Things to Do in Shropshire

There’s so many things to do in Shropshire. Formally a tribal Celtic Iron Age kingdom, Shropshire boasts rural idyllic views in the south and old medieval towns in the north. Being one of the least crowded and more peaceful areas of England, Shropshire provides picturesque landscapes sculpting memories that will last a lifetime.

Immerse yourself in the timeless market towns, each with their own distinctive character, like Ellesmere, Market Drayton, Oswestry, Bishop Castle, Ludlow, Much Wenlock and Bridgnorth. Among the enticing streets of these market towns, you will stumble across craft shops, local boutiques, traditional inns and tea shops. So whether you’re seeking horticultural sanctuary or historical simulation, Shropshire has something for everyone.

Main Attractions

With not one but two UNESCO world heritage sites, Shropshire is brimming full of historical attractions and museums to captivate visitors. The Ironbridge, regarded as the birthplace of the industrial revolution, was the first site to be acknowledged as a world heritage site. As impressive as it was the day it was built, the site houses ten museums, offering the chance to step back in time and revisit the momentous task of constructing the Ironbridge. In addition to this, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal gives you the opportunity to take an exhilarating boat trip across the breath-taking scenery of Pontcysyllte.

Along with the medieval market towns of Shropshire, the romantic 13th century Stokesay Castle takes you back through seven centuries of battles. With an audio-tour helping you imagine Stokesays medieval splendour, marvel at the best preserved fortified manor house in England. Shropshire is also home to a collection of haunting abbey ruins dating back to the 12th century.

If you’re looking to sit back and relax whilst still taking in the awe-inspiring views Shropshire has on offer, the Severn Valley Railway is the ideal way to spend the day and with a series of special events throughout the year.

Ever wanted to walk in the footsteps of a King? The Roman city of Wroxeter provides the platform. Once the fourth largest city in Roman Britain, visitors can explore the fascinating Roman ruins and walk the King Arthur Trail. The trail takes you through the real life sites connected back to King Arthur, including the sword in the stone, the Holy Grail, Camelot and the Lady Guinevere.

Outdoor Activities

For anyone looking to get out of the towns and cities, Shropshire offers an extensive range of outdoor activities. With 20 national garden collections, Shropshire is a horticultural delight, especially in summer when the market towns transform into premier flower shows. However, if you’re looking for something more strenuous, Shropshire offers a range of outdoor activities. Cycling is one of the best ways to soak up the countryside has to offer, with routes suitable for families or experienced cyclists.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a more tranquil way to enjoy the countryside, horse riding ticks all the boxes with a vast network of bridleways to enjoy. Similarly, you can hop off the horse, going from four to two legs, exploring the historic sites littered across the Shropshire countryside.

If leisure activities are more your taste, then what better way to pass the time than sitting by one of the beautiful water banks relaxing and anticipating the bite of a fish. Additionally, with over 30 golfing venues, including three championship courses for experienced players as well as courses for beginners, Shropshire provides an excellent setting for a golf holiday.

Food and Drink

After absorbing all the activities Shropshire has to offer, choose to indulge in the mouth-watering food and drink readily available throughout Shropshire.

Ludlow is the hub for food loving visitors, with some of the best food and drink in Britain. Exploring the independent and specialist food shops Ludlow has to offer, giving opportunities to buy face-to-face from local producers.

There’s also no shortage of restaurants serving gourmet meals from locally sourced, quality produce perfect to wash down with the finest local beer Shropshire has to offer. With the real ale revival, the boom in microbreweries has led to a range of interesting and new brews as well as traditional ale and stout. On the doorstep of Shropshire is Herefordshire, one of the key areas in Britain for cider and with many of the finest cider makers in the area, there’s a drink everyone can enjoy.

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