Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bassetlaw to Aberystwyth

The Great Britain road trip from Bassetlaw, England to Aberystwyth, Wales is a scenic journey through the rolling hills and green fields of the countryside. It is a 151-mile drive on A458, and it takes approximately three hours to complete. The route passes through charming towns and villages, and it provides opportunities to stop at unexpected and unique locations. This article highlights five such unexpected places that shouldn't be missed on the journey from Bassetlaw to Aberystwyth.

Stop 1: The Railway Man, Shifnal, SHR

Shifnal is a charming market town in Shropshire that serves as a halfway point from Bassetlaw to Aberystwyth. When you're in Shifnal, you can't miss The Railway Man, a vintage train carriage turned into a restaurant. The Railway Man offers a unique dining experience, with comfortable leather seats, train memorabilia, and a delicious menu featuring British seasonal produce. Dine on the Railway Man's specialty burgers, such as the 'Flying Scotsman' burger, served with fries. The Railway Man is a perfect stop for lunch or a coffee break.

Stop 2: The Old Mill Antique Centre, Bridgnorth

The Old Mill Antique Centre is a treasure trove of antiques and collectibles located in Bridgnorth, a historic market town in Shropshire. The centre has over 70 dealers who offer antiques and collectibles, from furniture and ceramics to jewellery and vintage textiles. The Old Mill Antique Centre is a fantastic place to stop if you're into vintage and antique items. You'll find unique and rare items that aren't available anywhere else. After shopping, head to the antique centre's tea rooms and indulge in a traditional afternoon tea with scones and clotted cream.

Stop 3: The Precipice Walk, Dolgellau

Located in Dolgellau, The Precipice Walk is a two-mile circular walk that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The walk follows the edge of the hillside which offers breathtaking views of the Mawddach Estuary and the Cadair Idris mountain range. The walk is relatively easy, and it's suitable for families with children. The walk's highlight is the viewpoint, from which you can enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding area. After the walk, head to the nearby Tafarn y Gader to sample traditional Welsh food, like cawl, a meat and vegetable soup, or Welsh rarebit, a cheese and beer sauce on toast.

Stop 4: Cader Craft, Dolgellau

Cader Craft is a family-run business that specializes in producing hand-carved Welsh love spoons. Located in Dolgellau, the store has a vast selection of spoons, each with its unique design. They also have a range of other Welsh craft items, such as slate products, jewellery, and pottery. Cader Craft is a great place to learn about Welsh culture and tradition. The love spoons, a traditional Welsh gift, are perfect for a souvenir or a gift for a loved one.

Stop 5: Devil's Bridge Falls, Aberystwyth

Devil's Bridge Falls is a stunning natural attraction located in Aberystwyth. The attraction consists of a series of waterfalls set in a lush woodland environment. The falls are reached via a series of walking trails that offer different views of the cascading waterfalls. Devil's Bridge Falls is a must-visit location if you're in Aberystwyth. After visiting the falls, head to the Hafod Hotel and Restaurant to enjoy traditional Welsh cuisine, such as Welsh beef and ale pie or leek and Caerphilly cheese tart.

Conclusion

The journey from Bassetlaw to Aberystwyth is a beautiful route through the English and Welsh countryside. While driving on A458, make sure to stop at these unique and unexpected places and experience British history, culture, and tradition. From the vintage train restaurant to the hand-carved Welsh love spoons and natural wonders like the Precipice Walk and Devil's Bridge Falls, these stops offer a glimpse into the heart of Great Britain. So pack up the car and embark on a fantastic adventure that will create lasting memories.