I’ll never forget the drive to Ellesmere – we’d packed the car to the gills with wellies, dog leads, and enough snacks to feed a small army, only for the sat-nav to chuck us down some winding back lane that turned into a muddy quagmire after a sneaky shower. There I was, white-knuckling the wheel while the kids in the back chanted “Are we there yet?” and our spaniel, Monty, slobbered over the picnic hamper. A classic family holiday start, innit? But as we finally rolled into town, the anticipation bubbled up – Shropshire’s got that proper countryside charm, and I could already picture lazy walks and pub lunches ahead.

Pulling up to the apartment, my first impressions were spot on. Tucked right in the heart of Ellesmere, it’s a welcoming little base with off-road parking that saved us faffing about with street spaces, and a garden out back perfect for Monty to chase his tail while we sipped tea. Stepping inside, the open-plan living room hit me with this lovely soft light streaming through the windows – proper relaxing after the road drama. It’s got that homely feel, ideal for kicking off muddy boots and flopping on the sofa with a cuppa.

We settled in quick-smart. The kitchen’s kitted out with everything you need – I whipped up bacon butties the first morning, dodging the chaos of kids raiding the fridge for yogurt and Monty eyeing up the crumbs. Two double bedrooms gave us plenty of space to spread out, and the shower room was a godsend after splashy park visits. Pet-friendly to boot, which meant no guilt-tripping Monty into kennels.

Days blurred into this blissful rhythm of simple pleasures. We wandered over to the Mere, just a stone’s throw away – that big glassy lake with swans gliding about, perfect for feeding the ducks and letting the little ones burn off steam on the playground. One afternoon, we hired rowboats and paddled about, me pretending I’m some posh rower while nearly capsizing us all – cue hysterical giggles and a soggy picnic on the shore. Lunch was fish and chips from a chippy down the road, eaten in the garden with the sun peeking out, Monty hoovering up dropped peas.

Evenings were cottage-life gold: board games in the living room that descended into cheerful arguments over Monopoly rules, then a stroll to a cosy local pub for pie and a pint. No grand plans, just pottering – popping to the town’s little shops for bread and treats, or a gentle hike around nearby cole holes, those old clay pits turned into wildflower meadows buzzing with butterflies. The kids built dens from sticks, I reflected on how these unhurried moments recharge you more than any fancy spa.

Looking back, that small mishap on the journey was the perfect icebreaker – reminded me holidays aren’t about perfection, but embracing the lovely mess of family time. Ellesmere’s apartment nailed it as our Shropshire bolthole; we’re already plotting a return for more of that quiet magic.