After the news that Shropshire has been named one of the top 10 up and coming tourist destinations in the world we decided to take a look at what brings visitors to Oswestry.
The county was named on the list by the Association of British Travel Agents (Abta) for Sunshine Saturday on January 6 – one of the travel industry's busiest days. The list featured 10 countries, with the UK represented by Shropshire. It is the first county ever to be included by the group.
To begin with we had a look at two of the major outdoor areas in the town beginning with the hill fort.
Even on a cold, damp, grey January morning you can see how it would be a joy for any tourist.
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Whilst not the biggest hill or the most challenging walk in the county you get rewarded with some spectacular panoramic views of the county and the border areas in every single direction.
Even while the ground was a bit squidgy and the air filled with drizzle you can easily imagine tourists spending ages taking photos.
We then took a pleasant stroll in Cae Glas Park and while admittedly it wasn’t at its colourful best, it's still a peaceful and pleasant place to wile away the hours and breathe in the glorious Shropshire air.
Some people we spoke to were surprised by the news, but could see why tourists might be attracted to the area.
“I think we have got something for everyone here," said Sue Case. "We’ve got a cinema. I’ve known Oswestry since I was a child.
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"Yes, there are sad things like the lack of shops and too many charity shops really. I think Red square is wonderful now, the eating out is wonderful, that attracts all ages.
"It’s lovely we’ve got the park you can have a walk through you don’t have to have a car.”
Carol Morris added: “I think more of the shops being open would help wouldn’t it? The park is lovely, The new works in the town centre are good but people do keep falling over them."
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