Industrial Heritage

Day 1

If travelling down from the North, pause for a refreshing coffee break at the renowned High Legh Garden Centre in Knutsford, followed by the day’s highlight with an exploration of The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery in Stoke-on-Trent, boasting a free entry policy that invites guests to immerse in a rich collection of ceramics and fine arts.

Heading up from the South, the Gloucester Services on the M5 is not your typical motorway stop. Ample coach parking with a unique restaurant and shop focusing on locally sourced food and community partnerships. Then head up to Kidderminster Railway Museum is a little gem with free entry, everyone can spend a comfortable hour looking at crammed full railway memorabilia and leave with an appetite to visit on a future trip.

The day concludes with a welcoming check-in at the Park House Hotel, offering four nights of comfortable half-board accommodation.

Day 2

Destination Shrewsbury sets the scene for a memorable day, starting with a serene cruise on the River Severn. Participants enjoy the leisure of meandering through the historic cobbled streets at their own pace. The afternoon adventure leads to Love Plants, a specialist plant centre, presenting an array of garden favourites and exotic botanicals for perusal.

Day 3

A picturesque drive through the Shropshire Hills reveals the rustic charm of Acton Scott Historic Working Farm, offering a glimpse into the pastoral life of bygone days. The journey continues to Ludlow, a market town rich in history, inviting explorations of its majestic castle, sacred church, and a vibrant array of independent shops and cafes.

Day 4

The tour dedicates a full day to the Ironbridge Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated as the cradle of the Industrial Revolution. With an ‘All Sites’ ticket, visitors have the opportunity to discover the entirety of the site, including the evocative Blists Hill Victorian Town, the artistic Jackfield Tile Museum, and the innovative Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron, each offering unique insights into the era’s technological advancements.

Day 5

The homeward journey enriches with a visit to the Bridgemere Garden Centre, a place where tranquillity and the beauty of nature blend seamlessly. Following this serene experience, the tour makes a special stop at the Slimbridge Wetland Centre. Here, guests are invited to delve into the wonders of wetland conservation at the comprehensive information centre, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of wildlife habitats. Additionally, the on-site shop offers a curated selection of souvenirs and educational materials, perfect for those looking to take a piece of their adventure home. The day concludes as the group arrives back in the local area by late afternoon, bringing the enriching 5-day tour to a close.