10 places we love near Abbey Green Farm

Life moves gently here in North Shropshire. Morning light spills over the fields, the kettle hums on the stove, and the garden stirs with birdsong and bees. From our little corner at Abbey Green Farm, days stretch out quietly, filled with simple, beautiful places to explore.

Here are ten of our favourite local spots, perfect for a countryside wander, a slow afternoon, or simply doing nothing at all.

1. The Mere at Ellesmere

We often send guests here first. The Mere is just a short drive from us, several lakes are fringed with old oaks and willows. We like to walk along Creamore gardens in the early evening, when the swans drift by and the town slows to a hush. There’s a nice little café too, along the waters edge, the sort where the tables are wooden, the tea strong, and the cakes generous.

2. The Market town of Whitchurch

A short drive from Abbey Green Farm, Whitchurch is an up-and-coming market town with a friendly atmosphere and a lovely mix of independent shops, cafés, and a weekly market. Known for its strong sense of community and beautiful Georgian architecture, it’s well worth a visit for a relaxed morning or afternoon potter.

👉 [Coming soon: our guide to Whitchurch.]

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3. Shropshire Way Wanderings

Some mornings we take our vintage bikes along a stretch of the Shropshire Way, which winds right through our countryside. There’s something ancient about the hedgerows and swaying cow parsley. You can walk for hours without seeing a soul,  just buzzards overhead and the odd curious cow.

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4. The Wild Mosses at Whixall

Few guests have heard of Whixall Moss, but those who go come back enchanted. It’s a great raised peat bog,  vast, quiet, oddly magical. We love the sound of it underfoot: springy and alive. Dragonflies skim the pools in summer and the skies stretch on forever.

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5. Hawkstone Park’s Forgotten Follies

A strange and wonderful place, Hawkstone is like stepping into a Victorian dream. There are towers, tunnels, crags and bridges hidden among the trees, and stories of hermits and treasure. Children adore it, and even grown-ups return rosy cheeked and a bit breathless.

6. Hodnet Hall Gardens

For peaceful beauty, Hodnet Hall never disappoints. Rhododendrons in spring, roses in June, and quiet lawns perfect for sitting with a book. It’s only open on certain days, but it’s worth timing your visit. Guests often return with photographs and flushed cheeks.

7. A Taste of Shropshire Cider

When the sun’s out, there’s nothing finer than a pint of something local. We recommend The Dickin Arms or The Old Town Hall Vaults,  both serve cider or ale from Shropshire’s small but mighty brewers. If you're lucky, there’ll be a dog at the bar and a fire crackling.

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​8. Ellesmere is a sweet little market town which is often described as a mini lake district. Boats are available to hire and there is a large children's play area.

9. Grinshill at Dusk

We always recommend Grinshill Quarry for golden hour. It’s not a hard walk, maybe 15 minutes to the top, but the views go on for miles. Shropshire lays itself out below you, all fields and shadows and the odd plume of chimney smoke.

10. Stay Put

Sometimes our favourite day out is… not going anywhere at all. Sitting in the under your awning. Listening to the birds.. Watching a buzzard circle lazily overhead. You don’t always need an itinerary here. Just time, stillness, and fresh air. Don't forget we serve afternoon tea and homemade luxury ice creams and sorbets, delivered to your pitch!

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Planning Your Visit

Whether you’re staying in our elegant B&B, camping under canvas, or escaping to the Orchard Hideaway glamping pod, Abbey Green Farm is your base for all of this, and for doing absolutely nothing at all.

We look forward to welcoming you.