Welshpool 

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Welshpool lies in the upper reaches of the Severn Valley only a few miles from the English border. Originally, it was called ‘Pool’ but was given the ‘Welsh’ prefix to avoid confusion with Poole in Dorset.

This bustling market town, which has the largest sheep market in Europe, has a lovely mix of Tudor, Georgian and Victorian architecture on show. The Powysland Museum has a good collection of relics and information concerning the rich history of the area.

One mile south of the town is the impressive Powys Castle: building started in the medieval age but as the castle has been almost continuously inhabited there have been additions to the fabric of the building throughout the ages.

• The Welshpool-Llanfair light railway makes its way through the eight miles between the two towns and is a nostalgic way to travel around the attractive countryside.