The town of Market Drayton lies in the extreme Northeast of Shropshire, close to the county's borders with both Cheshire and Staffordshire

Mentioned as Draitune in the Doomsday book, the origin although uncertain, could be from the word 'draegtun' - a place where the drag-net was kept or, more likely, a place of shelter, a retreat or sheltered farm.

The market status was granted in 1245, and over 750 years later, it still has a thriving market on a Wednesday when part of the town is closed off for a street market.

It is a rather nice town with a character of its own, but despite the steep hill to the south of the town, it is not really one of Shropshire's hill towns such as Ludlow, Bishop's Castle or Bridgnorth - nor is it a planned town like Newport with its wide, long main street.

Instead, Market Drayton seems to have grown at a rate, and in a direction governed by economic turns. The result is a small town, interesting to explore with a wealth of history, character and charm.

Today, the town appears to be staking its tourism future on its connection with Clive of India, the 18th-century spice trade and gingerbread. Robert Clive was born at nearby Moreton Say in 1725. He was one of thirteen children, spoilt as a child, and probably grew up as a detestable little brat!

However, his later fame in India has allowed history to change his childhood to one of high spirits and high jinks. Aged 18, he was sent off to India and one can imagine his parents and the inhabitants of Market Drayton breathed a sigh of relief!

Market Drayton is well worth a visit, and for those wishing to stay a few days, I am sure that the town would make an ideal base for touring Shropshire, Cheshire and Staffs.

For more information about Market Drayton & North Shropshire, or to receive a brochure, click on the logo above to visit the North Shropshire Tourist Information page

GO2 Ltd thank Tim Carrington of 'Shropshire Promotions' for these extracts