Dog-friendly Shropshire
With varied landscapes featuring rolling hills, rivers, canals, and endless footpaths through fields and forests, Shropshire is a wonderful place for an adventurous dog-friendly escape. Whether you opt to explore the idyllic countryside, or uncover the heritage of the various medieval market towns, you and your pooch are sure to have a trip to remember.
- Bridgnorth, EnglandThe Knowle is a large, Grade II listed, part-Georgian, part-Victorian house adjoining another property. Enoying a prominent position within a mile of Bridgnorth, it is located in the heart of the Shropshire countryside overlooking the River Severn. The spacious gardens of approximately ¾ of an acre feature a large barbecue area, plus a climbing frame and a swing for children. Internally, this holiday property boasts good-sized rooms ideal for family or group get-togethers, a snooker/billiard room and wi-fi.
There is easy access to the town and the River Severn, and it is just a 2-minute walk to the local pub and restaurant. Local attractions include the Cliff Railway, the Severn Valley Railway and Visitor Centre, Ironbridge Gorge and Blists Hill Victorian Town museums. Walking, cycling, golf, fishing and horse riding nearby. Shop 1½miles, pub 200 yards. £322From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Shrewsbury, EnglandDiscover Old Church Farm, a truly wonderful country home in the rural village of Hinstock, set in north Shropshire. This incredible property has that all important wow factor that sets your holiday apart from all others. Sleeping up to ten guests, escape the trappings of fast paced day-to-day life with your loved ones in tow and enjoy a relaxing break in the beautiful countryside between the market towns of Newport and Market Drayton. The amazing living spaces are perfect for relaxing in with your loved ones. These incredible rooms have character with big, exposed beams as well as plenty of natural light. Gather around the log-burner in the spacious living room with your friends and family, staying nice and toasty all year round. When the weather’s warm open the glass bi-fold doors from the kitchen and let that fresh air in! The five bedrooms are lovely and comfy and offer you and your group a lovely night’s sleep. There’s a master kingsize bedroom with en-suite facilities, as well as three further double rooms. There is then one room with a single day bed which can extend into a further single bed - which is great for children. The family bathroom has a luxurious roll top bath with a traditional shower attachment.
On summer days, when the weather is good, you’ll want to soak up the sunshine and sit and enjoy the large garden or hop into the hot tub for a relaxing soak. There’s a pizza oven and a gas barbecue to enjoy some al fresco dining, as well as the pretty lawned area where the children can play.
Take a walk around the village where you will find a small but well stocked village shop with a post office, a friendly community pub and a children’s playground which are only a 7-minute walk away. There are no direct bus routes in or out of the village, however, Newport (approximately 11 minutes’ drive away) and Market Drayton (approximately 11 minutes’ drive away) offer supermarkets, independent shops, cafés, bars, and restaurants to suit all tastes along with the weekly country market, monthly farmers’ market, canal walks and swimming pools/leisure centres, you have the ideal places to discover on your holiday.
Ironbridge, the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, (approximately 32 minutes’ drive away), has plenty to see and do for all the family. Shrewsbury (approximately 30 minutes’ drive away), where ’A Christmas Carol’ was filmed on location, is full of finds to be discovered by foot or by boat. The River Severn is a must, as is the café culture, the castle and the churches that dominate Shrewsbury’s famous skyline. For the more adventurous travel seekers there are various walks and outdoor activities in Shropshire including Hawkstone Follies, an unforgettable day out for all the family with hidden caves, gullies, secret passages and much more.
To exploring Shropshire’s woodlands and countryside, or just sitting back relaxing and taking in the tranquillity of the house, Old Church Farm promises an idyllic holiday retreat.£176From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Ludlow, EnglandIntroducing Dower House Lodge, a luxurious retreat perfect for friends, families, and multi-generational groups. This exquisite property sleeps eight and boasts three spacious bedrooms and a range of stunning features throughout. The first bedroom is thoughtfully designed with families in mind, featuring a kingsize bed and two single beds which can be configured to meet your needs. This room offers a comfortable and versatile space for children and parents alike to relax and unwind in with a sofa, coffee table and Smart TV. Prepare to be captivated by the master bedroom, a haven of indulgence. The en-suite bathroom is a testament to opulence, with its rock star-worthy amenities. Pamper yourself in the double sinks, revel in the spacious walk-in shower, or luxuriate in the free-standing tub, allowing for a truly rejuvenating experience.
The ground floor is home to a kingsize room, perfect for multi-generational families seeking convenience and comfort. Adjacent to this room, a deluxe shower room awaits, complete with a walk-in spa shower. The heart of the house lies in the open-plan kitchen and living room, providing a central hub for socialising and relaxation. This contemporary space encourages effortless flow and connectivity, allowing you to prepare meals while engaging in conversations with loved ones. There is a separate dining room seating and dining eight. Whether you’re cooking a delicious feast or simply enjoying a cosy night in, this harmonious blend of culinary and living areas ensures a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Outside, immerse yourself in nature as you explore the extensive grounds, including a private orchard equipped with children’s play equipment. Unwind on the terrace, complete with a luxurious hot tub and bar caddy, perfect for indulging in your favourite drinks. From the top garden, revel in breath-taking views of the rolling vistas stretching as far as the eye can see. Enjoy the cosy ambiance around the fire pit with ample seating for dining al fresco and barbecuing, creating an idyllic setting for relaxation and conversation. Experience tranquillity and natural beauty at its finest at Dower House Lodge.
Tenbury Wells is a charming market town known for its picturesque countryside, historic buildings, and thriving local community. It offers a range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, cafes, and traditional pubs. The surrounding area is known for its beautiful landscapes, with rolling hills, meandering rivers, and scenic walking trails.£145From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Escape to the charming town of Ironbridge and experience a stay at The Wild Cherry Tree Retreat. A delightful, semi-detached, 2 story cottage that comfortably sleeps up to six guests across three bedrooms. This character property exudes charm with its original features, offering a cosy and inviting atmosphere for couples, groups of friends, and small families. The cottage boasts a lovely, spacious ground floor, perfect for relaxation and gatherings, while remote workers will appreciate the dedicated workspace included, too. The Wild Cherry Tree Retreat has been thoughtfully decorated throughout, ensuring a stylish and comfortable stay. Outside is a lovely, enclosed area where you can sit enjoy your morning brew and decide on what to do with your day and let your dog enjoy roaming free.
Beyond the cottage, explore the historic town of Ironbridge where you’ll find museums, outdoor activities, and a variety of cafe and restaurant options. There’s Blists Hill, a Victorian village to explore. Enginuity, an indoor science and engineering museum is perfect for a visit with children, especially on rainy days! It has plenty of hands-on puzzles and challenges and can be found just down the road from the Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron, Darby Houses, Jackfield Tile Museum, and Coalport China Museum. There is plenty to see and do! Or perhaps choose an activity on the River Severn... if you don’t have your own canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard, you can hire one from Shropshire Raft Tours to get on the water and see this iconic location from a different perspective.
Further afield is Shrewsbury, a medieval market town full of independent boutiques, giftshops and galleries, prepare to be delighted. There’s a vibrant, and exciting indoor market hall too, packed with quirky shops and lovely food stalls, which has been voted Britain’s favourite market.£76From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Church Stretton, EnglandSet in a rural location, this luxurious property offers guests a fantastic spot to enjoy the Shropshire countryside with the addition of a fantastic private wood-fired Swedish hot tub, which is set in the garden of the property along with a private BBQ hut. If you are looking for a luxury, romantic holiday in a tranquil location, this property would be the perfect place for you! Waiting for you will be chocolates and flowers and a welcome pack for you; the owners have thought of everything to make this is a luxurious and comfortable stay.
The area is perfect for walkers, with the Shropshire Way passing through the village and within easy reach of the Long Mynd, Wenlock Edge, Stiperstones and Offa’s Dyke path. Shropshire is host to some delightful small towns such as Church Stretton and Much Wenlock, both with a good variety of individual shops and pubs. Bridgenorth, Ironbridge, Shrewsbury, Hereford, Worcester and mid Wales are easily accessible.
There are plenty of things to see and do including a visit to the Stiperstones Nature Reserve, walks along the Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd, or guests can hire a canoe and enjoy the views that the River Severn has to offer. Guests can also pay additionally for spa packages, (a fully insured company offer this service), locally sourced full English breakfasts, pink or white Champagne and strawberries and wood baskets to fuel the multi fuel burner.
Set on one level, this luxury property has been tastefully decorated throughout to a high standard with Farrow and Ball paint. The open plan kitchen/living area includes electric cooker and hob along with a wood burner. The bedroom has a double bed and a luxurious, romantic copper bath within the bedroom; a family shower room completes the inside.
There is a private garden space with patio, furniture, and as mentioned, access to a wonderful bbq hut, perfect for cooler evenings to reminisce together. A Swedish wood-fired hot tub is situated within the garden and seats four guests, making it the perfect spot to sit and sip champagne. Mary’s Croft includes exclusive use of the bbq hut, the wood-fuelled hot tub (prepared and heated for your arrival), bathrobes & slippers, bubbly, flowers and chocolates, and Cole and Lewis products to enhance your bathing experience.
These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 14 guests.£156From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Oswestry, EnglandLuxury barn conversions perfect for groups looking to get away and explore the surrounding area with a luxury base to return to, including a private hot tub within the garden. There is plenty to see and do including walks, as well as the Cheshire Cycleway (Regional Route 70) and the Llangollen branch of the Shropshire Union Canal. Shrewsbury town is approximately 30 minutes’ drive away, or you can get on the train at Whitchurch station just a 10-minute walk away from the barn and boasts an array of bars, shops and restaurants. After a busy day sightseeing, guests can return to the property and enjoy the private garden with garden furniture.
Whilst the barns enjoy a peaceful rural setting, they are still very close to amenities. Whitchurch town centre is within walking distance and includes an array of excellent shops, pubs and restaurants in the town. It’s home to a restaurant recognised by the Michelin Guide and awarded a place in the 2020 guide. The delightful market town has many splendid buildings from medieval, Tudor and Georgian times, all dominated by St. Alkmund’s Church. Internationally renowned for its clock production dating back to the 1650s, Whitchurch is known as ’the Home of Tower Clocks’, and a fine example can be seen on one of the barns.
Attractions close by, include Ellesmere with its beautiful lakes, 11 miles, a variety of National Trust mansions and gardens, and the historical city of Chester with its excellent shopping and famous races, 25 miles, with the Blue Planet Aquarium close by. Chester Zoo, as seen on TV’s ’Secret Life of a Zoo’, is only 30 minutes away and is one of Europe’s largest zoos, helping endangered animals from all over the world.
Other places of interest include Hawkstone Follies, Cheshire Ice Cream Farm, BeWILDerwood, Alderford Lake, RAF Cosford, Fenn’s and Whixall Mosses, and the incredible Ironbridge Gorge.
These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 22 guests.£118From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Oswestry, EnglandThis stunning 18th-century, semi-detached house has been lovingly converted into a self-catering holiday cottage which sleeps up to twelve people between six bedrooms. Vyrnwy Bank is the perfect destination for larger groups of friends or family looking to take in the dramatic beauty and historic charm in this part of Powys, Wales. In total there are six bedrooms spread across the two floors, some with en-suite facilities and some sharing bathrooms. Vyrnwy Bank is well-furnished throughout to provide ample accommodation. The house has so much to offer and boasts some traditional features such as exposed beams and a wonderful fireplace including a wood burning stove.
The village centre of Llanymynech is a short walk away and offers a couple of local shops, pubs and the market town of Oswestry is just a short drive away where there are a variety of shops and restaurants to try. Being so close to the Llanymynech Rocks Nature Reserve and some five miles to the Berwyn Mountain Range, there is an abundance of scenic walks and cycle trails to explore. Vyrnwy Bank is set on the Powys/Shropshire border and is a brilliant base for discovering this beautiful area. Perfectly situated for National Trust and English Heritage properties, World Heritage sites, as well as a wealth of designated footpaths and bridleways. Whatever you get up to during your holiday, this house is the ideal retreat to return to. Pub and restaurant ½ mile.£192From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Oswestry, EnglandThis marvellous farmhouse offers groups of up to eight a picturesque stay in rural Shropshire, you will instantly feel relaxed here, with the calm surroundings.
Located on a working farm set back from the farmhouse, in a village called Rhydycroesau, just over four miles from Oswestry. The house is wonderful and remote, offering you plenty of peace and quiet, yet there are lots of country walks right from your doorstep, including the Rhydycroesau Woodlands and the Oswestry Old Racecourse Common Heritage Site to explore. Cynynion Uchaf has a homely and comfortable interior, with aspects of character showcasing the original beams, along with little touches of rural charm. You will love the comfy furnishings, hidden cupboards, and beautiful original red brick floors. There are plenty of seating areas to spend time together and younger guests can retreat to the snug with an impressive inglenook fireplace, electric log fire, leather sofa, two reclining armchairs and a TV with Firestick and DVD player for entertainment. The conservatory is a light filled space overlooking the beautiful garden where you can sit and enjoy the birdsong.
You are near to some great places to visit in and around Oswestry, including The British Ironwork Centre, Park Hall the Countryside Experience, Cae Glas Park, Oswestry Iron Age Hill Fort, Oswestry Castle and St Oswalds Church. A short drive takes you to National Trust houses at Chirk, Erddig, Attingham Park and Powis Castle.
Lake Vyrnwy, Snowdonia National Park and the Canal World Heritage Site at Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, near to Llangollen are also popular places to visit. The Roman City Chester provides a good day out, with city walls to walk, the oldest racecourse and the largest Roman Amphitheatre in Britain, a 1000-year-old Cathedral, plus the Zoo! As you are staying in the grounds of a working farm, the family who own the property and run the farm are always happy to say hello and help in any way they can to make your stay as comfortable as possible. You really are surrounded by astounding scenery everywhere you look at Cynynion Uchaf.£177From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Knighton, EnglandJackdaw Cottage sits on the Glyndwr’s Way footpath on the edge of the beautiful town of Knighton, within easy walking distance from the Offa’s Dyke Visitors Centre as well as the restaurants, bars and cafes in the town centre. It is on the south facing slope of a lovely small green valley know as ‘the Cwm’. The stone property is 200 years old with exposed stone walls and oak lintels. It has a large, enclosed garden and patio overlooking the wooded valley with private access to the clear babbling brook. The cottage has been renovated to a high standard in 2022/2023 with some beautiful character features throughout, perfect for a family holiday or romantic break away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. it’s great for children and your four-legged friends to run about in this open space whilst you watch on, with a glass of something nice and listen to the local wildlife.
Throughout the year there are some lively fairs celebrated, and all year round, you will find an array of antique and gift shops, tea rooms, old inns, good food and friendly locals in Knighton. Local attractions include Offa’s Dyke Heritage Centre, Powys Observatory with Planetarium Show, golf, clay pigeon shooting and coarse fishing. The historic town of Ludlow, Hay-on-Wye with its antiquarian bookshops, and Presteigne all host cultural festivals during the summer months and are just a short drive away.£56From price per night based on 7 night stay
- Shrewsbury, EnglandHigh Bank was renovated in June 2023 and rests in front of Pontesford and Earl’s Hills in the beautiful Shropshire village of Pontesbury. Facing south, and slightly elevated, the views stretch out over the Shropshire countryside which is by far the best views in the village. Behind the cottage, the scenery continues and with various public footpaths and walking trails on your doorstep so you are really spoilt for choice. This gorgeous cottage has been lovingly decorated with a combination of farmhouse collections as well as contemporary art and designer fabrics. Combine this with the backdrop and being so close to nature and the outdoors and it’s the perfect home to come back to after a day out exploring.
High Bank has a welcoming, cosy living room which has been tastefully decorated in pale calming tones and fabrics. Snuggle up on the comfortable sofas with a hot chocolate and a good film or just chat the evening away in front of the log burner. You will find a stylish, modern, open-plan kitchen/dining area, which is well-equipped to provide everything you will need for your stay. Meals can be enjoyed at the rustic wooden dining table which has comfy seating, ensuring your mealtimes are a joy. Outside at the back of the cottage is an ideal spot where you can sit and plan your day’s exploring over a delicious morning cup of coffee.
High Bank features two double bedrooms, a kingsize room, and a twin, so whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a family break, it’s ideal. Both bedrooms are elegantly designed in a country-chic style with sumptuous bedding and soft tones and come complete with spacious, modern en-suite bathrooms. As well as the cosy enclosed back garden patio, the spacious front garden has seating to provide a relaxing space for guests to chill out and enjoy the peace and quiet of the surrounding area, overlooking the distinctive, humped hill. This hill roared forth from a volcano some 650 million years ago, and is now is a very popular spot for adventure seekers to explore the many trails. With a panoramic view at the top, it’s well worth the hike up, so just pack your water bottle!
Pontesbury has quite a vibrant community, and benefits from a number of shops, pubs, and restaurants. The area has easy access onto the national cycle route and an array of countryside walks. For the keen golfer, the local club is 3 miles. Shrewsbury, the ancient medieval market town, is only 15 minutes’ drive away. Filled with nearly 800 listed buildings, including the castle and world-famous abbey and a vast majority of independent shops, cafés, and fantastic restaurants there’s plenty to explore to suit everyone. For those seeking more outdoors adventure there’s great mountain biking, or horse riding at Eastridge Woods, with trails to suit all abilities. Other activities within proximity to High Bank include the national trust property, Attingham Park with some fabulous gardens and walks to explore and also Hawkstone Park. Ludlow, renowned for its beautiful architecture and food festivals, and Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage property are within easy reach.£75From price per night based on 7 night stay