Local Area Information

The Shropshire Hills National Landscape – an 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty'             

Harley is a small village at the foot of the Wenlock Edge landmark with beautiful views across the fields to The Wrekin and the Edge. Its history goes back to Roman times with the site of the roman villa of Yarchester close by and is mentioned in the Domesday book. 

The pretty St Mary’s Church has it’s origins in the 13th Century.

Harley is a Thankful Village which makes it one of the small number of villages in England where all the men returned safely from the First World War.

Much Wenlock (2 miles from Harley) is a small medieval market town with a variety of architectural styles including local stone and black and white timbered buildings. There is a variety of interesting independent local shops where you can purchase fresh meat from the famous Paddy Ryan butcher, pies, quiches and puddings from the Pig and Pie,  together with a regular fruit and vegetable market. There are pubs, restaurants and tea shops to enjoy.                                                                     

Much Wenlock is famous for its connection with Dr William Penny Brookes who, in the 19th century, organised games and arts competitions which went on to inspire the modern Olympic games.

Visitors to Swallows Cottage have enjoyed going to The Edge Arts Centre which has a programme of music, cinema and theatre.

Shrewsbury a town that is almost completely surrounded by the mighty River Severn with access over either the Welsh or the English bridges. Shrewsbury offers a wide variety of places to explore in its medieval streets including the 12th Century Abbey, castle, museum, various shops and markets. Look out for Shrewsbury’s Flower, music and Food Festivals.

                                                                            

Ironbridge a world famous site known as the cradle of industrial revolution,  home to several museums and, of course, the iron bridge itself spanning the River Severn as it makes its way south.  The town itself is full of interesting shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs.

Bridgnorth offers another crossing over the river between the low and high towns. An excellent way to travel between the two is the Victorian funicular railway which will transport you up and down the cliff.   There are often local and international markets held in the High Street.   Not to be missed is a journey on the famous Severn Valley Steam Railway.

Ludlow is a lovely town to spend a day wandering through streets and alleys with interesting shops and large market. Ludlow is famous for its twice yearly food festivals but it lives up to its reputation of being a foodie centre at any time of the year! Don’t miss the specialist food store just outside of the town. 

The area around Much Wenlock is ideal for country walks and there are a number of guides and maps provided in the cottage to inspire you to explore the beautiful Shropshire Hills.

There are many attractions including museums, galleries, historic houses, castles and much more, too many to include here but you will find guides in the cottage and will be spoilt for choice!

Click  Here    for links to websites of interesting places to visit during your stay.