ART IS ALL AROUND

•13th July, Charter Celebration Evening, SpArc Theatre Southwest Shropshire Historical and Archeological Society present fascinating characters from the past in celebration of the 450th anniversary of the granting of Bishop Castle’s charter by Queen Elizabeth I. 7.30pm. £10 including cheese and wine.

All about archaeology

Church Stretton Arts Festival celebrates music, art and culture from 29th July-12th August. A packed programme of classical and contemporary music, talks and workshops includes piano virtuoso Reiko Fujisawa, award-winning folk trio e Trials of Cato and rousing Balkan band She’Koyokh. Over 100 local artists are showcasing work, and there are co ee concerts, organ recitals and more. Some events are free. www.strettonfestival.org.uk

Models and more

A warm welcome awaits passengers at Oswestry station for a gentle train ride through the Shropshire countryside aboard the Cambrian Heritage Railway. On 15th-16th July, Ellesmere Model Railway Club will be in residence, hosting a number of displays on the platform and in the station museum. ere will also be stalls selling parts for anyone inspired by the displays. Tickets are £10 (child £7, family £25).

e railway is now available for photo shoots, and recently played a part in Kirsten and Grant’s wedding celebrations. www. cambrianrailways.com e Museum of Iron at Coalbrookdale is holding a special one-day event on 15th July to celebrate the fascinating world of archaeology. A range of local societies and groups will be on hand to showcase the work taking place within the region. ere will be handson activities, informative talks and walks around the local area. is event is free. www.ironbridge.org.uk

Merely Fun

Head for Ellesmere Mere on 2nd July to cheer on the teams competing at the annual Bell Boat Regatta. Classes include adult open, ladies and youth teams. Family entertainment will take place throughout the day at Cremorne Gardens.

•13th July, Nature Writing Workshop, The Hive, Shrewsbury Budding writers can join in this free workshop designed to develop recordkeeping and writing skills using botanical knowledge and seasonal observations. 10am. Free but must be pre-booked.

•14th July, Style Chapters – An Evening with Erica Davies, Holroyd Community Theatre, nr Oswestry Join style influencer and former fashion editor Erica Davies as she talks about her new book Style Chapters, full of practical dressing suggestions for every life stage. 7.30pm. £22 including a signed copy of the book.

•15th July, Hay Meadow Festival, Craven Arms Discovery Centre This fun-filled family day celebrates wildflower meadows and their wealth of wildlife. 11am-7pm. £8 (child £4).

•19th July, NGS Open Garden, The Hundred House Hotel

Following a 20-year hiatus, the Hundred House Hotel is rejoining the National Garden Scheme and will be welcoming visitors to its one-acre garden, carefully crafted over 35 years. 10am-5pm. £5 suggested donation on the gate.