Bishops Castle

Independent brewing and quirky pubs define this small Shropshire market town that sits defiantly against the Welsh border. Bishop's Castle operates on its own terms - three breweries serve a population you could fit in a decent football stadium, and the high street feels refreshingly untouched by chain stores.

The town sprawls along steep hillsides with narrow streets that climb towards the Shropshire Hills. From here, serious walkers tackle Linley Hill and The Rock, both offering proper views across the Welsh Marches. Nipstone Rock towers above the landscape to the south - the nature reserve around it makes for decent rambling when the weather's right.

Saint Walburga's Catholic Church at nearby Plowden shows off some fine stonework, though most visitors come for the walking rather than the ecclesiastical architecture. The countryside rolls away in all directions, with Norbury Hill providing another solid climb for those wanting to earn their pint.

Getting here takes commitment. Shrewsbury lies 20 miles northeast - your best bet by car along winding A-roads that remind you this corner of Shropshire doesn't rush for anyone. The nearest train station is miles away in Craven Arms, so most people drive.

Staying at one of the local parks makes perfect sense. Mountain Edge Shropshire offers log cabins and camping pods for those wanting comfort after a day on the hills, while Wild Valley Glamping provides a more luxurious base in the Shropshire Hills. Several smaller sites like Woodbatch Camping & Glamping and Small Batch Camp Site cater to traditionalists who prefer canvas to creature comforts. All put you within striking distance of both the town's excellent ales and the surrounding peaks.