Hodnet Hall Gardens - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

A beautiful garden which stands in a lovely rural location in a quiet village in north-eastern Shropshire, not far from Market Drayton. The Grade II-listed timber-framed hall was built in the 16th century, and is not open to the public, but it does form a lovely backdrop for these beautiful gardens. Covering 4 acres, it consists of a series of linked garden “rooms” filled with modern plantings.

Hawkstone park follies is a magical place to visit, 100 acres of grade 1 listed lanscape, events, activities, walks and much more. Hawkstone Hall itself was established by Richard Hill of Hawkstone, also known as 'The Great Hill', circa 1707, whilst the follies, estate and reputation were mainly established by his nephew and heir Sir Rowland Hill, 1st Baronet Hill of Hawkstone (1705–1783) and Sir Richard Hill, 2nd Baronet in the 18th century.

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 ruins are from two different eras: a medieval stronghold and an Elizabethan era manor house. The buildings have been out of use since the 18th century.

Battlefield Falconry Centre has a wonderful collection of over 30 birds, and a good variety of species of owl, hawk, and falcon. There is a Hawk Walk, a Bird of Prey Experience, and a Bird Handling session to choose from, all of which give older kids a chance to get close to, and even fly some beautiful birds. Full training and equipment are provided, plus some interesting information about the birds from the experienced falconer.

Haughmond Abbey is a ruined 12th-century Augustinian abbey in a lovely rural setting. The abbey roots go back to the 11th century when a small religious community was established here. The buildings fell into disrepair and the church was largely destroyed, although the remains of some of the domestic buildings remain impressive. The site is now in the care of English Heritage and is open to the public during the summer.

Haughmond Hill is a large woodland that is very popular with dog walkers and visitors wanting easy walks with nice views. It has many rough paths, two surfaced trails and a good car park. The hill has several dubious connections with the Battle of Shrewsbury in 1403. Queen Eleanor's Bower is a small enclosure on the hill from which the wife of Henry IV of England supposedly watched the battle's progress.