Walking Guides
Market Drayton is a wonderful place to explore on foot, with scenic walking routes, historic trails, and peaceful green spaces waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a keen hiker, a casual stroller, or just looking to enjoy some fresh air and countryside views, there’s a walk for everyone. From riverside rambles to heritage trails through town, walking in and around Market Drayton is a great way to stay active and enjoy the beauty of Shropshire at your own pace.
Walking Guides
If you’re looking to explore Market Drayton on foot, there are a number of walking guides available to help you get started. From short strolls through town to longer countryside rambles, the guides highlight scenic routes, local landmarks, and hidden gems along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned walker or just starting out, these guides make it easy to enjoy everything the area has to offer at your own pace.
Shropshire Union Canal Walk
Enjoy a peaceful waterside path along the Shropshire Union Canal, ideal for walking, running, and cycling. This tranquil route offers beautiful countryside views and is a great escape for those looking to stay active in nature. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely stroll or a brisk cycle, the canal path is accessible to all fitness levels.
🔗 More information: Canal & River Trust
Raven House & Rural Walk
This Walking Guide contains an easy to read map, and step by step directions, to help you follow the ‘Walking for Life’ waymarkers around two short, circular walks through Market Drayton.The walks help you to follow marked footpaths from the centre of the town into the surrounding unspoilt countryside, where you can walk peacefully and admire the beautiful views. You can either start and finish at Raven House on Cheshire Street, or, simply join the walk from any point on the map.
Tern Valley Country Park
Escape into nature at Tern Valley Country Park, a serene riverside location with walking and running trails suitable for all abilities. Home to an abundance of wildlife, the park is a great place to enjoy a workout in a natural setting. With plenty of picnic spots, it’s also an ideal destination for families looking to combine fitness with relaxation.
Tyrley to Market Drayton
This leisurely walk is 1.5 miles to Market Drayton and back following the routh of the Shrosphire Union Canal. See locks, embankments and cuttings on the last canal built by renowned engineer, Thomas Telford
Town Trail
Lovely towpath walks from Market Drayton to Tyrley Locks about a mile and a half (2.5 kilometres) each way. Most of it is on firm ground, though some parts can be a bit muddy after rain. Tyrley Locks is a group of five locks dropping 33 feet through a delightful sandstone cutting.
War Walks
This self-guided walk through Market Drayton uncovers the personal stories behind the names etched on local war memorials. From the heart of town to the quiet corners of the cemetery, the route honours those who left home for the front lines and never returned. Along the way, you’ll hear about men like 2nd Lt Eric Upton, who died of wounds in the Battle of the Somme, and Major Cuthbert Brisley, a scholar, sportsman and soldier whose memory lives on in the town. With each stop, these once-distant histories are brought vividly to life—through letters, landmarks, and legacies that remain etched in local memory.
Burntwood Forest
Discover the beauty of Burntwood Forest, a stunning woodland area with an array of trails for walking, jogging, or hiking. Whether you’re looking for a short walk or a more challenging route, the forest offers a peaceful and scenic space to stay active. In autumn, the vibrant colours make it a fantastic spot for photography and nature walks.
🔗 More information: AllTrails – Market Drayton Walks
Market Drayton War Walk 12
War Walks on the Home Front including The Man Who Fell to Earth and other First World War stories from Market Drayton In May 2017 Market Drayton District Council recorded that the District had returned more recruits than any other in Shropshire. The memorial was unveiled on Armistice Day 1921. The plinth has the names of the 114 fallen from the War.
🔗 More information: Shropshire’s Great Outdoors
Explore Market Drayton with the Rotary Treasure Trail
In 2024, Market Drayton Rotary put together a fantastic Treasure Trail, inviting participants to follow directions and solve clues.
Copies of the Treasure Trail booklet are still available to buy from the Market Drayton Library for £3.00. The trail remains a fun activity for all ages, encouraging people to explore the town, solve clues, and discover hidden gems along the way.
🚶♂️ The trail is under 2 miles long, can be completed at your own pace, and takes you past Market Drayton’s fantastic cafés, shops, and landmarks. Once you’ve solved the clues, you can still submit your answer by emailing Market Drayton Rotary through their website—just select “Treasure Trail Answer” as the subject!
💙 All proceeds from the booklet sales go to charities supported by Market Drayton Rotary.
Market Drayon Picnic Area
Market Drayton Picnic area is a mixture of parkland, trees, marsh and pools on the banks of the River Tern just south of the centre of Market Drayton. The parkland is an ideal spot for a picnic, flying a kite or kicking a ball around while the pools and marshland support a variety of wildlife.
🔗 More information: Shropshire’s Great Outdoors
Market Drayton’s walking routes provide a simple and enjoyable way to stay healthy and connected to the outdoors. Whether you’re exploring peaceful footpaths, taking part in a walking group, or discovering the town’s history on foot, there’s a walk to suit every pace and interest.
Arts & Culture
Discover local arts and experience the vibrant culture of Market Drayton.
Charity & Community
Supporting the local community and charitable endeavours.
Education & Learning
Find out more about local schools and community learning.
Food & Drink
Enjoy the town’s famous gingerbread and local food in cafe's and pubs.
Health & Wellbeing
Benefit from local health and wellbeing services available in the town.
History & Heritage
Explore Market Drayton's rich heritage and medieval architecture.
Money & Finance
Access local financial institutions offering finance products and advice.
Parks & Community Spaces
Enjoy the outdoors in a variety of parks and community spaces.
Shops & Markets
Enjoy local shops and market stalls offering a range local products and crafts.
Sports & Leisure
Join in the fun with the variety of the sports and leisure activities.