Shropshire canalside café plans events to attract winter visitors

A canalside café in Shropshire is hosting two community events this winter as it continues to welcome visitors despite the ongoing closure of the Llangollen Canal.

Lockside Café , at Grindley Brook near Whitchurch, is organising a walkers’ get-together and a festive market in a bid to bring people together and encourage visitors to the area.

The events come after a challenging year for businesses along the canal, with the closure affecting boat traffic and reducing visitor numbers.

The first event will be a Walkers’ Get Together on November 13, open to everyone from experienced ramblers to those who enjoy a gentle countryside stroll.

Visitors will be able to meet fellow walkers, share ideas for local routes and enjoy tea, coffee and homemade cake. Dogs are also welcome.

Jane Beaumont, who runs the café with her son and daughter, Chris and Rachel Burtonwood, said: “Our Walkers' Get Together is a chance to meet like-minded people and enjoy some good company and a good natter over a cuppa and cake. What could be better in the middle of November?”

The café will then host a Festive Market on December 6, from 10am to 2.30pm, with local stallholders selling gifts, crafts and seasonal products.

Jane said the market would give people the opportunity to support independent traders while finding Christmas presents.

She said the canal closure had had a significant impact on businesses relying on visitors to the area, but added that the café had been grateful for the support of local people and regular customers.

“We want everyone to know that we're very much open for business and we'd love to welcome both familiar faces and new visitors through our doors over the coming months,” she said.

Lockside Café is at Grindley Brook, Whitchurch, SY13 4QH, and is open daily from 9am to 4pm.