shropshire signpost 2014

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Historic Houses | Festivals

Gardens | Museums | Tourist Attractions

www.countysignpost.co.uk

The Ultimate Annual County Guidehe Ultimate Annual County Guide

Shropshire

Issue 12 - 2014Issue 12 - 2014 tryourfreeiPhoneandAndroidapps


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ConTenTS

Signpost - page 1

Welcome to the 2014 edition of ShropshireSignpost, your indispensable guide to thebest tourist attractions and days out thecounty has to offer.

We hope that you find our guide, a pleasure toread, both interesting and informative, and thatyou will take it away with you, to use again andagain.

We offer a taster of the visitor attractions andevents within the County, for both locals and

those who wish to visit from afar.

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Ct Spst LtdCt Spst Ltd

01743 87409801743 874098

[email protected]@ctspst.c.

Historic Buildings

Festivals & Shows

Gardens & Outdoors

Attractions & Museums

Published by: County Signpost LtdEditor: Adam Davison

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www.ctspst.c.

Please mentionShrpshr Spst

when visiting any of

the attractions.All material in this magazine is, as far as we are aware,correct at the time of printing. County Signpost Ltd doesnot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies

which slipped through. Copyright County Signpost Ltd2014. No part of this magazine may be used or

reproduced without the written permission of thepublisher.

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ignpost - page 2

With fascinating history and breathtakingcountryside, National Trust properties inShropshire offer something for everyone.

As well as delighting in country house splendourand beautiful scenery, visitors can enjoy a wideange of activities and events in 2014.

For even more great value days out, ask theeception teams about annual National Trust

membership which gives free entry and parkingat more than 300 historic houses and gardens.

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Attingham Park is one of Shropshires mostpopular attractions, with acres of parkland, thestriking Regency mansion and the tranquilWalled Garden offering a fantastic day out forvisitors of all ages. Attingham is open dailythroughout the year where you can enjoy

seasonal highlights and a diverse eventsprogramme.

Visitors can relax on a stroll through thewoodland, run wild on a family day out in the

Shoulder of Mutton Playfield, discover the

stunning showrooms in the mansion or celebratea special occasion with a trip to Lady BerwicksAfternoon Tea Room.

Attingham Re-discovered is a major ongoingproject to conserve and restore the Regencyinteriors, and in 2014 some of the mostambitious work will be at the heart of a visit tothe mansion. Visitors can find out about the

complex work to install a state-of-the-artsecondary roof to protect the magnificent JohnNash roof in the picture gallery, and follow theprogress of conservation experts as the nextstage of the project begins; the restoration ofthe intricate decoration damaged by the leakingroof.

Attingham Hall has a history of rising and fallingfortunes, and was built in 1785 for the 1st LordBerwick to the design of George Steuart. Themagnificent Regency interiors containcollections of ambassadorial silver, Italianfurniture and Grand Tour paintings.

Attingham was completed and furnished by the2nd Lord Berwick, but the extravagant taste ofthe lord and his wife led to bankruptcy and in1827 and 1829 there were sales of almost the

entire contents. The house was then leased tothe 3rd Lord Berwick, who had been a diplomatin Italy for 25 years, and who turned Attinghamsfortunes around.

Spectacular parkland, landscaped by HumphryRepton in 1797, surrounds the house offeringmiles of walks ranging from a stroll through therhododendrons on the Mile Walk to a wander in

the open acres of the deer park. In 2014 the parkwill be open daily from 8am 7pm from May tilthe end of September, giving visitors extra timeto soak up the sunshine on a stroll with friendsor run off some energy in the childrensplayground.

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For admission prices, opening times and a fullevents list contact the property on 01743 708162or visit the website atww w.na tional tr us t.org.uk/ attingh am- pa rk.Attingham Park is open daily except Christmas

ay.

There is also an Attingham Park You Tubechannel and the chance to follow the estatesgoings-on via Twitter and Facebook.

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Family Trails: Every day in the school holidaysTrustys Tuesday Club: Family activitiesTuesdays in the School Holidays (exceptChristmas Holidays)Food Fair: 6 and 7 September

Attingham Christmas: 6 & 7 and 13 to 23December

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One of Shropshires hidden gems is Sunnycroft,a Victorian Gentlemans villa which providesv s tors w t a asc nat ng g mpse o t e past.

Sunnycroft is typical of houses that were builtfor prosperous professionals on the fringes ofVictorian towns and cities. It is a remarkablesurvival of a vanished way of life both insideand out.

Its design reflects the patterns and concerns ofsmall town life and key rooms include theimposing Staircase Hall, Dining Room andBilliard Room.

Sunnycroft was given to the National Trust by

Joan Lander in 1997. Miss Lander, who inheritedthe house from her father, was a highlyaccomplished embroiderer and examples of hertalent for needlework are on display in thehouse.

For 2014, there will be a new exhibition fromMarch focusing on Joan Lander the businesswoman. This will offer displays of fragile textilesincluding Miss Landers kits, students work,

business paperwork and some of herembroidered commissions. Sunnycroft will alsomark the commemoration of the First WorldWar at Sunnycroft. There will be also be a seriesof themed events from a Produce Festival to anEdwardian Christmas.

The gardens reflect the early Edwardian period -complete with a magnificent Wellingtonia

Avenue - and the mini-estate recalls an era whenself-sufficiency was part of the prosperouslifestyle. The paddock, stables, pigsties, chickenrun and kitchen garden are all still intact and thestables will be open for visitors to see inside.

For admission prices or any further informationplease call 01952 242884.

evt Hhlhts fr 2014

18, 19, 20 & 21 April, 10.30am to 4pmEaster Egg TrailsNormal Admission prices apply. 2.50 per trail.

16, 17, 18, 19 May, 10.30am to 5pm (last entry tothe house 4 pm)Handicraft WeekendNormal admission charges apply.

28 & 29 June, 10.30am to 5pm (last entry to thehouse 4 pm)Summer FeteNormal admission prices apply30 & 31 August, 10.30am to 5pm (last entry to


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the house 4pm)Produce FestivalNormal admission prices apply

10, 11, 12 & 13 October, 10.30am to 5pm (lastentry to the house 4pm)

Handbags and GladragsNormal admission prices apply

13 21 December inclusive, 10.30am 4pm(last entry to the house 3 pm)Edwardian ChristmasNormal admission prices apply

Ddmst, r BrdrthDudmaston is a fine example of a traditionalworking Shropshire estate with a mansion at itsheart.

Built in the 17th century, the classic setting ofDudmaston Hall provides a stunning contrast toits unique collection of modern andcontemporary art. It is a true house

of collections from the intriguingmodern art galleries assembled bydiplomat Sir George Labouchere, tothe classical collections of botanicaldrawings and watercolours puttogether by his wife Lady Rachel.

There are nine acres of gardens toexplore, which include the Rockery

Bank and American Garden, whichare a glorious mass of colour inspring and summer and take on theseasonal hues of autumn.

The beautiful Big Pool provides astriking view from the garden andlibrary, whilst the Dingle offers awooded glen to explore.

Dudmaston hosts a variedprogramme of events for its visitors,from guided walks to childrens craftactivities and trails. New for 2014

will be an exhibition concentrating on theexperiences of Captain Geoffrey Wolryche-Whitmore during his WW1 service.

The estate is perfect for walkers with waymarkedroutes of 1.5 miles leading you through Comer

Wood and two routes of 5.5 and 4 milesbeginning from the Hampton Loade car park,which is another 1.5 miles towardsKidderminster off the A442. Why not downloada copy of the route maps from the propertyswebsite www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dudmaston.

evt Hhlhts fr 2014Childrens Activity Days every Monday and

Wednesday during school holidaysSpring Gardening Fair : Sat 24 Mon 26 May11am 5pmA Walk through the War - Living History Event: Sun 24 Mon 25 August 11am 5pmWood Fair : Sun 28 September 11am 5pmOrchard Day : Sun 12 October 11.30am 5pm

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Halloween Fun : Sun 26 October 11.30am pm

Christmas Fair : Sat 15 Sun 16 November11.00am 4pm

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Benthall Hall is situated on a plateau above thegorge of the River Severn. It is a fine stonehouse with a stunning interior, a carved oakstaircase, decorated plaster ceilings and oakpaneling.

The house and the Benthall family have beeninvolved in many important historical events,

from the Civil War to the Industrial Revolution.

Between 1710 and 1934 the Benthalls lostownership of the estate, and one of the newcustodians George Maw took full advantage ofthe close proximity to Ironbridge. George Mawand his brother were able to develop their tile

usiness at Benthall because of the clay and coal

available in this area, and they even used thehouse as part of their sales technique by layingtiled floors in the house. The tiled floor in theentrance hall has only recently beenrediscovered, because an oak floor wasconstructed on top.

George Maw was also a distinguished botanist;he assembled a collection of rare plants fromaround the world in the garden, including a largecollection of crocuses, which can still be seentoday in the spring and autumn.Also in the garden theres the delightful kitchengarden growing, fruit, vegetables and cutflowers. The Rose Garden in summer is full of

the scent of roses and there is even anElizabethan skittle alley. The Restoration churchis also open to visitors and it is well worth goingon a walk around the park and woods too.

For more details, call 01952 882159.

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Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd offerreathtaking views across Shropshire, Cheshire

and the Black Mountains.

The Long Mynd is an area of historic uplandheath, created when some of Britains oldestocks were pushed to the surface along the

Church Stretton fault. The ancient landscapehas been shaped by human activity forthousands of years, and there are scatteredarchaeological remains from the Bronze Age,Iron Age and Medieval times.

The area is designated an Area of OutstandingNatural Beauty and a Site of Special ScientificInterest as it contains a number of habitatssupporting wildlife and plants. Heather, bilberryand gorse cover much of the hilltop and thestreams and bogs of the sheltered valleys arehome to birds of prey, plants and insects.

There are miles of paths for walkers and anetwork of bridleways, which are ideal for bothhorse riders and cyclists. Whether you take ashort stroll through Carding Mill Valley or a

more rugged route to the Burway, there arebreathtaking views of beautiful countryside.

A busy programme of events and activities isheld at Carding Mill Valley throughout the year.

Walkers can enjoy exploring the heathland atCarding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd 365 daysa year. For information, call 01694 725000.

evt Hhlhts fr 2014

Event Highlights for 2014Wildflower Course: 6 dates between April andSeptember. 10am 3pmDragonfly Identification Course: 3 dates

between May and August. 10am -2pmCycling Festival: 14 June 22 JunePond Dipping: Every Wed from 23 July 27Aug. 11am 12.30pm & 2pm -3.30pmRaft Building: every Friday in August, 11am 12.30pm & 2pm 3.30pmCharges apply for all the events.

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Wenlock Edge is a stunning, geologicallyimportant wooded escarpment near the villageof Much Wenlock.

The limestone of Wenlock Edge is ofinternational repute as an example of old coraleef deposits. It supports an array of flowered

grassland and ancient woodland, making the areaan important Site of Special Scientific Interest(SSSI).

Three National Trust car parks at Much

Wenlock, Wilderhope and Presthope, mark thestart of miles of walks to enjoy offering dappleshaded paths and dramatic views across theShropshire countryside.

Nearby, is the unspoilt Elizabethan limestonemanor house, Wilderhope Manor which datesback to 1586. Although unfurnished, the interioris of interest for its remarkable wooden spiralstaircase and fine plaster ceilings. The gabled

property is now leased to the Youth HostelAssociation (YHA).

For general details about opening times andevents please call the National Trust on 01743708100 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk

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Over the Edge Challenge, Sun 19 October7.30am onwards (charges apply)

Signpost - page 7

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WHiTTingTonCaSTLe

Visit these strikingly picturesque and romanticuins which are steeped in much history, tales ofitter border warfare, romance and legend.

Tearoom serving snacks and cakes, gift shop andsecond hand bookshop. The Castle has a licensefor Civil Ceremonies, birthday parties, meetings,group tours; school visits, Paranormal GhostVigils can all be arranged. Visit our website forfurther details.

p msOpen Wed to Sun 10am-4pm SummerOpen Thurs to Sun 10am-4pm Winter

vts 20143-5th May "Historia Normannis" - NormanInvasion of the Castle31st May Outdoor Production "The Comedy ofErrors"

3rd June SHACC Car Meeting22nd June Planthunters Fair5th July Outdoor Production The Importanceof Being Ernest26-27th July Multi Period Living History Event.

This is just a sample of 2014 - please see thewebsite for more details.

ree entranceCar Park 1 via Pay & Display machine

W tt ngton ast e, ast e treetWhittingtonOswestry SY11 4DFTelephone 01691 662500E-Mail [email protected] www.whtttcstl.c.

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Spanning the borders of Shropshire and Wales isone of the UKs most unusual and spectacularWorld Heritage Sites., the Pontcysyllte Aqueductand Canal. This eleven mile stretch of theLlangollen Canal is officially recognised byUNESCO as one of the most outstandingheritage sites in the whole world. Itencompasses not one but two amazing

aqueducts which carry the canal high above theCeiriog and Dee valleys.

To walk across the 126 foot high aqueduct ofontcysy te o r t e on y s g t y ower r

aqueduct, four miles away, is to put your faith inthe genius of Thomas Telford and the skill ofeighteenth century engineers and workmen. AtPontcysyllte, crossing the stream in the sky is aunique experience as birds fly beneath you andboats glide beside you. At Chirk the canal andtowpath cross high above the River Ceiriog andalongside the nineteenth century railway viaduct

efore plunging both walkers and boats into the400 metre long tunnel, The Darkie.

Its easy to visit the World Heritage Site from itsShropshire end at Chirk, from Trevor for thePontcysyllte Aqueduct, and from Llangollen forthe scenic Horseshoe Falls. Trains fromShrewsbury & Wrexham go to Chirk justminutes from the Chirk Aqueduct and there arebus services connecting all the main parts of thesite.

For more information visit :www.ptcsllt-qdct.c.

Contact Visitor Information at Oswestry MileEnd Tel: 01691 662488 email :oswestrytourism shropshire.gov.uk

Or Visitor Information at The Heritage Centre,Oswestry Tel: 01691 662753email :obt.ltd btconnect.com

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In the peaceful, scenic valley of the River Severnthere awaits a delightful countryside experience.Green Flag award-winning Severn ValleyCountry Park offers 126 acres of beautifulcountryside and wonderful views, spanning bothsides of the longest river in the country. Thewoodlands, ponds and meadows in the park arefull of many species of plants and animals, some

of them quite rare.

A fantastic day out for all the family.

Visitor Centre and shop selling maps,guidebooks, park souvenirs and locally madeproducts Teashop and picnic areas Natural play area with a climbing frame andminiature Severn Valley! Waymarked trails to help you discover thehidden corners of the park Easy Access Trail and fully accessible bird hide Permanent orienteering trail with 3 levels ofdifficulty Route 45 (part of the Sustrans national cyclenetwork) passes through the park Request stop for the Severn Valley Railway Toilets, including disabled facilities and a baby

change unit Car parking at Alveley and Highley

The park acts as a gateway to the excellentfootpath network through the woodlands &meadows of the Severn Valley, betweenBridgnorth and Bewdley.

Bring a map, don your boots and discover an

ancient sandstone cross, babbling brooks,historical ferries and a flash of azure blue as akingfisher flies past.

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The park boasts a fantastic visitor centre withplenty of information about the history andwildlife of the area. There is also a kids cornerwith activities for younger people to enjoy whilemum and dad relax with a well-earned cup of tea

and a slice of delicious homemade cake.

The Visitor Centre and Teashop opening timesare:April- October Wednesday-Sunday - 11am-5pmNovember March - Weekends Only - 11am-4pmIt is open Bank Holidays (except Christmas Dayand Boxing Day) and 7 days a week during theschool holidays.

There is also a room that is used by visitingschool parties who come along and enjoy pond-dipping, minibeast hunts and a range of otheractivities to enrich their education.

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Now an oasis of peace and tranquillity, this part

of the Severn Valley used to be a centre ofindustry. Sandstone quarried from the area wasused to build part of Worcester Cathedral andwould have been loaded onto trows (flat-bottombarges) on the river.

SeVeRnVaLLey

CounTRyPaRk

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Coal mining started in Highley in 1878.Production was switched to Alveley in 1936. Atits peak the mine employed 1,000 men andproduced 300,000 tonnes of coal a year. It shutdown in 1969. Following the closure of themine, the spoil heaps and land lay derelict until

1986. Shropshire County Council andBridgnorth District Council embarked on anambitious project to reclaim the land, installingdrainage ditches, re-grading the spoil heap andplanting trees. Severn Valley Country Parkopened in 1992 and is now managed byShropshire Council.

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The riverside meadows are great places to seeinvertebrates including the rare club-taileddragonfly. Wander through the orchard inAutumn and sample some of the localprovenance apples that grow here. The bridgeover the river was rebuilt in 2006. It is anexcellent place to see bats hunting as the sun setsover the valley. The original bridge was built totake coal and miners across the river and was thefirst concrete cantilever bridge of its kind in theworld.

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The paths here were part of the originaltramway route taking coal to be washed, gradedand loaded onto trains. The ground has been

made up into embankments. The woodland isdominated by trees such as silver birch andwillow that have seeded. It is a good place to seewoodland birds such as nuthatch, tree creeper,blue tit and great tit.

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This is a relatively flat trail that is suitable forwheelchairs and pushchairs. It leads round abeautiful pond with mallards, coots andmoorhen bobbing amongst the lily pads. At the

end of the trail is a bird hide that overlooks thewetland. The reeds are cut annually to createperfect conditions for wading birds such aswater rail. A rare bittern (a small brown heron)has also visited the area!

Dscvr Spr Pcs

This is a quieter area of the park. It was notaffected by the mining. The hay meadow here is

a fantastic place to see wildflowers such as rareadders tongue fern, orchids and yellow rattle.

Walk through the buttercups and see butterfliesand bumblebees lazily flying around in thesunshine. Elfin Pool is a fantastic place to bringa net and go pond dipping. Look out for greenwoodpeckers flying around the meadows,feeding on yellow meadow ants.

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More than 200 of Britain's best food producerswill descend on the picturesque market town ofShrewsbury for its second annual food festival.The event launched in 2013 and proved such agreat success that organisers have decided todouble its size for June 2014.

Whr, Wht d WhThe festival takes place in The Quarry Park, inShrewsbury on 28th and 29th June. Featuringdemonstrations from the region's best chefs,there will also be free activities for thousands oflocals and visitors to the town including; livemusic, talks, tastings, crafts - and eventsthroughout Shrewsbury - plus a RestaurantSafari. Children will be able to enjoy a hands-oncookery school and a 'how to grow' vegetables

area. Parents can benefit from a crche foryounger children. For all ages, there will be thechance to watch artisan skills in action such asbutter making and iron working. Many highlightsare still being planned - there will not be ashortage of foodie fun!

Event Chief Executive Beth Heath commented;"The inaugural Shrewsbury Food Festival was fabulouslywell received and exceeded our expectations for year one.

We showcased 130 producers, our top regional chefs and

provided plenty of entertainment. This year we are back,

twice the size and pleased to say that we are holding our

prices for 2014.

As a predominantly rural county, Shropshire isbursting with quality producers that havecontributed to the foodie revolution in the area.

SHReWSBuRy

FooDFeSTiVaLJ 28th - 29th


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The Shrewsbury Food Festival is a celebration ofall the diverse tastes and products on offer andaims to include the towns many restaurants,cafs, bistros and pubs in the activity - so thatlocal businesses benefit from the influx of foodest va v s tors.

Local producer, Brian Crowther of Merangzexplains; We travel to food festivals all over thecountry and its been a fantastic addition to thecalendar to have an event of such high calibre inShrewsbury - so close to where we make ourmouth-watering Merangz. Its important that allour incredible local producers are showcased inthis way and that people have an increasedawareness about the provenance of the food

they eat. We are very much looking forward toeing part of the Food Festival in 2014.

Visit Shropshires county town for a weekend offoodie fun for all the family this summer. Tastethe food, meet the producers, visit theestaurants and soak up the Shropshire food

scene in Shrewsbury.

Exhibitors, volunteers and members ofthe public can find out more at

www.shrwsbrfdfstvl.c. or followshrewsfoodfest on Twitter for regular updates.

BRIDGNORTH BEWDLEY KIDDERMINSTER www.svr.co.uk

Every journeyends with a memory.Every journeyends with a memory.

evern a ey a way am es

A day on the Severn Valley Railwayis a day to remember. Take the peopleyou love and make some memories

that will last forever.

svrofficialsite


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Spr Fstvl vsmr, mr, mr

This years Ludlow Spring Festival promises tobe a real corker bringing together the very bestregional beer, food, music and 30 years of theMarches Transport Festival.

This is a beer festival and so much more, with190 glorious beers from more than 50 local

brewers available to taste over the weekend. Forthose not so keen on beer, dont worry there willalso be ciders, perry, fruit flavoured liqueurs andlocal wines.

LuDLoWSPRing

FooDFeSTiVaL

Signpost - page 14


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There will also be plenty of artisan producerstoo, so dont wait till the September festival tostock up on your favourite products.

The talks and demonstrations area in the InnerBailey has been a roaring success over the lastcouple of years and there will be a fullprogramme throughout the weekend. Look outfor Suree Coates from the multi-award winningKing & Thai, world cheese awards founder JulietHarbutt and TV chef and local cookery schoolowner Marcus Bean. Details for themasterclasses were being finalised as we went topress so please check the festivals websitewww.ludlowspringfestival.co.uk

As always the beer and food areaccompanied by a wealth of great musicfrom jazz and blues to Latin and folk, aswell as The Marches Transport Festival.Youll be able to peruse pre war gems

ight through to modern days classics of

the 70s and 80s.

This years Ludlow Spring Festival runs10-11 May however; there is a specialpreview evening on Friday 9 May when

visitors can Meet the Brewer. Its a uniqueopportunity to talk to brewers about their beersand sample the wide selection. With prizes

handed out early in the weekend, favourites sellout quickly so the Friday preview is anopportunity not to be missed.

For further details, opening timesand ticket prices see the festivalswebsite at :

www.ldlwsprfstvl.c.

Telephone 01584 873957

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Opera superstar Bryn Terfel and jazz sensationCaro Emerald are the headline acts at next year'sLlangollen International Musical Eisteddfod.

The acclaimed bass baritone will be playing thelead in a special production of StephenSondheim's Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barberof Fleet Street featuring an all-Welsh cast.

There will also be a world premiere of a newwork by top composer Karl Jenkins and an

appearance by the chart-topping singingbrothers, Richard and Adam Johnson, fromHolywell, in Flintshire.

Whats more the curtain will come down on thissummers Eisteddfod with an appeaerance by

legendary British rockers Status Quo who willperform on the Sunday night, July 13.

In between Dutch jazz diva Caro Emerald willdeliver a storming set on Thursday night whileother top attractions this year include theChinese State Circus and a new work by topcomposer Karl Jenkins which will be unveiled atthe festival.

The lavish production of Sweeney Todd onMonday, July 7, will be the curtain raiser for the2014 festival which gets underway the followingday.

The following night will see the return of KarlJenkins, the highest selling classical composeralive today, with the world premiere of his latestmasterpiece, Adiemus Colores.

The multi-award winning Dutch jazz singer CaroEmerald will be making her Llangollen debut onthe Thursday evening. Earlier this year hersecond studio album, The Shocking MissEmerald, went to No 1 in the UK album chart.

The Choir of the World competition on theSaturday night is the blue riband event of theweek-long festival and remains one of theforemost choral competitions in theinternational choral calendar, according toEisteddfod Musical Director Eilir OwenGriffiths.

Jl 8th - 12th

LLangoLLeninTeRnaTionaL

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There will also be a competition to find thedance champions of 2014 and to top theevening off Richard and Adam, who shot tofame on Britains Got Talent, will appear asspecial guests.

It will be the first time Bryn Terfel hasperformed on the International Eisteddfod stagesince he opened the 2006 festival and that washis first appearance at Llangollen in a decade.

He said: Im absolutely thrilled Im able to appear atthe 2014 International Eisteddfod. Im a proud

Welshman and the International Eisteddfod is unique,

the atmosphere, the colour, the audience, even the flowers,

it really is a very, very special event."

The lead role as the mean, brooding, murderousarber particularly excites Bryn who added: Im

really looking forward to returning to sing the role of the

Demon Barber of Fleet Street.

I had the honour of meeting Sondheim when I sang

Sweeney for the first time for a production at the Lyric

Opera of Chicago in 2002 and was privileged to be a

soloist for the BBC Proms Concert honouring Sondheims80th Birthday in 2010.

I hadnt sung the role since 2007 so I was grateful for

the opportunity to reprise the role in New York.

This will hold me in good stead for when I return to

Llangollen. And to be part of an all Welsh cast what a

coup! What other nation would be able to do this!

Musical Director Eilir Owen Griffiths said:"I amreally excited about the line-up for this year which I am

sure will prove a big hit with our audiences.

Were also thrilled to have Caro Emerald here. She is

a stunning talent who has made a sensational and

deserved rise to international stardom.

We want a rich diversity of music to be featured at

Llangollen and our only proviso is that it must be worldclass and Caro Emerald certainly fits into that category.

Its a lineup Caro Emerald is thrilled to be partof and she said: I have looked at who has been on the

ill in the past and there are some really iconic names.

Im really proud and humbled to have been asked to

perform and I look forward to finally performing in

ales for the first time.

I dont want to give too much away about what will be

included in my set list for the concert but what I will say

is that the audience, my band and, of course, me are sure

to have a good time!

The Eisteddfod is a complete internationalexperience and that goes for the food too.Home-cooked Welsh produce is on the menu

ut so are the cuisines of Europe, China, Indiaand the rest of the world and theres excellentlocal Llangollen ale.

There are gifts and clothes from South America,jewellery, wooden toys and Welsh-made

roducts at more than 40 stalls, includingexhibitions of festival supporters, ExtremeAnimals and Owl Rescue Display, charity groupsand more including jugglers, escape artists and

magic tricks.

To book tickets and for more details on the 2014festival go to the website at

www.trtl-stddfd.c.

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PReSTeigneFeSTiVaL

Taking place in a small, intimate town in theWelsh Marches, the Prst Fstvl hasbecome a mecca for those seeking artisticnourishment and musical discovery. With aforward-looking commissioning policy, theorganisation works closely with composers andartists to create and curate an inspiringprogramme of events for an ever-widening

Festival community.

Having greatly extended its artistic reach overthe last four years, to be seen clearly in thedevelopment of both the performanceprogramme and outreach activity, the PresteigneFestival continues to forge ahead with a widerange of exciting new ventures. l

The 2014 Festival programme has a particularlystrong Polish flavour; we not only celebrate thecentenary of Anglo-Polish composer AndrzejPanufnik, but also include important music byPenderecki, Lutoslawski, Grecki and Bacewicz,and feature new and recent works by two of theyounger generation of Polish composers Pawel Lukaszewski and Maciej Zielinski.

Other exciting ingredients include StephenMcNeff as composer-in-residence, a seventy-fifth birthday tribute for composer JohnMcCabe and the inclusion of music from Welshcomposers in celebration of the Dylan Thomascentenary.

Chamber opera returns to Presteigne a double-bill from Nova Music Opera, who wowedFestival audiences with their performances ofBrittens Curlew River last year. CeciliaMcDowalls exciting new work Airborne (aPresteigne Festival co-commission), about thelife and loves of a First World War Royal FlyingCorps pilot is carefully balanced with StephenMcNeff s Prometheus Drowned a darker piece

exploring the strange circumstances surroundingthe death of Percy Bysshe Shelley at Livorno in1822.

2014 sees a very strong crop of commissions,with special prominence given to vocal andchoral pieces a Requiem for soloists, chorusand orchestra from Pawel Lukaszewski, anunaccompanied choral work, The MarinersCompass, from Lynne Plowman and a song cycle,Lie Still, by talented young composer TobyYoung to words of Dylan Thomas. A stringquartet,And the Snow did Liefrom Hilary Tann, awork for clarinet and piano from Daniel Kidane

21st - 26th ast 2014

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(the 2013 Royal PhilharmonicSociety/Presteigne Festival Alan Hornememorial commission) and an Oboe Concertoby Stephen McNeff.

Under the auspices of the Festivals outreach

programme, clarinet and piano duo KateRomano and Richard Uttley will undertake anautumn tour when new works performed at theFestival will also be heard at concerts inBirmingham, Bristol and Cheltenham.

Artists appearing at the 2014 Presteigne Festivalinclude:

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www.facebook.com/presteignefestivaltwitter: PresteigneFest01544 267800P O Box 30, Presteigne,Powys LD8 2WF

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The Church Stretton Arts Festival celebrates 48years with a kaleidoscope of events.

The Festival, a key part of Shropshires artisticcalendar, includes concerts by professionals andlocal amateurs. Evening events are at 7.30pmand at Church Stretton School unless otherwiseindicated

Ss Hhlhts cld:Saturday July 26Concord College, Acton Burnell

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A world-famous quartet to open the 48thFestival! They are resident in Shrewsbury for thisweekend, giving master classes and will play amix of popular classical quartets together withSteve Reichs iconic Different Trains

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Music for trombone quartet with a Spanishflavour

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Two short plays

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Music for oboe trio

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Tuesday August 5St Laurences Church, Church StrettonPiano recital byMr Bbbt

Wednesday August 6Music with narrator details tbc

Thursday August 7, 3.00pmChurch Stretton Methodist ChurchTeatime concert presented byMs nbl classical guitarist

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The culmination of 4 days of drama workshops

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Stefan Grapelli-style jazz to begin our JazzWeekend

Saturday August 9Concord College, Acton Burnell

Th B Chrs Brbr BdAnother world-famous group to close theFestival!

Also:

art d Crfts ehbt opening MondayJuly 28, 7.30pm at Church Stretton School, and

open daily 11.00am 6.00pm during the Festival

Fr Cff Ccrts10.15am at St LaurencesChurch, Church Stretton Monday SaturdayJuly 28 August 2

Fr or Rctls at noon at Little StrettonChurch on Monday and Friday August 4 and 8,and at St Laurences Church, Church Stretton,Wednesday August 6

Brchrs:Church Stretton Visitor Information Centre.Tickets available from Gloria Carter, 49 LudlowRoad, Church Stretton SY6 7AD (01694)724106, John R Thomas (florist) 3 SandfordAvenue and Church Stretton VIC. Ring andRide Transport available free for all events;

telephone (01694) 720025. Art Exhibitioninformation from Joan Arnfield01694 724170.

www.strttfstvl.r.

twitter - @StrettonFest


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Church Stretton will be celebrating the 800thanniversary of street markets in the town asordered by King John on the 26th June 1214. Nodoubt this would have been a time forcelebrations in the town and surroundingvillages so we aim to reproduce that atmosphereand lifestyle of the period.

On Friday 20th June 2014 a medieval banquetwill be held in Silvester Horne Institute - doorsopening at 7:30pm and tickets will be 25. Therewill live music and entertainment and all thoseattending will be asked to dress as appropriate tothe period. Costumes can be made quite cheaplyand we have a number of ladies who haveformed a workshop to produce clothing and will

happily provide help and guidance to thosewishing to make their own outfits.

Saturday 21st June 2014 start the day with aprocession through the town with peopledressed in medieval costume. We hope toencourage as many people as possible to join theprocession together with some of the tradersand performers to be seen later at the medieval

village.

The re-created medieval village will be inRectory Field just off Church Stretton HighStreet and this will be the weekend home fortraders, re-enactment groups and entertainers.The lifestyle of the period will be seen as it wasin 1214 as many of those participating will beprofessional traders anxious to reproduce anauthentic image. The market stalls will include a

variety of rural crafts, some of which will bedemonstrating skills and will include LeatherWorkers, Pottery Making, Weaving, HurdleMaking, Coracle Making, Blacksmith plus manymore.

On Saturday the re-enactment groups will beseen training for the battle later in the day andthe outcome will prove to be inconclusive. Battlewill recommence on Sunday in order to finallysettle the dispute.

We have an ongoing programme with localschools who will be playing a significant part inthe celebrations. Apart from maypole dancingthey will be playing games with a medieval slanton modern day games.

Other attractions will include a Childrens CircusWorkshop where they can be taught how toperform a variety of juggling tricks greatentertainment for children of all ages and

beyond.

On Saturday & Sunday there will be two flyingdisplays together with a static display where youwill be able to see the birds up close.

Pitch fee for traders will be 45 for the weekendand tickets for entry to the fair will be 5 foradults and 3 for children weekend tickets will

also be available 8 for adults and 4.50 forchildren.

For further information please visit the websitewww.chrchstrtt.c. or contact DerekSmith email [email protected] orphone 01694 723189.

Signpost - page 22

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Al fresco dining anddrinks by the RiverTeme.

Ticket price 5 perperson.Ticket proceeds to StMichaels Hospice and theLeintwardineYouth

Group.

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A day of family fun and music on theanks of the River Teme in the gardens

of the Lion, Leintwardine. Ticket price2.50 (under 16s go free) . Ticket

roceeds go to Leintwardine YouthGroup.

Childrens entertainmentAl fresco food and drinks.Battle of the bands competition -Entry free -200 prize for the best band.

Please apply [email protected]


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Signpost - page 24

a fst fr ll th sss ...

The Ludlow Food Festival was first run in 1994and was the result of a pub table conversationamongst likeminded friends looking to preserveand promote the independent shops andproducers of the town and surrounding area.

These principles still guide everything thefestival continues to do today.

The event has grown from an initial 500 visitorsto the current 20,000 plus and is renownedacross the globe for with visitors from across theUK as well as the United States, Japan andAustralia having attended.

Organisers of the Ludlow Food Festival are hard

at work bringing together a host of new andfavourite attractions for visitors from 12-14September.

This will be the 20th Ludlow Food Festival andthere will be more than 180 of the very bestlocal food and drink producers sharing theirskills, enthusiasm and of course amazingproducts across the weekend.

The line up of chefs, food experts andenthusiasts across Ludlows two main stages,promises to be full of exceptional talent and

variety with some new faces promised this year.

Master classes have been incredibly popular thelast two years and this area is expanding this yearwith more classes to try your hand at. Little oneswont miss out either with a special kids cookeryschool.

LuDLoWFooD

FeSTiVaL12th - 14th Sptmbr


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Of course the ever-popular sausage, ale andbread trails will also be taking place aroundLudlow along with the pudding tasting and theSunday producers market.

For those who want to learn more about

particular ingredients or methods of cooking theTaste Workshops are a must. Led by expertproducers or chefs, they will guide you througha tutored tasting. Previous talks have includedsnout to tail, sherry tasting and the art of fruitdistillation.

For more details about the festival please visitthe websitewww.fdfstvl.c.Telephone 01584 873957

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Demonstrations and talksChildrens entertainmentOver 180 local food and drink producersHands on masterclassesSlow Food Taste Workshops

Live musicTop Chef Friday - the best of the best!Outside Food Vendors - a wide variety ofquality hot and cold meals,


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At Ludlow Medieval Christmas Fayre on the

29th

& 30th

November, in the stunningMedieval setting of Ludlow Castle, visitors willbe treated to a full day and evening opening onSaturday from 10am 9pm, joining Medievalknights, maidens, entertainers and stall holdersas the sun sets across South Shropshire and thecastle comes alive for an evening of fieryMedieval Revelry. On Sunday visitors will be able

to enjoy a day filled with Medieval festivitiesfrom 10am 4pm.

On both days explore over 100 stalls sellingseasonal wares, food and drink, crafts, historicalgoods and more; its the ideal chance to find theperfect, original gift or indulge in a unique treat.With a wide range of food and drink stalls totickle your taste buds, grab a mulled wine, aspiced cider or head over to our local Beer Tentto whet your appetite for our full programme of

entertainment. With the bone-crunchingPlantagenet Society knights, medieval music andfire juggling, theres entertainment throughoutthe castle all weekend. And keep an eye open forour 10 giants!

LuDLoWMeDieVaL

CHRiSTMaSFayRe29th - 30th nvmbr 2014

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From St. Nicholas in his magical den to try-onarmour, have-a-go archery and cross bow and

irds of prey, there is something for all thefamily to enjoy. Head to the Inner Bailey acrossthe flambeau-lit moat for hands-on-history,torytelling, demonstrations and activities, and

enjoy beer, sausages and roast chestnuts.

For the latest information and updates, headover to www.ldlwmdvlchrstms.c.or find us on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

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Fetch your Diary and mark in Thursday 7August Burwarton Show the best day out inthe Shropshire Countryside that you will everenjoy. Some twenty thousand people do thisevery year and many of our visitors havebecome regular patrons.

This year we look forward to headlineentertainment in the Main Ring by Gerard

Naprous with The Devils Horsemen aCossack Trick Riding Display and also with aWild West Spectacular. This is supplemented bythe Hawkeye Falconry Display showing off the

handling of birds of prey with an explanatorycommentary.

As a truly agricultural show, the basis of theshow is the competitive classes for cattle, sheep,heavy horses, goats and pigs. The standard ofexhibits is very high and competition is fierce.Judging takes place in the special judging ringswhere the public are welcome to watch and seethe expert judges at work with a commentary asto the finer points of each breed that they arelooking for.

Not to be outdone, the horse classes are almosta show in themselves with leading rein, ridden,showjumping and dressage classes as well as aPrivate Driving class and Concours delegance.

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Signpost - page 28

7th ast 2014


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All this comes together in the Main Ring in theGrand Parade of prize winning animals and apresentation of challenge cups to the winners.But that is only part of it! The show boasts tradestands of all kinds with a premier display ofagricultural machinery and country crafts plus a

Countryside Conservation area. The VillageGreen provides entertainment for the youngervisitor throughout the day and the competitiveclasses in the Womens Institute andHorticulture Marquees are well worth a visit.

You can find the Showground at CleoburyNorth on the B4364 between Bridgnorth andLudlow and parking is free. Tickets are Adult15, Concessions 14, Children 5-16 years 4or a Family Ticket for two adults and twochildren under 16 35. Pre Show tickets areavailable throughout the area at discountedrates or on-line at

www.brwrtshw.c. or direct fromthe Show Office on 01746 787535 or e-mail

[email protected].

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Signpost - page 30

For over a century Bridgnorth Cliff Railway hasbeen transporting the people of Bridgnorth upand down the 111 ft sandstone cliffs thatseparate High Town from Low Town and theRiver Severn.

It is first and foremost a working railway; itsimportance to both the townspeople ofBridgnorth and to visitors to the town isundiminished by age.

The railway operates two carriages on paralleltracks. Connected by steel cables, the carriagesserve to counterbalance each other - as one risesto the top station, the other runs to the bottomstation.

The cars are now powered by an electric windingengine, but were originally driven by a system ofwater balance, each carriage carrying waterballast in a tank beneath the passengercompartment.

Next to the Top Station are TheWinding House Tearooms viewingpanels through to the Engine Room,and a Terrace area with wonderfulviews across the River Severn.

Directly above the Bottom Station,

the Stoneway Guest house offers aunique B&B experience.

Do visit Englands only remaininginland electric funicular railway !

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Telephone 01746 762052www.brdrthclffrlw.c.

BRiDgnoRTHCLiFF

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2126 August 20142126 Awst 2014

Musical discovery and artistic innovation

in the beauty of the Welsh Marches

the consistently ambitious Presteigne Festival

THE TIMES

Leonore Trio, Nova Music Opera

Cavaleri Quartet, Benjamin NabarroGemma Roseeld, Kate Romano

Rachel Nicholls, Clare McCaldin

Joyful Company of Singers

Festival Orchestraand so much more

for free brochure and full programme call or view

01544 267800 | www.presteignefestival.com

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One o f the worlds m ost a ppeal in g sm al l museumsDr John Davies, historian.

When the Judges Lodging closed its doors at theend of the 2013 season, it had no idea just howexciting the following few months would be

The beautiful gas-lit kitchen in its Victorianjudges accommodation became the star ofBBCs Food & Drink Christmas Special, withhistorian Lucy Worsley exploring the art ofVictorian jelly-making, whilst the lavishlyillustrated reprint of well-known author BillBrysons book, A Short History of Private Lives,

used a full page illustration of the room as theheading to his chapter on the history ofkitchens.

If that wasnt enough excitement, 2014 haskicked off with the museum being visited byHRH Prince of Wales, who found it a anatmospheric and truly inspirational place. Thiswas swiftly followed by it winning Britains BestHidden Gem in the Hudsons Heritage Awards2014 at a ceremony at Goldsmiths Hall,London, where it was presented by celebrityhosts Lloyd Grossman and Lucinda Lambton.

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You really do need to see for yourself what allthe fuss is over this exceptional courthouse inthe tiny Welsh border town of Presteigne.

The Judges Lodging has long had a reputation

for liking the quirkier side of history, so a visit tothe museum will treat you to all sorts ofasc nat ng ns g ts nto V ctor an v ng, romelly-making and napkin folding to toilet habits

and household maintenance hints.

This award-winning historic judgesaccommodation and court offers a most unusualourney back in time. Wander through theudges private apartments and make yourself at

home, for The Judges Lodging an historic housewith a difference you can touch! You can lie onthe beds, read the judges books and even pumpwater in the kitchen. Below stairs there is the full

ange of servants rooms to explore, withkitchens, sleeping quarters and workrooms; awhole gaslit world to discover. The tour isfinished by a trip to the vast echoing courtroom,where you are haunted by the echoes of trials

long since concluded. You are guided throughthis Victorian world by an eavesdroppingaudiotour featuring the voice of actorRobert Hardy.

This year, a very special treat has been arrangedfor visitors. Stapleton Castle occupies acommanding position on the hill overlookingPresteigne. It has no public access but TheJudges Lodging has teamed up with the owner

to offer guided walks. Tours last about an hour,taking in the 12th century castle site, ruins of thelater house, the mill site and a stroll through thegardens. Tours are only by prior arrangement,but bookings can easily be made by calling theowner on 01544 267327, preferably giving 24hours notice. They will endeavour to suit yourrequirements. Your personal tours are 5 perperson, with a minimum charge of 25. Allproceeds from the tours will be donated equally

to The Judges Lodging and the National GardenScheme.

If you want more information on the castlewalks, the museum and any of its activities, visitthe website or just call the staff who are alwayshappy to chat.


www.jdsld.r.

Stplt Cstlhtrphs al Rms


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A world class collection of over 1,000 tiles and300 tile panels of outstanding quality andinternational significance will go on display in anew purpose designed gallery at Jackfield TileMuseum from July.

Donated by private collector John Scott to theIronbridge Gorge Museum Trust, it includes

examples by the most prestigious designers andmanufacturers from the 1850s through to the1960s including Pugin, Dresser, Morris, DeMorgan and Bawden. The quantity, rarity anddiversity of the tiles and panels will ensure theirplace amongst the worlds foremost collectionsof British decorative tiles.

Possibly the star of the collection is amagnificent tile panel by William De Morganfeaturing a stylised deer from Battersea OldHouse. Made up of 42 tiles and over a metre inheight, this design is evocative of all that isassociated of the Aesthetic Movement of the

Signpost - page 34

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ignpost - page 35

1870s. The collection also contains many otherDe Morgan designs including his signaturegalleons, animals and mythical beasts.

Twentieth century designers are well represented

with examples by Edward Bawden showing hischaracteristic dynamic style. One panel thatstands out by way of its striking modernism, isohn Pipers Four Seasons; an unusual foray by

the artist into the world of tile design.

A great value Annual Passport Ticket allowingentry into all ten Ironbridge Gorge Museums,valid for twelve months and unlimited returnvisits, costs 27.50 per adult, 21 for the 60 plus,16.50 for students and children and 68 for afamily of two adults and all their children agedup to 18 years in full time education (terms andconditions apply); under 5s free. Activities and

workshops vary day-to-day and some carry anextra charge in addition to the museumadmission fee. Individual museum entry ticketsare also available.

or urt er n ormat on te ep one 1

or v s t www.rbrd.r.; theGorge is easily reached via the M6 and M54motorways exiting at Telford (M54 junction 4or 6).

Jcfld Tl Msm -

old & nw Blds


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Follow the path taken by the limestone quarriedfrom Llanymynech Rocks down the inclinedplanes to the lime kilns and thence to the canalor railway. Visit one of only 3 remainingHoffman Kilns in the country (the only onecomplete with chimney) and explore it bothinside and out! You can also wander and picnicin the woodland and meadows.

The site is always open. There is car parkingadjacent to the canal or behind the Dolphin pubin the village.

Visit the website www.llanymynech.org.uk todownload a map and other information.

Telephone 01691 839147, oremail [email protected]

Location: on the A483 next to the canal inLlanymynech. Grid Ref: SJ266211. Post CodeSY22 6EA

Whrf Vstr Ctr

Open 1.30 - 4.30 Sundays and Bank Holidaysfrom Easter to end of September

Boat Trips, Exhibition, Gifts and LightRefreshments

www.llanymynech.org.ukwww.dchss-ctss.r.

LLanyMyneCH

LiMeWoRkS

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Tanat Valley Light Railway Company, NantMawr Visitor Centre, Nant Mawr, NearOswestry, Shropshire, SY11 9DW

Telephone 01948 - 781079

websitewww.tvlr.c.e-mail [email protected]

Just off the A495 at Porthywaen near Oswestry

op tmsfrom Easter to September open10 - 5 every day, other times open most Tuesdaysand Weekends, group visits or tours by priorarrangement, phone for details

Facilities include Toilet, woodland walks, naturetrail, picnic area, car parking, small museum,

wildlife pond, all free to visit (donations verywelcome).

naT LLey

LigHTRaiLWay


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Set in the beautifulShropshire hillsSnailbeach mine hasone of the best collec-tion of original leadmine buildings andartefacts in the country.

Snailbeach was the biggest lead mine inShropshire and it is reputed to have yielded thegreatest volume of lead per acre of any mine inEurope. Underground mining ceased here in1955 but it is reputed to date from Roman timesand the surface buildings are the most completeset in the district and probably the country.Although the miners mainly extracted lead ore(galena), smaller quantities of Barite, Calcite,Fluorspar, Silver and Zinc were also obtained.

The Shropshire County Council, using govern-ment grants, did extensive work in the early1990s to make some of the shallow workingssafe for the villagers. At the same time, theyacquired many of the surface buildings and pre-served these. The Shropshire Mines Trust nowmanages the site for the Council.

You can visit at any time and walk around fol-lowing many paths.

The free visitor centre will be open on Sundaysduring the summer. Here can see a short videowhich explains the mine and its place in localhistory. You can also see displays which explainthe mining history and social conditions and talkto our guides.

There is a short underground trip into a tunnel

next to the visitor centre. (2-00)

On some planned weekends there is a moreextensive trip into larger workings where you cansee two areas which were mined. (5-00)

More information & dates on the website whichhas links to their Facebook & Twitter pages.

Visits for schools and groupsavailable, surface & underground, please contact:

www.shrpshrms.r./slbch/d.htm

Snailbeach Lead MineSnailbeach, Nr MinsterleyShropshire. SY5 0NS

All parking at the Village Hall please and The

Shropshire Hills Shuttle bus stopsin the village.

SnaiLBeaCHMine

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Shropshire Museums runs sevenmuseums across the county. The

museums offer a fascinatingg mpse nto rops res r c er-itage and are the perfect place to

start your exploration of the surrounding area.Staff are happy to help you with your enquiriesabout local attractions, events, days out andplaces to stay. For further visitor informationplease visit:

www.shrpshr.v./msms.sf

Acton Scott Historic Working Farm is one ofthe country's leading working farm museums.We specialise in bringing nineteenth centuryfarming to life through practical demonstrations

sing traditional skills and period horse-drawnmachines. See farm life unfold before you on theland, around the farm and in the cottage.

Acton Scott Historic Working Farm is openweekends and school holidays from April 7th to

the 2nd November. To find out about our open-ing times and events call us on (01694) 781306,visit www.actonscottmuseum.com or follow onFacebook.

For stop press news from all ShropshireMuseums venues follow us on twitter atwww.twitter.com/ShropsMuseums

op 2014:Open daily 10am - 4.30pm Weekends andShropshire School holidays for general admis-sion, & Shropshire Schools term time weekdaysfor pre-booked schools, coaches and groupsonly.

www.ctscttmsm.cm

nr Church Stretton, SY6 6QNTelephone 01694 781 306

SHRoPSHiReMuSeuMS


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Mch Wlc Msm

Much Wenlock seems an unlikely place to lookfor the origins of the Modern Olympic Gamesbut it was here in 1850 that local doctor and phi-lanthropist William Penny Brookes staged the

first Wenlock Olympian Games. This annualevent was inspired by the ideals of the ancientGreek games and is still held every year.

However, the museums displays tell many otherimportant stories about the town and surround-ing area. You can discover how the town devel-oped around the fine medieval priory to serve

visiting pilgrims, much as it welcomes visitorstoday. You can also explore the rich geology ofWenlock Edge and study its rocks and fossils asthe early geologists did around 150 years ago.

This child friendly museum has a range of activ-ities for all ages from stamping your own Romancoin to researching your family history in ourLocal History Centre.

Described by Mark Rowe of the Independentnewspaper as "...one of the world's great littlemuseums." Much Wenlock Museum and VisitorInformation Centre is the perfect place to startyour exploration the town and the surroundingcountryside. The staff are happy to help youwith your enquiries about attractions and events,days out and places to stay.

Much Wenlock Museum is open throughout theyear (reduced opening hours over the winter). Tofind out about our opening times and events callus on (01952) 727679,

visit www.muchwenlockmuseum.co.uk or followus on Facebook. For stop press news from allShropshire Museums venues follow us ontwitter at www.twitter.com/ShropsMuseums

Ldlw Msm d

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Ludlow Museum is one of the oldest in the UKand 2014 will see it move to the Buttercross atthe heart of Ludlow. The museums collectionstell the towns history and explain how Victoriangeologists unravelled the meaning of Ludlow'srocks, making them internationally famous.

Ludlow is also home to the Museum ResourceCentre which runs a full and varied programmeof exhibitions and courses.For details of opening times please see

www.ldlwmsm.c.ortelephone on 01584 813665

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The new Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery islocated in the 19th Century Music Hall and 13thCentury Vaughans Mansion on The Square inthe town centre.

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Signpost - page 41

It uses a variety show of different ways toinspire you to think about Shrewsbury andShropshires heritage. Throughout the fourmain galleries Pre-history and Roman,Medieval and Tudor, Stuart and the ShropshireGallery we have included fine art from our col-

lections that reflect the periods and themesexplored. The hundreds of museum artefactsand pictures from Shropshires collections willsuggest many opportunities to get out andexplore the countys heritage.

The special exhibition programme begins with aselection of contemporary art from the collec-tion of Frank Cohen until 30th June. Check thewebsite for details of our temporary exhibitions.

Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery is home tothe towns Visitor Information Centre, whichwill help you to plan your days out in Shropshire.Enjoy a coffee and snack in our Caf Bar andvisit the shop on the ground floor.

Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery opens inMarch 2014 check the website for date. It willbe open daily from 10am to 5pm until the end of

October and closed on Mondays fromNovember to Easter. Winter opening hours areon the website.

www.shrwsbrmsm.r.

The Square, Shrewsbury SY1 1LHTel: 01743 258885Visitor Information CentreTel: 01743 258888Email: [email protected]

Clhm Pmp Stt

Coleham Pumping Station was built in 1900 tohouse two steam-driven beam engines as part ofa major upgrading of Shrewsbury's seweragesystem. Two massive steam-driven beam engineswere built by Renshaw's of Stoke-on-Trent dur-ing 1897-1898; and a brick building, resemblinga Victorian chapel in style, was constructed in1900 to house them. The pumping station wasopened by the mayoress of Shrewsbury in 1901.The Shrewsbury Steam Trust was founded in1992 with the aim of restoring the steam engines

and the two coal-fired Cornish boilers that pro-vided the steam.

Both steam engines may be seen running togeth-er on the several Open Days that are held at themuseum each year.

In 2014, the dates will be

Sunday 13th AprilSunday 18th MaySunday 15th June

Saturday 13th SeptemberSunday 14th SeptemberSunday 26th October

[email protected].

Th Rmtl Msm

The Regimental Museum was established inShrewsburys mediaeval Castle in 1985 combin-ing regimental collections from various locationsin the county.

It now forms one of The Rifles heritage muse-ums and houses the collections of:

The 53rd (Shropshire) Regiment 1755 1881The 85th (Kings) Light Infantry 1759 1881

The Kings Shropshire Light Infantry 1881 -1968The Militia, Volunteers and Territorials ofShropshireThe Shropshire Yeomanry 1795 1970

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The Shropshire Artillery Volunteers 1860 -1908The Shropshire Royal Horse Artillery 1908 -1967

There are also displays on the county Lord

Lieutenancy, the Modern British Army and thehistory of the castle.

With over 30,000 artefacts and a related archivalmaterial, it covers the service of the county reg-iments over 250 years.

With much of its material being donated by localfamilies, it perpetuates the service of the men ofShropshire since 1755. It has comprehensivecollections of uniforms, decorations and medals,silverware, china and many other colourful andinteresting items of local and even nationalmportance.

Admission: 3.00 for adults; 2.00 concessions.1.00 child 5-17

SPRing oPening HouRS

Monday 17th February 2014 to Friday 23rd May2014Mon, Tue Weds, Fri, Sat: 10.30am to 4pm

NOTE: open Easter Sunday 20th April 2014SuMMeR oPening HouRS

Saturday 24th May 2014 to Sunday 14thSeptember 2014Mon, Tue Weds, Fri, Sat: 10.30am to 5pmSunday 10.30am to 4pm

auTuMn oPening HouRS

Monday 15th September 2014 to Saturday 20thDecember 2014Mon, Tue Weds, Fri, Sat: 10.30am to 4pm

WinTeR CLoSuRe

Monday 22nd December 2014 to Sunday 15thFebruary 2015Note: Four and under, students and regimentalveterans are admitted free of charge.Postcode: SY1 2AT Telephone : 01743-358516

www.shrpshrrmtlmsm.c.

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The Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre is theperfect place to start your exploration of theShropshire Hills.

There is loads going on at the centre. You arewelcome to just pop in for a coffee or stay forthe day visiting the Secret Hills exhibition,exploring Onny Meadows, taking part in an

activity... you'll find a summary of what's at thecentre on this page, and can follow the links tofind out more.

h Scrt Hlls hbt

Tells some of the stories of the Shropshire Hills.You can meet our mammoth and look inside anIron Age roundhouse. The panoramic hot air

balloon film lets you look at this stunning areafrom a unique perspective. Admission chargesapply to this part of the centre only.

Th llr

A programme of exhibitions by local artists andcraftspeople throughout the year.

op HrsTuesday to Sunday: 10am to 4pm

The last entry to the Secret Hills exhibition is3.30pm and the caf closes at 4pm.

Telephone 01588-676000Craven Arms

www.shrpshrhllsdscvrctr.c.

SHRoPSHiReH LLS

D SCoVeRyCenTRe

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A picturesque working water mill with 38ft. castiron waterwheel producing wholemeal flourtraditionally. Family owned for 250 years.Personal guided tours for all visitors, by millersAlan & Peter George.

Daniels Mill is set in the idyllic Shropshirecountryside, deep in a wooded valley crossed bya 19th Century viaduct carrying the Severn

Valley Railway to Bridgnorth. Visitors are takenback in time when the mill wheel turns and asteam train crosses the viaduct at the same time.Heavy French Burr millstones turn locallygrown wheat into flour in the traditional wayused for centuries.

There are conducted tours for all visitors to themill. A small gift shop is open and 100%wholemeal flour is available for sale. The tea

room offers scones made from our own flour.

Organised parties and schools are welcome byprior appointment throughout the year. Eveningparties accepted throughout the year. Please

allow up to 2 hours to visit. Reductions forparties numbering 20 and over. Lightrefreshments available by arrangment - see thewebsite for more details. Newly re-opened for2012 the Stables Tearoom, serving light bitesand drinks.

DrctsDaniels Mill is brown sign posted fromBridgnorth. From the Severn Valley Railway in

Bridgnorth (Holybush Road) turn onto B4363Cleobury Mortimer road. After mile turnright on to the B455 towards Eardington.Daniels Mill is situated approx mile on right.

Prcs5.00 Adults, 4.00 Concessions

op TmsEaster - end of October, 11am-4pm

Telephone 01746 762753www.dlsmll.c.

DanieLSMiLL

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The Museum has a varied collection of objectsto show the history of Bridgnorth from thestone and bronze ages through the civil warperiod to it's industry influence on many otherindustries. The Town was a very busy markettown with it's cattle market and supportingshops, printers, theater and public houses andone time race course. The displays have anumber of clay pipes and coins and information

on the first high pressure steam engine in theform of a model of Trevethic engine that pulledthe first fare paying passengers, beforeStevensons' Rocket.

The Museum was created by the Historic Societyin 1951 for the Festival of Britain and is housedin the old Burghes room over the Northgate,hence the name and was part of the NormanCastle, and Moat Street is near by. It's website is

www.brdrthmsm.r.which showsthe collection and opening times during theperiod from Easter to the end of October eachyear. The website also shows the winter lectures

each month until April and new members arealways welcome either by attending one of thelectures or contacting the membership secretaryon 01746 762206 or the Curator on 01746711486

The Museum now has Accreditation by the ArtsCouncil, England which means it is nationallyrecognised as one that has well displayed and

protected artefacts to the national standard andleading to TV companies contacting and loaningan item to be televised.

Opening times: from Easter to October -Saturdays 1.30 pm to 4 pmSundays 11.00 am to 4 pmIn school holidays during this opening period:Monday-Friday 11.00 am - 4.00 pmSaturday 1:30 pm - 4.00 pmSunday 11 am - 4.00 pmPostcode : WV16 5AE

BRiDgnoRTHS

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Signpost - page 46

Whitchurch is Shropshire's only town to becontinually inhabited on the same site sincebeing built in Roman times.

The current displays, exhibits, and activities inthe Heritage Centre reflect the town's historic

roots.

Many of the exhibits are geared towards childrenand are very much hands-on with a RomanArchaeology sand pit where coins and a skullcan be uncovered. There are three brassCaldecott rubbing plaques from which buddingartists can create their own masterpieces to takehome.

There is also a giant puzzle depicting a typicalnursery rhyme theme created from anillustration by the famous Victorian IllustratorRandolph Caldecott. The Caldecott Galleryhouses a fine collection of artwork, books,photographs & memorabilia relating to thecomposer Edward Germanand artist RandolphCaldecott.

2014 op Hrs:

Monday 10.00 - 4.00Tuesday 10.00 - 4.00Wednesday closedThursday 10.00 - 4.00Friday 10.00 - 4.00

Saturday 10.00 - 1.00

FREE ENTRYAll areas wheelchair accessibleDisabled parking adjacent to Heritage Centre,Visitor Information, Customer Service Point,and a selection of gift items for sale.

Ctct Dtls :

12 St Mary's Street

WhitchurchShropshireSY13 1QY


Trst ifrmt [email protected] & Cllct Qrs

[email protected]

www.whtchrch-hrt.c.

www.facebook.com/whitchurchheritagecentretwitter.com/WHSHC

WHiTCHuRCH

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Vstr & ehbt Ctr

The Centre is set within Oswestry ParishChurchyard formerly called Holbache House itwas the second oldest grammar school founded

in 1407. It now houses Oswestry TouristInformation centre, a coffee shop and artexhibitions which change monthly.

Opening times; Every day except Sunday 10am-4pm. Longer opening in summer.

Entry is free

Postcode SY11 2TETelephone 01691 662753www.oswestry-welshborders.org.ukescape@oswestry-welshborders.org.uk

oswstr w Msm

Housed on the 3rd floor of the Guildhall, LiftAccess available, in the former Oswestry

Magistrates Court rooms.

As part of their plans to make Oswestry TownMuseum a true reflection of the History of theTown of Oswestry the group behind the project

have announced that the Museum will include aTimeline stretching from the formation of therocks that Oswestry sits on right up to thepresent day and with space to update it in thefuture on an annual basis. Mark Hignett for thegroup said We have to remember that what happens

this year is next years history adding in particularvisitors to the town next year could be interested in what

happened the previous year as being part of the history of

the town.

For more information:www.swstrmsm.r.

E-Mail: info oswestrymuseum.org.ukTelephone : Mark on 01948 781079

Open on market daysWednesday 10 4Friday 10 4Saturday 10 3.30

Other times and group visits bypr or arrangement.

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The Flax Mill Maltings is a unique andinternationally important site, containing sevenlisted buildings including the worlds first ironframed building.

Despite its extraordinary historic importancethat changed the way we live and work today, thebuildings have stood derelict for over thirtyyears. That is all about to change as due to aunique public partnership, of ShropshireCouncil, English Heritage and the Friends of theFlaxmill Maltings. In July 2013 the Flax MillMaltings Partnership received a confirmed grantof 12.8m from the Heritage Lottery Fund(HLF) to support the first phase of its

conservation and redevelopment. This will

transform the heritage site into a visitorattraction as well as a place for learning,workspaces and community use.

The Friends have made these important historicbuildings accessible so that organisations,groups and individuals can explore, learn,participate in and enjoy the unique and variedheritage. Community access in the form ofguided tours and open weekends in May and

September will continue during the constructionphase coordinated by the Friends.

To find out how you can visit or get moreinvolved with the project

visit www.flmll-mlts.c. or call01743 360213.

FLax MiLL

MaLTingS-

SHReWSBuRy

Shrpshr archvs

Signpost - page 48

Do want to trace thehistory of your house orlocal area?

Are you interested infamily history?

Do you have a local history project for school?

Do you need to research historic documents fora legal enquiry?

This is the archives and local studies service forthe historic county of Shropshire, whichincludes the Borough of Telford and Wrekin.

The Archives preserve and make accessibledocuments, books, maps, photographs, plansand drawings relating to Shropshire past andpresent.

To find out more check the websitewww.shrpshrrchvs.r.

op Tms

Monday: ClosedTuesday: ClosedWednesday: 10am-5pm

Thursday: 10am-8pm (advance orders fororiginal items after 5.30pm)Friday: 10am-5pmSaturday: 10am-4pm (advance orders for originalitems)Sunday: Closed

You can also discover the heritage of Shropshireby visiting a Library Local History Centre. It maybe the starting point for inspiration and

encouragement for you to go further with yourown learning and research. There are LocalHistory Centres in libraries at Bridgnorth,Church Stretton, Craven Arms, Ludlow andOswestry.


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Based on a private collection of a localshopkeeper, Mr. Tom Hamar, which in 1932,due to its popularity, was re- housed in part ofthe ground floor of the Town Hall, built in 1780

y the Earl of Powys.

Since those days, under the auspices of the ClunTown Trust (Registered Charity 208408) theMuseum has grown to fill both floors of theTown Hall and houses a multitude of localhistorical and agricultural artefacts from theClun Forest area.

grd Flr The items on display reflect thediversity of Trades in this once self containedmarket town - the centre of a large Farmingcommunity; Smithy, Wheelwright, Clog maker,Saddler, Tailor, Baker, Brewer, to name but afew. It also houses a nationally recognized

collection of Flints which were traded along theClun/Clee Ridgeway.

rst r Here the main theme is localmemorabilia of both the First (1914 1918) andSecond (1939 1945) World Wars, including

niforms of all three Armed Forces, Nursingand Womens Land Army, together with ourphotographic collection and a Digital Photoframe.

Schools, Historical Societies and Clubs are verywelcome and special opening times can bearranged.

We are active members of the ShropshireHeritage Forum and validated providers for TheShropshire Childrens University.

accss fr ll We have audio, Braille and twolarge print guides together with an illuminatedtactile map of Clun and pictures for the use ofvisually impaired visitors. A stairlift is installedfor easy access and a portable ramp available atMa n Entrance.

op msEaster - 31st October

TueSDayS: 2.00pm - 5.00pmSaTuRDayS & Bank HoLiDayS(Mds & Tsds)

11.00am- 1.00pm2.00pm - 5.00pm

For special openings at other times ContactCurator:Email: [email protected]:

www.c msm.r.www.shrpshrhstr.r.

CLun

MuSeuM

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Bishop's Castle's geographical remoteness hasserved to protect its heritage, and the town haskept much of its historic character. Bishop'sCastle Heritage Resource Centre is a volunteer-run activity centre which opened in 2004 tocelebrate local history and keep it within thecommunity for people to use and share. It isowned and run by the House on CrutchesMuseum Collection Trust, which also managesthe House on Crutches Museum.

BCHRC has a secure museum standard store, inwhich the Museum's reserve collection is kept insafety, as well as other artefacts, documents andephemera. You can view some of the collection

online at www.bchrc.co.uk. Individuals andorganisations can deposit their archives in thestore for a small fee. More information ondepositing can be found on the website.

In 2009 BCHRC secured a Heritage LotteryFund grant to develop as a Local History Centre,and the volunteers worked closely with stafffrom Shropshire Archives to identify materialsand resources relating to the Bishops Castle areathat would enable them to help visitors withtheir family history or social history query. Theseresources include parish registers, tithe maps,electoral rolls, census returns and other

documents held at Shropshire Archives. Theseare too bulky and precious to leave Shrewsburyand have therefore been digitally photographed,and can now be viewed on-screen at BCHRC,and selected pages printed. This means thatresearchers can view an image of the originaldocument, with no risk of transcription errors,and of a much higher quality than existingmicrofiche images.

An index of these resources is available atBCHRC or to download from the websitewww.bchrc.co.uk. BHRC is open to visitorsfrom 10.30am to 1.00pm on Thursdays, Fridays& Saturdays or at other times by arrangement.Please phone 01588 630556 (answerphone) oremail [email protected].. BCHRC is at 5Chpl yrd, jst ff Bshp's Cstl's Hh

Strt.

Other facilities and services are offered, fromphotocopying and laminating to specialisedservices such as the production of displays anddigitisation of documents. The small meetingroom is ideal for meetings and workshops up toa maximum of 12 people, and there is a smallrange of equipment for hire,such as display boards. There is a

small charge for these.

BiSHoP'SCaSTLeHeRiTage

ReSouRCeCenTRe

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e House on rutc es Museum n s opsCastle is situated in a remarkable timber framed

uilding dating back to Elizabethan times. It

houses an extensive social history collectioncovering many aspects of community life andagriculture in Bishop's Castle and South WestShropshire. It is tucked away up a cobbled streetadjacent to the Town Hall at the top of the HighStreet.

The story of this unique small town is toldthrough displays of local artefacts and

memorabilia, mostly from the 19th and early20th centuries. Rural life and farming were veryimportant in this area on the remote borders

etween England and Wales, but the townsupported thriving industries such as brewing,shoemaking and tanning. It also provides aglimpse into domestic life at a time whenindustrial innovations began to find their wayinto rural homes across the country.

The first room you enter is the kitchen. Here youwill find a replica cooking range and accessoriesand a display devotedto wash days. There are

also replica items of period costume, and youcan try some of them on! This is also the homefor changing temporary displays or exhibits anditems for sale exclusive to and representative ofthe House on Crutches and Bishop's Castle anddistrict.

Upstairs, the TownRoom displays the

history of localbusinesses. Here youwill find displays on theclog and shoe making industries, the story ofdrovers, also local breweries, chemists, tailorsand other trades in the town.

The Agriculture room is devoted to farming andcountryside pursuits in Bishop's Castlessurrounding rural area. Here is the museums

collection of tools used in and around the homeand farm.

The Parlour houses the museum's collection ofchildrens toys and domestic pastimes from the19th century. The dolls house dates from the1920s and was made locally by an elder brotherfor his young sister. Much of the furniture insideis original. Visiting children enjoy playing with

t e toys n t e ar our.

The museum is managed and staffed byvolunteers, and opening times are generallyweekend afternoons between Easter andMichaelmas. Groups and those requiring tailorededucational visits are welcome at any time duringthe museum's opening season by priorarrangement. Pls ctct th msm

swrp r m v

th wbst www.hcmsm.r. tdscss r rqrmts.

THeHouSe onCRuTCHeS

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Signpost - page 52

Th str f Drt

Its called The Story of Drayton,because thats exactly what it is.

Its all about the Town. Everything

in the Collection was donated by thepeople of Market Drayton, used bythem, and often manufactured bythem. So the families, lifestyle,events, and stories emerge from allthese bits and pieces.... more than10,000 of them, collected over thecourse of nearly thirty years..

In the Shop they sell the Town.

Thats to say you will be given apotted history in five quick chapters, fromearliest times to the present. Theres also theodd diversion and digression.

Dont miss the house behind, where a home ison display.... with the trophies on themantelpiece, china in the dresser, books in thebookcase, medicine in the bathroom, and so on

in kitchen, yard and outhouse. Here, as you canimagine, the past often rubs shoulders with thepresent.

The things you can see range from a prehistoricplant stem to a hand-pulled hearse, a bottlecollection, panoramic school photographs, ahorse-drawn seed drill, lamps, money boxes, andmangles. And youll find stories ranging fromClive of Indias pies to gingerbread secrets, theWC War, and death at the theatre, not tomention Arthur Phillips vertical take-offaircraft of 1908.

op dts from 29th April to 25thOctober at the following times:

Tuesday: 10.30am - 1.00pmWednesday: 10.30am - 1.00pmFriday: 10.30am - 1.00pmSaturday: 10.30am - 1.00pm

Entry is free, but as the Museum is totally run byvolunteers without help from 'the rates', wewould appreciate a donation.

You are assured of a warm welcome, at the sametime helping you share the past (and present) ofthis the largest and most important market townin the area.

53 Shropshire St

Market Drayton,Shropshire, TF9 3DATelephone 01630 654300e-mail [email protected]

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Shfl Lcl Hstr

ehbtShifnal Museum and Archive Centre opened inDecember 2009 in the former Fire Station inShrewsbury Road . The exhibition comprises acollection of over 1900 photographs, local arte-facts and sources of information for local andfamily history research.

The museum holds lots of useful informationon the people in the towns past, such as birthsdeaths and marriages, and census informationight back to 1841.

The Museum is open on Friday afternoons from

2.00 to 4.00, and on Saturday mornings from10.00 to 12.00. There are also special eventsthroughout the year.

Old Fire Station, Shrewsbury Road,Shifnal TF11 8AQ

Admission is FREE and members of the Shifnal

shropshire signpost 2014

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