Looking for a free family activity during the summer holidays? Why not slow down, head outdoors and discover the amazing wildlife waiting to be found around Market Drayton?
From colourful butterflies and dragonflies to kingfishers, swans and even the occasional otter, Market Drayton is surrounded by beautiful green spaces that are perfect for exploring with children of all ages.
Whether you’re visiting for the day or live locally, it’s a great way to enjoy the fresh air, get active and make lasting family memories.
Explore the Shropshire Union Canal
The peaceful Shropshire Union Canal is one of the best places to enjoy a gentle walk while keeping an eye out for wildlife.
Watch colourful narrowboats glide past as ducks paddle along the water, moorhens dart between the reeds and dragonflies skim across the canal on sunny days. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a heron patiently waiting for its next meal.
The canal towpath is also a wonderful place to enjoy a family walk or cycle ride, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the beautiful Shropshire countryside.
Visit Walkmill Meadows Nature Reserve
Just a short walk from the town centre, Walkmill Meadows Nature Reserve is one of Market Drayton’s hidden gems.
With easy paths, picnic areas and peaceful riverside views, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring.
Keep your eyes peeled for:
• Kingfishers flashing their bright blue feathers along the River Tern.
• Butterflies dancing among the wildflowers.
• Dragonflies hovering over the water.
• Grey wagtails along the riverbank.
• Rabbits and squirrels in the surrounding green spaces.
If you’re especially lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of an otter, which has occasionally been spotted along the River Tern.
Make Wildlife Spotting Fun
Turn your visit into a family challenge by seeing how many different things you can spot.
Can you find:
✓ A swan
✓ A duck
✓ A moorhen
✓ A butterfly
✓ A dragonfly
✓ A bee
✓ A squirrel
✓ A rabbit
✓ A heron
✓ A colourful narrowboat
Don’t forget to bring a camera or your phone and see who can capture the best wildlife photograph—just remember to admire nature from a distance and avoid disturbing any animals.
Pack a Picnic
After your adventure, why not enjoy a picnic in one of Market Drayton’s parks or at Walkmill Meadows?
Bring a blanket, enjoy the summer sunshine and relax while listening to birdsong and watching nature all around you.
Make a Day of It
Nature is just one part of a fantastic family day out in Market Drayton.
After exploring, why not:
• Complete the free Market Drayton Discovery Trail.
• Visit Market Drayton Museum and learn about the town’s fascinating history.
• Treat yourself to the famous Billington’s Gingerbread.
• Browse the town’s independent shops.
• Enjoy lunch, coffee or an ice cream at one of our welcoming cafés.
• Check out the latest events and activities taking place across the town.
Plan Your Summer Adventure
Whether you’re hoping to spot a kingfisher, enjoy a peaceful canal walk or simply spend quality time together outdoors, Market Drayton offers plenty of opportunities to connect with nature this summer.
Before you visit, take a look at our walking guides to help you explore even more of the beautiful countryside surrounding the town:
https://makeitmarketdrayton.com/walking-guides/
You can also find family events and activities taking place throughout the summer holidays by visiting:
https://makeitmarketdrayton.com/whats-on/
Pack your walking shoes, bring your sense of adventure and discover the natural side of Market Drayton this summer!
