I’ll never forget the drive down to Ludlow in Shropshire – one of those classic British road trips where the sat-nav decides to have a midlife crisis. We’d packed up the car with our well-behaved spaniel, Monty, a cooler of picnic bits, and enough crisps to siege a castle, buzzing with that pre-holiday anticipation of lazy days ahead. But about 20 miles out, the thing rerouted us onto some winding B-road that looked more like a sheep track. We ended up in a muddy layby, laughing as Monty stuck his nose out the window, utterly unfazed. A quick phone signal dodge later, we were back on track, and pulling up to this cracking little pet-friendly apartment right in the heart of Ludlow. It’s the perfect setup for two – cosy open-plan living space that just invites you to flop down with a cuppa, and the high street’s shops and pubs a mere stagger away. First impressions? Spot on. It felt like slipping into a mate’s spare room, but with better views over the rooftops.

We hadn’t planned much – that’s the joy of these getaways – but Shropshire has this knack for rewarding the aimless wanderer. Day one, after a fry-up in the apartment (complete with Monty hoovering up crumbs), we set off for a stroll along the River Teme, figuring we’d hit the castle ruins everyone raves about. But Monty tugged us off the main path onto a narrow footpath that snaked behind some allotments. Blimey, what a find! It spat us out at this hidden picnic spot by the weir, where the water rushed like it was late for an appointment, and not a soul in sight. We unpacked our sarnies there, feet dangling in the cool flow, feeling like we’d gatecrashed nature’s private party. Pure magic, and all because we let the dog lead.

The next morning, fancying a bit of fresh air, we aimed for the town centre but took a “shortcut” through the back lanes behind the market. Lost? Absolutely. But that’s when we stumbled on this tucked-away community orchard – gnarly old apple trees heavy with fruit, a couple of benches, and a honesty box for whatever you pick. No signs, no crowds, just the hum of bees and the scent of ripening plums. I sat there with a mug of tea from our flask, reflecting on how I’m always chasing the big Instagram moments back home, when these quiet, accidental gems are what recharge the batteries. Monty chased his tail in delight, and we bagged a few windfalls for crumble later.

Our last full day had us “exploring” the hills just beyond the town edges – or so we thought. A wrong turn off the Ludford Bridge path led us up a brambly trail to this overlooked viewpoint over the valley. You could see the church spire poking up like a friendly beacon, sheep dotting the fields below, and zero tourists. We picnicked again (spot the theme), and I couldn’t help chuckling at myself – city lad turned accidental explorer, all thanks to getting properly lost in the best way.

Shropshire’s full of these off-the-beaten-path surprises if you ditch the map. That apartment was the ideal base – comfy, central, dog-approved – and we left with full hearts, empty crisp packets, and a promise to return for more happy accidents.