If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy the fresh air this summer, Market Drayton is the perfect destination. With peaceful canal towpaths, scenic countryside walks, family-friendly cycle routes, beautiful parks and plenty of places to stop for refreshments, it’s easy to spend a whole day exploring.
Whether you’re visiting for a gentle stroll, a bike ride through the Shropshire countryside or simply to enjoy a picnic in the park, there’s something to suit every pace.
Walk at Your Own Pace
Market Drayton is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it an excellent base for walkers.
Take a leisurely stroll along the tranquil Shropshire Union Canal, enjoy a riverside walk or head out into the surrounding countryside using one of our free walking guides. From short accessible routes to longer circular walks, you’ll discover historic buildings, wildlife, peaceful waterways and stunning rural views along the way.
You can download all of our free walking guides here.
Discover the Area by Bike
Prefer two wheels? Market Drayton is also a great place to explore by bicycle.
Quiet country lanes, scenic rural roads and canal-side scenery make the area ideal for cyclists looking for a relaxing ride or a longer day out.
Find inspiration for your next ride with our recommended cycling routes here.
Pack a Picnic
After your walk or cycle ride, why not enjoy lunch outdoors?
Victoria Park offers open green spaces, children’s play equipment and plenty of room to spread out a picnic blanket, while the canal provides peaceful spots to sit and watch the narrowboats pass by.
Of course, if you haven’t packed lunch, Market Drayton has a fantastic choice of independent cafés, pubs, bakeries and takeaways ready to welcome you.
Explore the Town
Once you’ve enjoyed the outdoors, spend some time discovering Market Drayton itself.
Browse our independent shops, visit the Market Drayton Museum & Heritage Centre, pick up locally made gingerbread from the Gingerbread House or simply enjoy wandering through one of Shropshire’s most welcoming market towns.
Families can also take part in the free Market Drayton Discovery Trail, following clues around the town while uncovering fascinating local history. It’s a great way to keep children entertained during the summer holidays.
There’s Always Something Happening
From family activities and community events to markets, live entertainment and festivals, there’s plenty happening throughout the year.
See what’s on before you visit.
Easy to Get Here
However you choose to travel, getting to Market Drayton couldn’t be easier.
There are several convenient public car parks just a short walk from the town centre, making it simple to arrive by car.
Regular bus services connect the town with Shrewsbury, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Stoke-on-Trent, Telford and Whitchurch, while the North Salop Wheelers Community Bus also helps many residents from surrounding villages enjoy a day out in Market Drayton.
Plan Your Summer Visit
Whether you’re walking beside the canal, cycling through the countryside, enjoying a picnic in the park or exploring the historic streets and independent shops, Market Drayton is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy everything Shropshire has to offer.
Plan your visit, download your walking and cycling routes and discover what’s happening this summer at:
