Retired men in Market Drayton are finding more than just a place to make things—they’re discovering friendship, learning, and laughter.
A Shed Full of Life
Tucked away at Greenfields in Market Drayton, Market Drayton Mens Shed opens its doors every Wednesday and Friday from 10:30 am to 1 pm. It’s not a formal workshop—there are no set classes—but a welcoming space where men can learn skills one-to-one, tackle creative projects, or simply enjoy each other’s company.
Helen from Make It Market Drayton visited in November, during Men’s Mental Health Month, to see the group in action. She joined in for tea and a wagon wheel, chatting with Shedders and experiencing the camaraderie first-hand.
“We talk about everything from politics to prostate. Men are rubbish at talking, but it works when you’re shoulder-to-shoulder making something.”
Making, Learning, and Sharing
The shed’s projects are as varied as its members. Shedders have repaired trolleys for hospital pet therapy dogs, built card holders for care home residents to make card games easier, and cleared forest school areas at local schools. Recently, the group has been preparing items for the Festival of Lights, raising funds to support tools, electricity, and materials for future projects.
“We like to raise just a bit of money so we can then fund some of those community projects we’ve done for schools and other local individuals.”
Members range from skilled DIYers to complete beginners. Pete, who had never used a lathe before joining, explained:
“Everybody here helps each other. If you struggle, you just ask, and someone will show you how to do it.”
Ashley, who joined in January, added:
“It gets you out the house, stops you getting bored… Get a cup of tea and a wagon wheel.”
Friendship Over a Cup of Tea
While learning skills and completing projects is important, it’s the social side that draws many men in. Bill, a long-time Shedder, said:
“I only come for the company… a cup of tea and a chocolate biscuit—you can’t go wrong with that.”
The shed provides a safe space for men to discuss all kinds of topics, including health matters that might otherwise be kept private. One Shedder explained:
“Openly saying, ‘Oh, I had the same issue,’ and then having the confidence to make an appointment to talk to a doctor. Having friends around helps—it’s half the battle.”
Creativity with a Purpose
From rustic planters made from old pallets to elaborate Christmas pudding decorations for the town council, the shed is buzzing with creativity. Shedders often invent projects as they go along:
“We just make up ideas as we go along. There’s about five of us involved, and the pudding itself fits on a big box painted like a present. We all just knock ideas about—you never know what’s coming next.”
Join the Shed
Market Drayton Mens Shed welcomes any retired man looking for friendship, learning, or a safe space to chat. The group shows that retirement doesn’t have to mean slowing down—it can be a time to make, laugh, learn, and build friendships.
“It wouldn’t be the same on your own. There’s a lot of banter, a lot of learning, and yes, plenty of wagon wheels.”
Whether it’s crafting decorations, helping local schools, or enjoying tea and conversation, Market Drayton Mens Shed is about more than projects—it’s about creating community.
At the moment, the Shed is at full capacity, so they’re not taking on new members right now. However, there is a waiting list for anyone keen to join in the future. If you are interested in knowing more about the group or are able to offer any form of support, please make contact via the Market Drayton Mens Shed Facebook page.
