Set in six acres of grassy meadows on the edge of Much Wenlock town, The Withies Campsite is a place characterised by the traits of almost every settlement nearby: tiny, quaint, traditional and, quite simply, a lovely place to be. The large, gently sloping field is actually cordoned off by a wooden fence into a three acre camping space. And with a restriction to just 15 pitches in total, campers will find space, seclusion and no sight of a queue for the campsite facilities. These, in turn, are newly fitted features to the site that is still in its early days, with a wooden shower block recently fitted to accompany the existing toilets and chemical disposal point on site.
New for 2015, The Withies introduce their brand new Shepherd's Hut which sleeps 2, and Soulpad 5m bell tents. These pristine glamping getups are in prime position to enjoy the stunning surrounding views. Ideal for a couple or a family of up to four, they sit atop raised decking with a seating area, and will be furnished with rugs, solar lighting, a double futon bed, two singles good quality air beds or a double on request.
An exclusive fire pit, complete with cooking utensils and cutlery and crockery is provided. Solar lighting and lantern add to the ambiance. All quests need to bring is their own bedding, and relax.
Owners Claire and Carol take a great deal of pride in the site, something that is apparent by the welcoming atmosphere of the place and their attentive attitude to all of the guests. They supply a collection of outdoor games for kids and sacks of logs for those who wish to have a campfire in the raised fire pits provided. They are also both keen horse riders and welcome others to bring their own steeds to the campsite, turning them out to graze the neighbouring paddock.
Whether by foot or by hoof it’s a short trot into Much Wenlock, a tiny town where a cluster of Tudor, Jacobean and Georgian buildings dot the high street, their architecture only overshadowed by the beautiful Wenlock Priory. While it may be the most accessible destination, The Withies acts as an excellent base for a host of other pleasant towns. Historic Ironbridge, gastronomic Ludlow and ancient Shrewsbury are all a short drive away, enclosed by the rolling Shropshire hills and winding British waterways. The setting makes the site ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and it goes without saying that the local trails and bridleways should be tackled at some point, rewarding walkers with exquisite views. The Jack Mytton Way will lead you back up onto the Wenlock Edge where guests can keep an eye out for Ippikin’s stolen goods or test their fate with a call to the erstwhile villain. The story tells that those who stand on the escarpments and say “Ippikin, Ippikin, keep away with your long chin” will be pushed over the edge by the ghost of the man himself. Or perhaps it’s safer just to try your hand at paragliding. Courses are offered nearby.
Its a short stroll into Much Wenlock (01952 727679), its beautiful high street leading to The Guildhall (01952 727679), and the ancient Wenlock Priory (01952 727466). Those interested in the history of the area should head to Ironbridge (01952 433424), named after the 1770s bridge built across the River Severn as it gouges through the hills. The village has a fascinating industrial heritage and now hosts the Museum of the Gorge (01952 432405), Museum of Iron (01952 433424), Darby Houses, Jackfield Tile Museum (01952 884124), Coalport China Works Museum (01952 580650) and Tar Tunnel. The Withies is on the fringes of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (01588 674080) with a host of excellent walks on the doorstep and 70 miles worth of bridleways for those on horse back. The Wenlock Way and Jack Mytton Way both head up onto the Wenlock Edge, with breathtaking views, while further west in the hills paragliding and gliding (01588 650206) can both be tried. Shrewsbury (01743 261919) and Ludlow (01584 875053) are also both nearby, the former tucked within a tight bend of the River Severn, the latter perched on a hilltop. Both make for excellent day trips.
It is a 10 minute walk into Much Wenlock Town, with a supermarket for grocery shopping and a host of good pubs and restaurants. The Gaskell Arms (01952 727212) is closest, but further in town spots like The Fox Inn (01952 727292) or The Talbot Inn (01952 727077), with its ye olde charm and tasty grub, are better options. The George and Dragon (01952 727312) is the most traditional old boozer in town and dog friendly too. For lunch time options, The Wenlock Deli (01952 727429) and The Priory Tea Rooms (01952 728523) both do light meals.
