Castles, Abbeys and Battles of Shropshire Tour

This superb new tour based in lovely Ludlow at the atmospheric Feathers Hotel includes some of Shropshire’s most interesting sights including four castles, two historic towns with walking tours, an abbey, a priory, two churches and a battlefield – all brought to life by your expert historian hosts, Julian Humphrys and Dr Elizabeth Norton, who will also deliver an illiuminating and entertaining lecture each.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrive independently at the Feathers Hotel, Ludlow  from 15.00. This evening there will be a welcome reception, private dinner with wine and a talk by expert Julian Humphrys – “The Welsh Marches”.

Day 2: Ludlow - on foot 
Ludlow is a thriving medieval market town and an architectural gem. The historic town centre is situated on a cliff above the River Teme and is surrounded by the beautiful countryside of south Shropshire and the Welsh Marches - the England-Wales borderlands. Today we have a guided walking tour of this ancient town with Julian and Elizabeth, including St Laurence's Church and Ludlow Castle. Time will be allowed for lunch at one of the many cafes and restaurants in this foodie town (not included). This evening dinner at the hotel and a talk by historian Dr Elizabeth Norton - "Shropshire Life through the Wars of the Roses and the Reformation". 

Day 3: Stokesay, Clun and Croft Castles
Our first visit of the day is to Stokesay Castle, one of the finest fortified manor houses in England. Standing in a peaceful Shropshire valley near the Welsh border, Stokesay has survived remarkably intact since a leading wool merchant, Laurence of Ludlow, built it in the late 13th century. His fine fortified manor house was both comfortable and impressive, designed as a statement of his wealth and power. Today, barely touched by the passage of years, the castle offers a unique insight into life in medieval England.  From here we’ll head to Clun for a light lunch at the White Horse before visiting Clun Castle. In stark contrast to the lavishness of Stokesay, just ruins and earthworks remain of Clun, a Welsh border castle founded shortly after the Norman invasion, but its colourful history will be brought to your life by your hosts. From here to another castle that is more about comfort than defence, Croft, a castellated 17^th century manor house and home to the Croft family to this day. An intimate manor house, grounds, gardens and St Michael and All Angels Church make this a fascinating and enjoyable visit. Evening dinner at the hotel.

Day 4: Much Wenlock, St Mary Magdalene, Shrewsbury Battlefield and Haughmond Abbey
A packed day of variety starts with a visit to Much Wenlock and a guided walk in the capable hands of Julian and Elizabeth, including a visit to the tranquil ruins of the 12^th century Priory. Free time for lunch (not included) in beautiful Much Wenlock before heading to the Church of St Mary Magdalene in the village of Battlefield, which stands in open countryside on the site of the ferocious Battle of Shrewsbury, which took place in 1403, in which Henry IV defeated Henry “Hotspur” Percy. Some 1600 men are said to have died in the battle and subsequently buried at the church.  There will time to visit the Exhibition at Battlefield 1403, before continuing to the final visit of this varied and fascinating tour at Haughmond Abbey, a ruined 12^th century Augustinian abbey close to Shrewsbury. Return to the hotel for approximately 17.30.

NB: Exact order of itinerary may vary according to local conditions and tour managers discretion.

Please note: Post tour extra nights are available at a supplement.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 40 passengers

Tour Grading: This tour has been graded as moderate due to the amount of walking between and around sites, and standing time for viewing. Please note Day 2 is spent all on foot in Ludlow including a 2 hour walking tour involving some uphill sections and some steps. Castle visits include uneven pathways, steps and no lifts, with not many places to sit and rest. Please visit the mobility page on our website, or call our team for more information.

INCLUDED

• Three nights' bed and breakfast at the three-star Feathers Hotel, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Welcome reception 
• First night private three-course dinner with wine 
• Two further dinners at the hotel
• One lunch
• All talks, guided tours, admissions 
• Coach transfers throughout 
• Julian Humphrys and Dr Elizabeth Norton throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Transport to the hotel is not included
• Holiday insurance
• Double for sole use supplement
• Extra nights on a bed and breakfast basis
• Meals other than those stated
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTEL

Feathers Hotel, Ludlow

The beautiful Feathers Hotel, a Grade I listed building with its authentic half-timbered façade, is a landmark building in the heart of beautiful Ludlow. Recently renovated and refurbished facilities here include bar, lounge, restaurant and comfortable bedrooms with all modern amenities including en-suite bathroom, TV, telephone, wifi and tea/coffee making facilities.

Car parking: Parking is available at the Feather’s Hotel private car park subject to availability and is chargeable at £7.50 per night, payable directly to the hotel. Alternatively parking may be found on the surrounding streets and Ludlow’s Galdeford Pay and Display car park which is approximately three minutes away.

Hotel Website