I’ll never forget the drive to our Shropshire hideaway last autumn – leaves turning that gorgeous coppery gold all along the lanes, but oh, what a faff when the sat-nav decided to chuck a wobbly just outside Market Drayton. We ended up on some narrow back road, arguing over whether to trust Google Maps instead, with the kids in the back chanting “are we there yet?” like a broken record. A classic family road trip mishap, but by the time we spotted the steep driveway winding up through the trees, my heart was doing little flips of anticipation. What if it wasn’t as idyllic as the photos?

Pulling up to this elevated eight-bedroom beauty on its acre of land, though, all worries melted away. First impressions? Pure magic in the crisp October light – the wrap-around patio framed by a massive front lawn dotted with dew-kissed spiderwebs, and those grazing sheep in the nearby field looking like fluffy postcards. We parked up easily and climbed the 11 steps to the entrance, bags in tow, already buzzing about cosying up as the days grew shorter.

Inside, the games room with its wall-mounted telly was an instant hit with the little ones, leading straight into that huge conservatory where we plonked down on the rattan sofas, sipping tea and gazing out at the rear garden. Autumn’s chill made the ceiling fan a non-starter, but the central heating hummed away nicely, and later we flocked to the sitting room’s open fire, toasting marshmallows while belting out karaoke classics. I had a proper giggle at myself there – me, usually the shy one at parties, warbling away like a pop star, reflecting on how these getaways coax out your dafter side. The kitchen/diner was a dream for rustling up hearty stews with local veg, the utility room’s tumble dryer a godsend for muddy wellies after outdoor romps.

Ground floor bedrooms were perfect for the grandparents – one with a private balcony where we’d watch misty mornings roll over the valley, cows lowing softly. Upstairs, the master with its super-king bed, en-suite Jacuzzi and balcony became our haven; nothing beats bubbling in a hot bath as twilight paints the fields in amber hues. The other kings and doubles, all with smart TVs, meant everyone had their nook amid the seasonal snugness.

Outside, autumn shaped everything. The multi-level garden was a crunchy carpet of leaves, the trampoline and kids’ den alive with squeals before the light faded early. We skipped the heated pool – too bracing now – but the hot tub under starry skies? Divine, steam rising like a potion against the nippy air. Evenings by the summerhouse chiminea, wrapped in blankets, felt timeless.

A short stroll to Ashley’s pub for pie and pints warmed us no end, and five miles to Market Drayton’s weekly market was a treasure trove of autumnal delights – gingerbread, fresh apples, pumpkin patches. We wandered the River Tern, kicking leaves, and popped to Whitmore’s tea rooms (book ahead, they’re that good!) next to the historic Mainwaring Arms for cream teas that chased away the damp. Cudmore fishing lakes, just three miles off, tempted the lads for a misty morning cast, rods twitching in the breeze.

Dorothy Clive Gardens, a couple of miles away, were peak autumn glory – vibrant foliage arches and serene paths that had us all pondering life’s simple joys. Shropshire in this shoulder season is underrated genius: fewer crowds, cozier vibes, nature’s fireworks before winter. We left refreshed, promising a summer return for pool parties. If you fancy proper family bliss, this spot’s your ticket.