent shops and cafes: Bishop's Castle has a thriving independent shopping scene, with a variety of unique boutiques, gift shops, and food shops to browse. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can stop for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
  • Visit the Clun Castle: This beautiful medieval castle is located just a short drive from Bishop's Castle. It's a great place to learn about the history of the area and explore the castle grounds.
  • Visit the Bishop's Castle Museum: Learn about the town's fascinating history and culture at the Bishop's Castle Museum. The museum has a variety of exhibits, including archaeological finds, local crafts, and a Victorian schoolroom.

In addition to the above, there are a number of other attractions within easy reach of Bishop's Castle, including:

  • The British Ironwork Centre: This museum tells the story of ironworking in Shropshire, with interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
  • The Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre: This visitor centre has information on the Shropshire Hills and the surrounding area, as well as a play area and cafe.Powis Castle and Garden: This magnificent castle and garden is located just a short drive from Bishop's Castle. There's plenty to keep families entertained, including the castle grounds, gardens, and adventure playground.
  • The Stiperstones: This range of hills is a popular spot for walking, hiking, and mountain biking. There are also a number of ancient burial mounds and stone circles to explore.
  • Visit the Offa's Dyke Centre: The Offa's Dyke Centre is a great place to learn about the history of Offa's Dyke, a 7th-century earthwork that marks the border between England and Wales. The centre also has a number of interactive exhibits and a cafe.

Food and drink

Shropshire is an area renowned for the range of local produce and dining experiences with many firm family favourites. Enjoy time together as a family over food in one of the many settings:

  • Local Produce: Ideal to make the most of a self-catering stay, explore the range of produce from the area at one of the local butchers and food stalls including the popular market.
  • Cafes and Tea Rooms: Relax with a light bite lunch at one of the many family-friendly locations around Bishop’s Castle and nearby towns and villages.
  • Pubs and Restaurants: Take a night off from the kitchen and dine at one of the delicious pubs and restaurants in the area. During the summer months many offer beer gardens with memorable views as the sun sets.
  • Picnic Sites: Make the most of the range of beautiful locations in the area and dig in to local delights on the go at one of the many picnic sites.

Tips for a great family holiday in Bishop's Castle

Here are a few tips for having a great family holiday in Bishop's Castle:

  • Plan ahead: Book your accommodation and activities in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season.
  • Pack for all types of weather: The weather in the Shropshire Hills can be unpredictable, so it's important to pack for all types of conditions.
  • Take your time: Don't try to cram too much into one day. Instead, take your time and enjoy the relaxed pace of life in Bishop's Castle.
  • Be prepared for adventure: There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures in the Shropshire Hills. Be sure to pack appropriate footwear and clothing.
  • Have fun! Bishop's Castle is a wonderful place to relax and create lasting family memories.

With its stunning scenery, rich history, and abundance of activities, Bishop's Castle is a great destination for a family holiday. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!