Attractions and Places To See around Norton In Hales - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Norton In Hales offer a blend of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural features within a picturesque Shropshire village. The area is characterized by its rural charm, with the River Tern flowing through and the Shropshire Union Canal passing nearby. Visitors can explore a variety of historical buildings and enjoy well-maintained public spaces. This region provides a tranquil setting for discovering local heritage and scenic walks.
Best attractions and places to see around Norton In Hales
- The most popular attractions is St James' Church, Audlem, a historical site and religious building. The parish church stands on a hill overlooking the village of Audlem.
- Another must-see spot is St Swithun's Church, Cheswardine, a religious building and historical site. First built in the 13th century, it features a tower added in the late 15th century and is now a Grade 2 listed building.
- Visitors also love Audlem Locks on the Shropshire Union Canal, a series of 15 locks. These locks were designed by Thomas Telford to raise the canal from the Cheshire Plain to the Shropshire Plain.
- Norton In Hales is known for its historical buildings, canals, and religious sites. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to man-made monuments.
- The attractions around Norton In Hales are appreciated by the komoot community, with 35 upvotes and 14 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
St Swithun's Church, Cheswardine
Highlight • Religious Site
As a different rider said the deep porch is useful to escape the rain.
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The Shroppie Fly, Audlem
Highlight • Pub
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St James' Church, Audlem
Highlight • Historical Site
audlemstjameschurch.org.uk/church-history
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Audlem Locks on the Shropshire Union Canal
Highlight • Structure
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Red Lion Brewery Tap at Joule's Brewery
Highlight • Pub
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Tips from the Community
Audlem is a stunning little town with a striking church and high street. Nice to see a place decked out with Union Flags.
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Audlem is an attractive place--beware of the traffic if you are on bike though!
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The church of St Swithun in Cheswardine. First built in the 13th centaury with the tower added in the late 15th centaury and then several modifications since. It's now a grade 2 listed building. As a different rider said the deep porch is useful to escape the rain.
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The parish church, dedicated to St Swithun, overlooks Cheswardine from the hill at the top of the village. This is at least the third church on this site, and was rebuilt in 1887 - 1889 under the direction of the esteemed architect John Loughborough Pearson, who died before the work was completed. The work was completed with the assistance of funding by the then squire of the Cheswardine Estate, Charles Donaldson-Hudson, who evidently provided half of the estimated cost of £8,500.
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Shroppie fly now reopened nice selection of beers on tap, dog friendly.
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Shroppie Fly does not serve any food anymore - just Drinks between eleven, and three PM
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Open daily from 11am, the Red Lion Brewery Tap at Joule's Brewery offers plenty of refreshment options. Brewery tours and tasting once a month.
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The church of St Swithun in Cheswardine. First built in the 13th centaury with the tower added in the late 15th centaury and then several modifications since. It's now a grade 2 listed building. As a different rider said the deep porch is useful to escape the rain.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in Norton In Hales?
Norton In Hales is rich in history. You can visit the 12th-century St. Chad's Church, a Grade I listed building known for its architecture and the Inigo Jones-designed Cotton Monument. Other significant historical structures include the 16th-century Norton in Hales Hall, the Grade II* listed Tunstall Hall (built around 1732), and Brand Hall. Don't miss the ancient Brading Stone on the village green, steeped in local folklore.
Are there any notable churches or religious sites in the area?
Yes, besides the prominent St. Chad's Church in Norton In Hales, you can also visit St James' Church, Audlem, which stands on a hill overlooking Audlem village. Another significant religious site is St Swithun's Church, Cheswardine, a Grade II listed building first constructed in the 13th century.
What natural features or scenic spots can I find around Norton In Hales?
The area offers several natural and scenic spots. The River Tern flows through the region, and walks along its banks can lead to a wildlife pool. The Shropshire Union Canal also passes through the parish, providing picturesque towpaths for walks, complete with listed bridges and mileposts. The village green itself is a highlight, known for its award-winning floral displays as part of the 'Britain in Bloom' success.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in Norton In Hales?
Yes, Norton In Hales offers family-friendly options. The village has excellent sporting facilities, including courts for tennis, pitches for cricket, a crown green bowls area, and a dedicated play area for children. Exploring the scenic towpaths of the Shropshire Union Canal or visiting the historic churches like St James' Church, Audlem and St Swithun's Church, Cheswardine can also be enjoyable for families.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, are available near these attractions?
The region around Norton In Hales is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for both hiking and cycling. For hiking, explore trails like the 'Audlem Centre – St James' Church, Audlem loop' or the 'Shropshire Union Canal – Tyrley Locks loop'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Audlem loop from Market Drayton' or the 'Church Aston loop'. You can find more details and routes in the Hiking around Norton In Hales and Cycling around Norton In Hales guides.
Where can I find places to eat or drink near the attractions?
For refreshments, consider visiting The Shroppie Fly, Audlem, a pub located next to the canal in Audlem, offering food and drinks. Another option is the Red Lion Brewery Tap at Joule's Brewery, which is a friendly, welcoming pub and brewhouse that also supports the local cycling club.
What is the Shropshire Union Canal's significance in the area?
The Shropshire Union Canal is a significant feature, passing directly through the parish of Norton In Hales. It offers scenic towpaths for walking and features listed bridges and mileposts. A notable section is Audlem Locks on the Shropshire Union Canal, a series of 15 locks designed by Thomas Telford to navigate the change in elevation between the Cheshire and Shropshire Plains.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Norton In Hales?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical sites, the tranquil rural charm, and the well-maintained public spaces. The komoot community has shown strong appreciation for the area's attractions, with 35 upvotes and 14 photos shared, highlighting the picturesque churches and the unique canal features like Audlem Locks.
Are there any hidden gems or unique local spots to discover?
Beyond the main landmarks, the village green itself is a hidden gem, having repeatedly won the 'Heart of England in Bloom' competition and achieving national success in RHS Britain in Bloom. The folklore surrounding the Brading Stone near St. Chad's Church also offers a unique local story. Exploring the less-traveled paths along the River Tern can also reveal peaceful wildlife spots.
Can I find easy walking routes suitable for all abilities?
Yes, there are several easy walking routes available. For instance, the 'Shropshire Union Canal – Tyrley Locks loop from Market Drayton' is an easy 5.4 km hike. Another accessible option is 'The Buttercross – Tudor House Pub loop from Market Drayton', which is 4.2 km. You can find more easy routes in the Easy hikes around Norton In Hales guide.
What is the history behind the Brading Stone?
The Brading Stone, located on the village green near St. Chad's Church, is steeped in local folklore. Tradition states that anyone found working after noon on Shrove Tuesday would be 'bumped' upon the stone. It's believed to have been brought to the area during the Ice Age, adding a geological and mythical layer to its history.
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