Shrewsbury and the surrounding countryside offer a diverse range of activities this weekend. From world-class photography exhibitions to immersive history and seasonal nature walks, there are many things to do in the Shrewsbury area for residents and visitors alike.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition
Starts Saturday, 25 April | Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery
The 61st Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition opens its doors at the Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery this Saturday. On loan from the Natural History Museum in London, this prestigious touring exhibition features exceptional nature photography from across the globe.
Visitors can view a collection of images that reveal animal behaviour and the diversity of the natural world. Alongside the main gallery, a community display titled “Wildlife on your doorstep” showcases the work of local Shropshire photographers. The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Admission is £7.50 for adults, while children under 16 can enter for free.
Drawn Makers Market
Saturday, 25 & Sunday, 26 April | Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings
The Drawn Makers Market returns to the historic Dye House at the Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings this weekend. This community-led market brings together artists, creators, and independent makers from the local region.
Expect a curated selection of handmade goods, including ceramics, jewellery, textiles, and prints. The event also features live demonstrations and street food vendors. The market is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM both days. Entry is free and no pre-booking is required. Dogs on leads are welcome to attend. This is a popular option for those seeking family activities in a unique industrial setting.
Music of Coldplay by Candlelight
Saturday, 25 April | Shrewsbury Abbey
Experience the music of Coldplay performed in the atmospheric setting of Shrewsbury Abbey. This entertainment event features a live band and vocalists performing hits such as “Yellow” and “Viva La Vida” surrounded by hundreds of candles.
There are two performances scheduled for the evening:
- Show 1: Doors open at 5:30 PM, performance begins at 6:15 PM.
- Show 2: Doors open at 7:45 PM, performance begins at 8:30 PM.
A licensed bar and a coffee and cake station will be available within the Abbey during the event.
Soulton Hall Bluebell Walk
Sunday, 26 April | Soulton Hall, Wem
The annual Macmillan Bluebell Walk takes place this Sunday at Soulton Hall, located just north of the Shrewsbury area near Wem. The walk leads visitors through the “Forest of Arden,” the woodland that served as the inspiration for William Shakespeare’s As You Like It.
The bluebells and wood anemones are expected to be at peak bloom. The event runs from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and raises funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.
- Tickets: £7.50 for adults, £4 for children.
- Notes: Pre-booking is required. The route is through natural woodland and is not suitable for buggies or wheelchairs.
HMP Shrewsbury: Special Weekend Events
Friday, 24 & Saturday, 25 April | The Dana
Shrewsbury Prison, locally known as The Dana, is hosting a series of special experiences this weekend. In addition to standard self-guided tours, visitors can participate in “The Jury Experience: Diamonds, Lies, and a Dead Man,” an immersive event where participants take on the role of a jury member.
For those interested in local history, the “On the Origins of Charles Darwin” audio tour is also available, connecting the prison site to the town’s famous naturalist. The prison is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Booking in advance is recommended for specialized tours and escape room experiences.
Whether you prefer the quiet beauty of a woodland walk or the vibrant energy of a makers market, there are plenty of what’s on in the Shrewsbury area opportunities to explore this weekend. Stay updated with more Shrewsbury weekend events by visiting our local directory.
