Whitchurch Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Whitchurch Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Whitchurch packs a surprising amount into a small market town. The town centre features numerous black and white timber-framed buildings dating from the 16th and 17th centuries. I always recommend starting at the Whitchurch Heritage Centre (SY13 1AX, open Tues-Sat 10am-4pm, 4.5/5 TripAdvisor) which tells the town's story from Roman times.

The Whitchurch Waterways Country Park (4/5 TripAdvisor) offers lovely walking routes along the Llangollen Canal. We spotted kingfishers here last summer! The towpath provides an easy 3-mile walk to the Grindley Brook Locks, where you can watch narrowboats navigate the staircase of locks.

St Alkmund's Church (4.5/5 TripAdvisor) dominates the town with its 15th-century tower. The church contains some fascinating monuments including medieval effigies. It's open daily 9am-5pm and worth popping in even if churches aren't usually your thing.

Just 15 minutes' drive away is Hawkstone Park Follies (SY4 5UY, 4.5/5 TripAdvisor), an extraordinary 18th-century woodland fantasy with caves, cliffs and follies. The walking routes are challenging but rewarding - bring proper footwear! Open weekends in winter, daily March-October, 10am-5pm.

Pet Friendly

Whitchurch is brilliant for dog owners. Many cottages welcome pets, often with enclosed gardens where they can run safely while you enjoy your hot tub. The Whitchurch Waterways Country Park has plenty of off-lead areas and water access points where dogs can splash about.

The Black Bear pub (SY13 1EN) in the town centre welcomes dogs in the bar area and even offers water bowls and treats. They serve good pub grub too. Similarly, The White Bear (SY13 1JP) has a dog-friendly policy and outdoor seating.

For supplies, Pets Pantry (SY13 1DP) stocks quality food and accessories. If your dog needs grooming during your stay, Paws & Claws (SY13 1QT) offers walk-in nail clipping services without appointment.

Nearby Dearnford Lake (SY13 3JQ) has a 1.5-mile circular walk perfect for dogs, plus a café with outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. Just remember to keep them on leads around the wildlife areas.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Whitchurch

Whitchurch Clock Tower and Heritage Centre (SY13 1AX) sits at the heart of the town. This Georgian building houses fascinating exhibits on local history, including the town's clockmaking heritage. Whitchurch was once famous for its clocks and watches, with JB Joyce & Co (founded 1690) being one of the oldest clockmaking firms in the world. The tower itself dates from 1712 and still chimes hourly. Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable volunteers who bring the exhibits to life.

Combermere Abbey (SY13 4AJ), just 10 minutes' drive from Whitchurch, offers stunning gardens and woodland walks. The abbey dates back to 1133 and has a fascinating history - it was even visited by Queen Victoria. The Gothic architecture and beautiful lake make it perfect for photography. The gardens are open April-September, Tuesday and Wednesday, 1pm-5pm. One recent visitor called it "a hidden gem with gardens that rival much more famous properties."

Brown Moss Nature Reserve (SY13 2LY) is a Site of Special Scientific Interest with rare wetland habitats. The series of pools and heathland supports unusual plant species and wildlife. There are well-marked trails ranging from 20 minutes to an hour. It's particularly beautiful in early morning when mist rises from the water - perfect for an early walk before returning for breakfast and a dip in your hot tub. Visitors note the "incredible birdlife" with over 100 species recorded.

Is Whitchurch good for shopping?

Yes! Whitchurch has a thriving high street with independent shops rather than chain stores. Friday is market day when the town really comes alive. Don't miss Etzio's Deli for local cheeses, Black Market Wines for unusual bottles and Honeysuckle Vintage for quirky homeware. The monthly farmers' market (first Saturday) is excellent for stocking your cottage with local produce.

Where's the best place to eat in Whitchurch?

The Wheatsheaf (SY13 1LA) consistently gets the best reviews for its locally-sourced menu and friendly service. For something different, try Khazana (SY13 1QW) for excellent Indian food, or The Anchor Inn (SY13 4HA) in nearby Adderley for traditional pub food in a 16th-century building with a great beer garden.

Can I get around Whitchurch without a car?

Yes, but it's limited. The town centre is compact and walkable. Whitchurch has a train station with connections to Crewe, Shrewsbury and Cardiff. Local buses serve surrounding villages, but services are infrequent. For exploring further afield, I'd recommend having a car.

What's the best time to visit Whitchurch?

May to September offers the best weather for enjoying your hot tub. Whitchurch Food Festival in May and the Jazz Festival in July are highlights. The Blackberry Fair in October transforms the town with street performers, music and craft stalls.

Are there any good walks near Whitchurch?

Loads! The Sandstone Trail starts just north of Whitchurch and runs 34 miles south. You can tackle sections of it easily. The Llangollen Canal towpath offers flat, easy walking with plenty of wildlife. For a circular route, try the 5-mile Prees Heath walk which takes in woodland and open countryside.

Is Whitchurch suitable for children?

Absolutely. Alongside your cottage hot tub (always supervised!), kids enjoy Whitchurch Waterways Country Park with its ducks and play area. Nearby Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre (CW6 9DS) and Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker (CW5 8AL) make great day trips. Dearnford Lake offers paddleboarding and kayaking in summer.

1. Official Whitchurch Tourism Information
2. Whitchurch Walking Routes
3. TripAdvisor Whitchurch Attractions