There was a time when the place in Shropshire now known as Ironbridge Gorge was the centre of the world. At least in industrial terms. This is where in 1709 Abraham Darby I discovered a process for smelting iron with coke instead of charcoal and, with his revelation, brought about the principles of mass production.
In recognition of the region’s contribution to life as we know it, Ironbridge Gorge is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. It has a thriving tourist trade and, incorporating Coalport, Coalbrookdale, Jackfield, Broseley and Madeley, ten wonderful museums. Not to mention the world-famous iron bridge itself, majestic over the River Severn.
Outside of Ironbridge we have Telford, the bright hopeful ‘New Town’ named after the famous engineer Thomas Telford. Here’s a perfect stop for shopping and leisure activities that include bowling, cinema, indoor snowboarding and skiing, and soft play. Telford is an ideal Shropshire destination for a rainy day, especially if you have children.
Officially part of Telford but with a character of its own is the friendly market town of Wellington nestled at the foot of The Wrekin, Shropshire’s ‘beloved little mountain’. The Wrekin, for many Salopians, represents home and no visit to Shropshire should be complete without climbing it. The Wrekin, and many other walks in this ‘Walkers are Welcome’ town are easily accessible from Wellington train station. Visit Wellington for great pubs and the historic indoor market with its food court offering street food from all corners of the globe and popular late-night openings.
Check out Love Wellington, whether you’re a native or a newcomer or just passing through, this website is your guide to our historic town. Here you find everything you need to know about where to buy your sausages and ceramics, real ale and restored furniture.
Find out more about Wellington here
Other lovely places to explore in this region of Shropshire are Albrighton (near Wolverhampton – there’s another Albrighton near Shrewsbury!) and Shifnal – both close to a fascinating RAF museum, Weston Park and the famous Royal Oak that shielded Charles II from Parliamentarians.
Are you ready to explore Ironbridge, Telford and Shropshire’s stunning Severn Valley?
Embark on a journey through Ludlow`s enchanting streets on a sunny Saturday market day! 🌞✨
Witness the lively atmosphere as local traders bring colors and flavors to the scene. Explore quaint independent shops, bask in the aromatic charm of cafes, and savor culinary delights at local restaurants.
Ludlow`s picturesque streets are a canvas of culture waiting to be explored! 🛍️🍽️
Brilliant 🎥 IG @letsgoludlow
🌸✨ Mark your calendars for a bloomin` good time at Frankly Alpacas – it`s Springtime Fun on the Farm! 🦙💐
Join Frankly Alpacas Monday 12th - Sunday 18th and Monday 25th of March - Sunday 7th of April for an unforgettable experience with alpacas, lambs, and adorable Dexter cows. Get up close and personal with these furry friends through farm tours and hands-on encounters. It`s a day filled with smiles, laughter, and the joy of Spring in the air. Don`t miss out on this farmtastic adventure!
Check all the details and secure your spot! @frankly_alpacas
#visitshropshire #familyfun #shropshire #thingstodo
"🏰✨ Dive into the heart of Shrewsbury`s Castle Quarter – the epicenter of history and grandeur! 🏰 Home to four of the town`s largest historic treasures – Shrewsbury Castle, Library, Prison, and Train Station.
Did you know Shrewsbury Castle`s foundations were laid in 1083 by the 1st Earl of Shrewsbury, Roger de Montgomery?
Montgomery, a cousin of William the Conqueror, earned this castle and more as a thank-you for his aid during the Norman conquest.
From royal stronghold to a 16th-century transformation, Shrewsbury Castle has quite the story. Now, it stands majestically, housing the Shropshire Regimental Museum. 👑🏰 Ready to step into the pages of history?
#visitshropshire #shrewsburycastle #historic #shrewsbury #thingstodo #shropshire
Embark on an extraordinary half-term adventure at the enchanting Hawkstone Park Follies! 🌲✨
This hidden gem invites you to explore a sprawling landscape filled with magical surprises. Hawskstone Park Follies are offering 50% off general admission from February 9th to 18th, making it the perfect opportunity to uncover the mysteries that await.
Set in 100 acres of Parkland The Follies is a range of dramatic and rugged natural sandstone hills that were developed to include gullies, caves, towers and bridges, becoming one of the most visited landscapes in Britain during the 19th Century. However, throughout the 20th Century this romantic landscape became forgotten, overgrown and ruinous, unvisited by all but the locals.
Now recognised as a Masterpiece of the School of Naturalistic Landscape and designated as a Grade I listed landscape by English Heritage, this magical and exhilarating landscape had a new lease of life with a multi-million pound restoration project enabling it to reopen to visitors in 1993. Overgrown but never fully forgotten, pathways were cleared, gullies reopened and handrails reinstalled to allow visitors to enjoy the spectacular views and surprises that The Follies reveals around every corner.
Friends of the Follies can also enjoy special annual pass upgrade offers available at the gate, ensuring that the magic doesn`t end after one visit!
Ready for an immersive experience where you can adventure, explore, and discover?
Secure your spot now at @hawkstoneparkfollies
#visitshropshire #hawkstoneparkfollies #shropshire #halfterm #thingstodo
🌲✨ Join The Gruffalo on a birthday adventure at Haughmond Hill! 🎉🎈
Celebrating 25 years of magical tales, Forestry England presents a brand new family trail for an unforgettable experience in the deep dark woods.
Follow the path from the visitor car park, embark on a quest to find party items, and help choose the perfect present for the Gruffalo. 🐭🎁
Enjoy fun, games, and discover the wonders of forest life along the way. Don`t forget your activity pack for just £4 at Haughmond Hill Café—it`s packed with party-ready surprises! 🎂🌳
Warm up, bundle up, and make this winter a Gruffalo birthday celebration to remember! ❄️
@haughmondhillfc
#visitshropshire #halfterm #halftermfun #shropshire #haughmondhill #shrewsbury
