13 Free Outdoor Adventures you can do with the Kids in Shropshire this Summer

No Work Wednesdays

When I first started working for myself I was over the moon that I was now in a position to do “Mum things” – like the school run, after school clubs and attend school events. School holidays were fantastic too, my children are quite imaginative and can fuel their own fun, leaving me able to get on with my work, and no childcare fees to worry about, but I did still feel neglectful… (Just to qualify, we were all in the same house, often in the same room, and at no point were the children left unattended, but I felt guilty that I wasn’t there mentally!) So, last Summer I introduced “No Work Wednesdays” – the halfway point of the working week that seemed the perfect day to break up the monotony and devote a day to focus 100% on my boys, avoiding those emails, and sitting in front of the computer all day! It also meant my boys could escape the house and/or garden and do something different – it was a day we all looked forward too!

So in preparation for this summer, over the past couple of weeks, I’ve been carefully poring over Google maps on the search for interesting places we can go over the summer holidays, that are free! I shan’t deny, we are on a tight budget, and we will of course need to cover fuel costs, but I was pleasantly surprised that Shropshire, with its stunning landscapes and rich history, offers plenty of free outdoor activities perfect for any family outing – so long as you don’t mind a bit of a drive, of course!

Here are some of my top picks to make your ‘No Work Wednesday’ a hit with the little ones.

1. The Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)

This vast area offers numerous trails and paths for all levels of walkers. Carding Mill Valley, part of the Long Mynd, is a particular favourite. The kids can paddle in the stream, explore the surrounding hills, and even have a picnic. The views are breathtaking, and the fresh air is sure to tire them out! Long Mynd has been on my list of places to go to since I moved into the area, as I hope to capture the wild ponies on my camera!

2. Severn Valley Country Park

Located between Bridgnorth and Bewdley, this country park offers a mix of woodland and meadows, perfect for a family day out. With well-maintained walking trails, play areas, and plenty of spots for a picnic, it’s an ideal spot for children to run around and explore nature. Plus, there’s a visitor center with educational exhibits that can provide a fun learning experience. There is a charge for parking, but it would appear that the various trails are free.

3. Clun Castle

Clun Castle sits high on a natural rocky mound in a loop of the river Clun, on the edge of the small, picturesque town of the same name. Founded shortly after the Norman Conquest to demonstrate the authority of the English monarchy over this part of the border region, the castle and the nearby settlement prospered in the 13th century thanks to the management of the Fitzalan family, but suffered a number of attacks from across the Welsh border. It was used as a hunting lodge in the 14th century, but was increasingly neglected, and by 1539 the castle was reported as ruinous. It is only the ruins of the once grand castle that remain today, but my boys love a decayed building and the grounds would be a wonderful place for a bit of exploration, a picnic, or even just a different place to kick a football around!

4. Hodnet Countryside Site

For those looking to get their steps in this summer, why not consider one or more of the available walks in Hodnet? There are several to choose from: we walked our first one last weekend and have documented it here! There was also a nice little play area where we parked, including what looked like a little mountain biking area – a sure stop once we have a van and a bike rack!

5. Cheswardine Walks

Another village that’s putting in the effort with their walk offerings is Cheswardine! With 6 various walks available, of differing distances, to suit all members of the family, there’s no excuse not to get out this summer and enjoy the Shropshire countryside!

6. The Quarry Park, Shrewsbury

This beautiful park in the heart of Shrewsbury is a fantastic free option. It boasts large open spaces, a riverside walk, and the stunning Dingle gardens. There’s also a splash park open in the summer, which is perfect for keeping cool on a warm day. Don’t forget to bring a picnic blanket and some snacks!

7. The Mere in Ellesmere

The Mere at Ellesmere is a distinguished and award-winning park that features a picturesque lake, lush gardens, woodland walks, and historic parkland. Located on the edge of the medieval market town of Ellesmere, it is the largest of the nine meres and mosses scattered across the unique Shropshire landscape. The Mere itself spans 46 hectares, making it the largest mere in Shropshire. It was thanks to Google that I discovered this place and offers something further North in Shropshire!

8. Wrekin Hill

For families who love a good hike, Wrekin Hill is a must-visit. The walk to the summit is challenging but manageable for older children, and the panoramic views from the top are spectacular. It’s an excellent way to get some exercise and enjoy the natural beauty of Shropshire.

9. Apley Woods

A lesser-known gem, Apley Woods offers peaceful woodland walks and a chance to spot wildlife. The paths are suitable for all ages, and the woods are perfect for a game of hide-and-seek or a nature scavenger hunt. There’s also a small play area to keep the younger ones entertained.

10. Cosford RAF Museum

Although not purely outdoors, Cosford RAF Museum offers an engaging mix of indoor and outdoor exhibits, with extensive outdoor space for picnics and play. The museum itself is free to enter, and children will love the impressive collection of aircraft and interactive displays. This is a firm favourite in our family, with at least one visit a year taking place. This may not end up as a “No Work Wednesday” visit, and more likely a weekend trip, because Dad will never forgive us if we go without him!

11. Moreton Corbet Castle

The impressive ruins of Moreton Corbet Castle are the product of over 500 years of building. The earliest surviving remains are those of a stone castle begun in about 1200, including a fine gatehouse. The Corbet family remodelled the castle in the 16th century, and the Elizabethan south wing is a rare survival from this period of a bold Italian-inspired design, which was devastated during the Civil War. Fine Corbet monuments fill the adjacent church. Another castle ruins, another adventure for you to make!

12. Mitchell’s Stone Circle

The focus of many local legends, Mitchell’s Fold is a Bronze Age stone circle set in dramatic moorland on Stapeley Hill. It once consisted of some 30 stones, 15 of which are still visible. It is said that during a time of famine, a fairy gave a magic cow that provided an endless supply of milk. One night an evil witch milked her into a sieve. When the cow realised the trick, she disappeared. The witch was turned to stone and a circle of stones was erected around her, to ensure that she could not escape. A great tale to share with children! And another great visit for outdoor adventure and maybe even a picnic!

13. Corbet Wood/Grinshill

A discovery through friends earlier in the year, this was a brilliant little find! With various trails to wander, a bridlepath, and popular with mountain bikers too, it really had something for everyone. We walked to the top of the hill along one of the many routes, to a Trig Point, where we were met with far reaching views across Shropshire and beyond! Check out this photo I took from the top!

Tips for a Great Day Out:

• Pack a picnic: Many of these places have beautiful spots to enjoy a family meal outdoors. If you are on a budget, I always feel a picnic is the most cost effective way to enjoy your day out, plus there is no queuing, and when the children are hungry, there’s no waiting either! Don’t forget plenty of water!
• Dress appropriately: Weather in Shropshire can be unpredictable, so bring layers, hats, waterproofs, and sun protection. Make sure you pop on a good sturdy shoe too, I nearly always opt for my walking boots in these locations.
• Plan ahead: Some locations may require advance booking or have specific visiting hours or are only open certain days, so check their websites before you go. I have helpfully linked them all above for a quick find!
• Bring change: Some of the locations have small parking charges, so it’s always worth keeping a few coins in spare change on your person or in your car.
• Bring activities: A lot of these locations don’t offer any activities other than viewing what’s there. If the walks are short, or there’s nowhere to explore, bring a football, frisbee, or even a simple nature journal along with you! It can add an extra layer of fun to your day out – and let’s be honest, kicking a football near a delapidated castle is far more fun than in your own garden!

Enjoying the great outdoors with your children doesn’t have to be expensive. I’ve been surprised at just how many places I have found in Shropshire that offer a wealth of natural beauty and exciting activities that will make every Wednesday (or any day you choose!) an adventure to remember. So pack your bags, gather the family, and make the most of your ‘No Work Wednesdays’!

Final thoughts: I will be reporting back on any of these that we get to, so be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on our thoughts and adventures! Got your own suggestion? I would love to hear from you! Please comment with your favourite free places below!