Gorge-ous Severn Valley

Day 1

We depart the local area and make a stop for lunch before arriving at the 4* Telford Hotel mid-afternoon, ready to settle in and get acquainted with the facilities on site.

Day 2

This morning we visit the RAF Museum Midlands at Cosford (free entry). Originally a training airfield which now tells the fascinating story of the RAF and its thousands of servicemen and women and hosts a collection of historic aircraft in its museum. Visit the National Cold War Exhibition with its eye-catching architecture and design. Discover Cold War stories & explore thrilling displays of aircraft, iconic cars, models, tanks and even life-sized Russian dolls. Marvel at the world's oldest Spitfire and several other classic aircraft in the War in the Air Hangar, or fly with the Red Arrows in the 4D Experience. This afternoon we visit Wightwick Manor and Gardens. Pronounced "Whittick", the house is a family home full of Pre-Raphaelite art and William Morris interiors.

Day 3

Today we make our way to Bridgnorth, where we have time to explore the historic market town, before enjoying a journey on the vintage hauled Severn Valley Railway. Sit back and admire the scenery of the Worcestershire and Shropshire countryside as the railway hugs the Severn Valley on its way to the town of Bewdley, with its pretty gardens and lovely Georgian architecture.

Day 4

Enjoy a unique and leisurely cruise in Shrewsbury along the famous and very picturesque River Severn loop. Shrewsbury, the birthplace of Charles Darwin, is arguably the finest Tudor town in England and is home to an abbey, many black & white half-timbered Tudor buildings, and an imposing castle. This afternoon we travel back in time with a visit to Blists Hill Victorian Town, this living history museum vividly re-enacts life in Ironbridge from the early 1700's to the Victorian era. Meet some (almost) real Victorians in their authentic shops and cottages, buy curious goods from a bygone era and watch tradespeople in action in their atmospheric workshops and factories.

Day 5

We depart the hotel after a leisurely breakfast and return home with a lunch stop on route, arriving back late afternoon.

D=Dinner, B=Breakfast