THE SIGN HUNTERS

ENGLAND: Exploring Bishop's Castle

Written by Laszlo, 8 July 2018

I cannot highlight enough what an amazing Summer we are having in Britain this year. This is what Summer should be like and this is exactly what I personally like the most. This weather, however, cannot keep me focused on many things, therefore, I use the time given to enjoy sign hunting and exploring new places I have never been before.

A few days ago, I thought I could cycle south of Shrewsbury to Bishop's Castle. It was a great idea, but I experienced a tyre burst on the way. As you can imagine, I was not happy as I had to return home, but talking about the positives, at least, I could get a few more new signs in. Watch the Quik Story episode here.

The day after having an unsuccessful bike ride to Bishop's Castle, I decided to take the bus - which was a great idea anyway as I wanted to do a proper sign-hunting project with video and photography documentation of the trip, too. The bus was not cheap though. Minsterley Motors, who operates the service between Shrewsbury and Bishop's Castle, does not offer a return or a day saver, so only a single option was available which was £4.80 each way. So, it is not a cheap transport solution, but there are no other options to explore South Shropshire as it is a significant distance between the nearest towns. Bishop's Castle is, for example, 23 miles away from Shrewsbury.

On the day of travel, I was up early in the morning; Katie walked into the bedroom asking me, "why are you up so early?". I said, "because I am going to Bishop's Church Castle". Katie then replied, "There is no castle in Bishop's Church". Well, hehe, I love how we confuse each other sometimes, although, I still hoped there was a church in Bishop's Castle. And you know what! In the end, it turned out that there used to be a castle in Bishop's Castle. The church is still there.

Bishop's Castle was different than expected. In a very positive way, I mean. I expected it to be absolutely posh, rural Shropshire town. But it turned out to be much more of a good blend between prestigious and bohemian. I could tell there lived a lot of alternative people who love nature, community, and the environmental consciousness is definitely higher than even in Shrewsbury. Anyway, check my photos out, you will see what I mean. Enjoy.

Oh, and watch the Quik story highlight video, too. I will put the video at the end of the post, just after the photos (or you can click on the active link above). Enjoy!