The Locks

You'll find yourself in proper woodland territory here, with The Locks delivering exactly what its name suggests - a series of water features carved through dense forest near Market Drayton. It's the sort of place that rewards a slow walk rather than a quick tick-box visit. The appeal lies in following the water course as it drops through the trees, with moss-covered banks and the gentle sound of flowing water creating something genuinely peaceful.

Walkers get the most from this one. It's not a strenuous trek, but it does demand decent boots and a bit of patience to navigate the uneven ground and potentially muddy sections. You're looking at a couple of hours if you want to do it properly, exploring the various locks and soaking in the woodland atmosphere. Bring the family and kids old enough to manage uneven terrain will find it interesting enough - though it won't keep them entertained for hours.

If you're staying at Shropshire Glamping just down the road, The Locks makes a cracking morning walk before heading back for lunch. It's free to access, which is a bonus, though facilities are minimal so plan accordingly. The woodland character means it's best visited when dry - after heavy rain it becomes slick and less appealing. Winter can be moody and atmospheric, but muddy. Autumn brings decent light filtering through the canopy, and spring sees proper woodland life returning. Honestly, it's less 'destination' and more 'worthwhile detour' if you're in the area exploring Shropshire's walking routes.