Leisure within Shropshire and the Marches

There are numerous Bridleways in the area and active groups on social media who can guide including the Long Mynd Bridleways Association. 

A number of active clubs populate the River Severn catering for all levels of skill and experience, with clubs in Shrewsbury, Bridgnorth, Ironbridge, Hereford.

Five restaurants in the Shropshire and the Marches are mentioned in the Michelin guide:

Old Downton Lodge, Ludlow https://www.olddowntonlodge.com/

The Walrus, Shrewsbury https://www.the-walrus.co.uk/

The Bear Inn, Hodnet  https://www.thebearinnhodnet.com/

The Haughmond, Shrewsbury  https://www.thehaughmond.co.uk/

The Wild Shropshire, Whitchurch  https://www.wildshropshire.net/

There are numerous other well established, excellent restaurants, cafes and pubs in the area to suit all tastes.

Shrewsbury Market Hall has won the title of Britain’s Favourite Market four times, including in 2025. This is a record for the award, which is given annually by the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA).  A real must for a visit to buy local produce, essential ingredients, a range of international street food eateries and cafés.

Many other towns have weekly markets including Ludlow, Leominster, Much Wenlock, Church Stretton, Montgomery to name a few where there is local seasonal produce and often artisan wares. 

Ludlow Food Festival is a significant part of the ‘food calendar’ for the year and usually takes place in September.  It consists of independent food and drink producer stalls, chef demonstrations, real-ale and cider trails and the famous sausage trail.

Shropshire, the Marches and North Herefordshire have a vibrant arts community with numerous galleries, exhibitions, and cultural events.

Galleries can be found in Shrewsbury, Oswestry, Ironbridge and Ludlow and Hereford has several excellent galleries. H.Art  (Herefordshire Art Week) is a notable open studio event where local artists invite visitors into their creative spaces. Additionally, Shrewsbury Arts Trail is an annual event displaying public art across the town. Ludlow Fringe Festival is a mix of art, theatre, music, and comedy, including visual art exhibitions. Hay Festival in May is a world recognised event within easy reach by the day. 

Ludlow Festival is a significant part of the calendar with performances of Shakespeare’s plays within Ludlow Castle.  More recently the Castle has also been staging live music and festivals. 

The Quarry in Shrewsbury is a venue for live entertainment including music festivals and the long-established Flower Show held annually in August.

There is a theatre in Shrewsbury, and various cinemas in the county including two arts cinemas in Shrewsbury and Ludlow. Theatre Clwyd and Birmingham Theatres and museums are accessible too.

The independent shops in Shropshire and the Marches offer a delightful experience, showcasing the region’s rich heritage and vibrant local culture whilst supporting the region’s artisans, food and drink producers, and entrepreneurs.  Very popular is the Wyle Cop in Shrewsbury (home to award-winning independent wine merchants, Tanners) and other towns including Ludlow, Bishops Castle, Whitchurch and Church Stretton provide a great mix of book shops, food stores and boutiques.