Whitchurch: A Hidden Gem Market Town Near Abbey Green Farm

Just a 15-minute drive from Abbey Green Farm you’ll find the charming town of Whitchurch. Nestled in North Shropshire, it combines the gentle pace of country life with a fresh burst of creativity. Georgian buildings line its streets, independent cafés and craft shops invite you in, and a lively calendar of events gives the place a local buzz.

Why Whitchurch is worth a visit

• Independent character: Whitchurch has plenty of small boutiques, artisan producers and local cafés, perfect for a relaxed morning of browsing or a leisurely lunch.

• Creative touches: From pottery-painting studios to fair-day spectacles, the town embraces imaginative activity.

• Events and festivals: Whether you’re after family fun, food and drink or quirky community happenings, Whitchurch gives you more than a typical market town.

• Nearby nature & activities: Close to lakes, canals and countryside walks, it’s a great spot to combine shopping, culture and active outdoors.

  
  

What to do in Whitchurch

Pottery painting at Doodle Alley

For a quiet but creative treat, head to Doodle Alley, a cosy pottery painting studio in Whitchurch where you can choose a ceramic piece, decorate it at your own pace, and take it home. Ideal for a rainy afternoon or as a thoughtful break between countryside walks.

Stroll the town centre & shopping

Wander around the High Street and Bullring, stopping for a coffee or cake. Keep an eye out for artisan and vintage treasures at the “Vide Grenier” vintage market which pops up in Whitchurch on certain Saturdays.

Festivals & Events

• Whitchurch Food & Drink Festival: This free family-friendly festival, held in Jubilee Park in May, showcases local food producers, street food, chef demonstrations and fun children’s activities.

• Blackberry Fair: Each autumn, Whitchurch comes alive for this colourful fair with street performers, morris-dancers, curious costumes, craft stalls, live music and a lively community atmosphere.

• Walking Festival & “Walkers Are Welcome” town: Whitchurch hosts a walking festival and is part of the network of towns encouraging walkers, a boon if you love countryside footpaths and fresh air.

Explore the nearby water & nature Just on the outskirts of the town lies Alderford Lake (Tilstock Road SY13 3JQ) a fantastic spot for more active fun. You’ll find a giant aquapark, paddle-boards, canoes, walking trails, a lakeside café and even themed events like live-music festivals or bonfire nights.

Note: At times the lake may be closed for safety reasons (for example due to blue-green algae). If you plan water-based activities, it’s worth checking ahead.

How to make the most of it and combine with your stay:

• Morning: Enjoy a slow breakfast at Abbey Green Farm, then drive into Whitchurch for a wander around the market town, pop into Doodle Alley, and sample local cafés.

• Afternoon: Head to Alderford Lake for fresh air, choose a lakeside stroll, a paddleboard or just sit with a drink by the water.

• Evening: Return to Abbey Green Farm for quiet countryside tranquillity, pre-order a homemade pizza, and enjoy a relaxed evening under the stars.

• If you’re staying a little longer: Plan for the Food & Drink Festival or Blackberry Fair depending on time of year, and keep an eye on the event listings for Alderford Lake’s seasonal activities.

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Why it works with Abbey Green Farm

At Abbey Green Farm we offer elegant, peaceful countryside stays, the perfect contrast to a lively, interesting day in town. A stay here gives you the best of both worlds: the calm of rural Shropshire and the charm of a market town that’s quietly becoming a destination in its own right. We’re ideally placed for guests who want to walk, explore, browse, and then unwind.

Book your stay

Return at the end of the day to the comfort and tranquillity of Abbey Green Farm. Whether you’re in our adults-only B&B, relaxing by our glamping pod, or camping under the stars, you’ll find warmth, elegance and a welcome from us both,

Rose & Philip.

🌿 Discover Whitchurch and the surrounding area and enjoy a countryside escape with character.