As summer arrives, Market Drayton is bursting with colour, community spirit and plenty of reasons to visit. Whether you’re looking for independent shopping, local markets, dog-friendly walks, cycling routes or a relaxing café stop, June is a wonderful time to discover this historic Shropshire market town.
Summer Blooms Brighten the Town
Market Drayton Town Council has once again helped bring the town centre to life with its annual display of hanging baskets, pole-top planters and floral mangers. Throughout the summer months, these colourful displays create a warm welcome for residents and visitors alike, adding vibrant colour to the streets and enhancing the town’s unique character.
New Places to Shop
There is plenty of exciting news for shoppers this summer.
A major addition to the town centre is the new Midlands Air Ambulance Charity shop, which recently opened its doors. The spacious new store offers a wide range of pre-loved goods while supporting the lifesaving work of the charity across the region.
Newlife continues to be a popular destination, offering clothing, accessories, books and home goods donated by major brands.
Visitors can also enjoy browsing the many independent shops that help make Market Drayton a distinctive and welcoming place to spend the day.
Fresh Coffee and Local Hospitality
A new coffee shop called Blue Bees has recently opened in the town, providing another great place to meet friends, enjoy a drink and soak up the atmosphere.
Another welcome addition is The Buttercross Tearooms, which has quickly become a favourite among locals and visitors. Located in the heart of the town, the tearoom offers a selection of food and drinks, alongside a popular afternoon tea for two. It’s the perfect spot to relax after exploring the town centre.
Market Days Not to Miss
Market Drayton’s traditional market continues to thrive throughout the summer.
Every Wednesday, visitors can enjoy both indoor and outdoor market stalls, with traders offering everything from fresh produce and artisan goods to gifts, clothing and household items.
The indoor market is also open every Saturday, providing another opportunity to browse local products and support independent traders.
For those who enjoy artisan food, crafts and unique handmade products, the Artisan Market takes place on the second Saturday of every month, bringing together a fantastic selection of local makers and producers.
Community Event and Health & Wellbeing Fair
On Saturday 13 June 2026, visitors can enjoy a free outdoor Community Event and Health & Wellbeing Fair taking place in the town. The family-friendly event will feature information, activities and opportunities to connect with local organisations and services.
The event coincides with the monthly Artisan Market, making it an ideal day to visit Market Drayton and experience everything the town has to offer.
Dog-Friendly Days Out
Market Drayton is becoming increasingly dog-friendly, with many local businesses displaying dog-friendly window stickers to welcome four-legged visitors.
For those wanting to explore the area on foot, the canal walk between Tyrley and Market Drayton offers a peaceful route through beautiful countryside and along the historic Shropshire Union Canal.
Fordhall Farm also provides a popular dog-friendly walking route, complete with downloadable trail maps that allow visitors to explore the farm’s scenic surroundings at their own pace.
If you’re planning a day in town and need somewhere safe for your dog to enjoy some exercise, The Dogs Paddocks near Market Drayton offers secure spaces where dogs can run and play freely.
Explore by Bike
The warmer months make cycling an increasingly popular way to discover the local area. Market Drayton provides an excellent base for exploring North Shropshire on two wheels, with a selection of signed and mapped cycling routes suitable for a variety of abilities.
From shorter family-friendly rides to longer countryside adventures, visitors can enjoy quiet lanes, picturesque villages and stunning rural landscapes while discovering more of what makes this corner of Shropshire so special.
Plan Your Summer Visit
With colourful floral displays, thriving markets, new businesses, community events, dog-friendly attractions and beautiful countryside on the doorstep, Market Drayton offers plenty to enjoy throughout June and beyond.
Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or making a day of it, there’s never been a better time to discover one of Shropshire’s most welcoming market towns.
