Dudmaston Hall Gardens

The gardens at Dudmaston Hall are the real draw here - eighteen acres of proper landscaped grounds that reward a good wander, especially if you've based yourself at Stanmore Hall Touring Park just up the road near Bridgnorth. You get a decent mix of formal Victorian planting, woodland walks, and a kitchen garden that actually looks like people use it rather than some dusty museum piece.

The hall itself is a Queen Anne number, but unless you're really into period architecture, it's the grounds that'll keep you engaged for a couple of hours. There's a lake, some decent specimen trees, and enough variation that you won't find yourself retracing your steps constantly. Kids won't complain if they're the sort who like a bit of exploration, but don't expect themed attractions or adventure playgrounds - this is proper old-fashioned gardening.

It's run by the National Trust, so check their website before you go for current opening hours and admission costs. Spring's obviously cracking if you can time it right - the daffodils and magnolias do their thing properly. Summer's warm but can get busy. The walk from the car park into the main gardens is flat enough, though you'll want decent shoes if there's been rain.

Worth the detour if you're already in the area doing the circuit between Bridgnorth and the other local attractions. As a standalone day out, it depends whether you're the type who gets something from wandering round historic gardens. If you are, you'll be happy here for a good three hours.