Magic, fire, warts and all at Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre this summer

 Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre invites families to come and get involved in a host of exciting activities over the coming weeks.

The popular visitor attraction in Craven Arms is offering a series of family hands-on sessions every weekday during the school holidays.

Children, accompanied by an adult can take part in Hogweed’s School of Magic this week, between 13-17 August 2012, when youngsters can brush up their magical and potion making skills.

Purple Prickles and Poisonous Warts from 20 to 24 August 2012, offers an alternative approach to traditional fun and games.  Families can take part in a nut and spoon race, snakes and ladders and pin the tail on a fox.

Finally, “Fire” between 27-31 August 2012 offers the chance to make and cook pizzas in the open air using a clay oven and make pop-corn on a camp fire.

Mike Owen, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member responsible for tourism and culture, said;

“The Centre is a favourite destination for families all year round. Our holiday activity programme is designed by the dedicated team here to provide fun and excitement while learning something about the countryside; activities are enjoyed by all those who choose to join us.”

The award-winning centre, managed by Shropshire Council, is also home to the Secret Hills exhibition, where visitors can pay to discover the secrets hidden in the Shropshire Hills that help us to understand what and who shaped our familiar landscape.  Highlights include a lifesize replica of the Shropshire mammoth, and a wide screen film shot from a hot air balloon and narrated by the late Pete Postlethwaite.

David Evans, a local Shropshire Councillor for Church Stretton and Craven Arms, said:

“Get involved with these spectacular events, there’s plenty to do and walks to go on from the Centre; something that should not be missed.”

All activities cost £4 per child and are aimed at 3- to 11-year-olds.  They start at 1pm and places are limited, so booking is recommended on 01588 676060.

Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre is 8 miles north of Ludlow on the A49 and open every day from 10am.  There is a café offering a range of tantilising snacks and hot and cold beverages, a bespoke shop selling a fantastic range of gifts plus 30 acres of countryside for playing and picnicking.