The National Forest

Market towns and picture postcard villages

Morning

Ashby de la Zouch is an essential stopover for groups. As well as its impressive castle and interesting museum, this pretty market town has a wide range of excellent gift shops and boutiques tucked away in its courtyards and mews. The friendly tea shops and cafes offer a welcome rest for elevenses.

Lunch

Take lunch in one of the many bistros and cafes in the picturesque village of Melbourne. This boasts antique shops and art galleries, a picturesque pool and grand hall and an impressive parish church, described as a cathedral in miniature.

Afternoon

Imposing above the enchanting village of Tutbury, is the castle where Mary Queen of Scots was held captive for many years. The Priory Church of St Mary the Virgin, reflects the importance of Tutbury in Norman times. The Mews and High Street have many art and crafts shops, galleries and antique shops to browse for souvenirs and gifts.

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