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15 Best Things to Do in Shrewsbury (Shropshire, England)

Embraced by a loop on the River Severn, Shrewsbury is a market town that wins people over with its Tudor houses, Medieval castle and idyllic riverside park.

The watery barrier of the Severn has helped Shrewsbury hang onto more than 600 historic buildings, as well as its “Shuts”, which are sequestered little passageways.

Charles Darwin was born in Shrewsbury and you can see the very church in which he was baptised.

That’s just one of many riveting stories the town has to tell, and you’ll hear more on a boat trip along the Severn in summer.

Just north of the town is where a pivotal moment in English history took place, when the rebel nobleman Sir Harry Hotspur was slain at the Battle of Shrewsbury in 1403.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Shrewsbury :

1. The Quarry Park

This glorious 29-acre park is on the western bulge of Shrewsbury’s loop in the River Severn, a leisurely walk from the town centre.

For a moment of repose you could stroll along its avenues or have a picnic by the Severn.

The Quarry was landscaped in 1719 and is centred on the Dingle, which was a stone quarry from the 14th to the 16th century.

This ornamental sunken garden was first planted in the 1870s, and the statue among the flowerbed represents Sabrina, a mythological nymph who drowned in the Severn.

The summer calendar at the Quarry is dotted with events like the Shrewsbury Flower Show in mid-August, the Shrewsbury Regatta in May.

June’s Shrewsbury Food Festival and the Let’s Rock Music Festival in July.

2. Shrewsbury Castle

Guarding the head of Shrewsbury’s river peninsula, Shrewsbury Castle was raised during the Norman conquest by Roger de Montgomery in 1070. The red sandstone fortress here now is from reign of Edward I in the 13th century during his Conquest of Wales.

After a fallow period following the English Civil War in the 17th century, the monument was restored in the 1790s by the feted civil engineer and architect Thomas Telford.

The castle now holds the Shropshire Regimental Museum, which has a display of paintings, uniforms, weapons and regalia.

Thomas Telford’s Gothic Revival Laura’s Tower is set on the exact site of the original Norman motte (mound), and its terrace has a panoramic view of the townscape and countryside.

3. Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery

This historic attraction, established in 1835, has recently relocated to the Music Hall, a grand Victorian building in the centre of Shrewsbury.

Over almost 200 years the museum has put together a collection of 300,000 objects, and more are added by the year.

A recent acquisition is the Shrewsbury Hoard, from a stash of 9,315 Roman-era bronze coins discovered by a metal detectorist in 2009. This is one must-see in a very strong archaeology department that also has a Bronze Age hoard and a Roman Mirror and Hadrianic forum inscription from the nearby Roman town of Wroxeter.

There’s also a rich array of Caughley ware, porcelain produced at the Caughley China Works in the 18th century.

The “Maximo Mouse” trail through the museum will also help keep children on board.

4. Historic Town Centre

The oldest quarter of the city encircled by the Severn, is an absolute delight.

Shrewsbury has an amazing 660 listed buildings, a large proportion of which are black and white, half-timbered houses raised when the wool trade was blossoming in Tudor times.

Also from that period are Shrewsbury’s “Shuts”, cosy passageways with evocative names like “Gullet Passage”, Grope Lane” and “Peacock Passage”. You’ll spend most of a walking tour with your head craned back, inspecting the patterned and carved timbers, reliefs and historic flourishes.

On the Square, the Old Market Hall dates from the 16th century and houses an independent cinema and cafe.

5. Shrewsbury Abbey

A former Benedictine monastery, Shrewsbury Abbey dates from the 11th century and survived the Dissolution of the Monasteries when it was converted into a parish church in 1540. While the monastic buildings were torn down, the church remained, and a lot of the original Norman structure survives intact.

This can be seen in the transepts and in the piers on the eastern half of the nave.

The Abbey’s enduring image is the 14th-century Decorated Gothic west window, glazed around 1388. Wilfred Owen, perhaps the highest regarded of Britain’s First World War poets, lived in the parish from 1910 to 1918 and is remembered with a memorial tablet on the west end of the church.

6. Sabrina Boat Trips

As the Severn is integral to Shrewsbury’s past, a river trip is a must if you’re in town on a sunny day.

The Sabrina departs from the Victoria Quay every day, be sure to check their website for hours and prices.

The trip is 45 minutes, giving you loads of photo opportunities on the outward journey, before returning with a running commentary from the captain.

There’s a bar on board serving hot and cold drinks, while you can take special dinner cruises on Tuesday evenings, lunch cruises on Sundays and a ghost cruise on Monday nights.

7. St Mary’s Church

Shrewsbury’s largest church was declared redundant in 1987 and is currently in the care of the Churches Conservation Trust.

The building has Norman and Gothic architecture, and is said to have been founded by the Anglo-Saxon King Edgar in the 10th century.

St Mary’s stands as the only intact Medieval church in Shrewsbury and has much to keep visitors in its spell.

The stained glass is exceptional, most of all in the chancel’s east window, which has a 14th-century depiction of the Tree of Jesse (showing the ancestors of Christ). The tower, in varying shades of sandstone, has Norman windows on its lower floors, while the coffered ceiling in the nave was hewn from oak in the 15th century.

Among St Mary’s many curiosities is an epitaph on the tower for Robert Cadman, an 18th-century tightrope walker who died when his rope broke.

8. Dana Prison

After operating for 220 years, HM Prison Shrewsbury, at the head of the town’s loop in the Severn, closed down in 2013. Since then there have been plans to turn this dominant Georgian building into housing, shops and a gym.

But until work begins you’ll be able to go inside with a company called Jailhouse Tours.

Seven days a week you’ll be able to look around the cells, governor’s office, Hanging Room and communal areas with a guide who will paint a vivid picture of the life and routine of both inmates and prison officers.

You can also put on a hardhat with a lamp to explore the tunnels under the prison to visit historic cells where prisoners were kept in squalid conditions 200 years ago.

9. St Chad’s Church

At the top of the Quarry Park, the Grade I listed St Chad’s Church raised in 1792 to replace a 13th-century building that was destroyed when its tower collapsed.

There are a few things that make this Neoclassical Georgian masterpiece special.

One is that Charles Darwin was baptised here in 1809 and attended the church in his childhood.

St Chad’s also has the largest circular nave in the country.

This is a beautiful space, with a gallery and slender Corinthian columns.

And it could not be better suited for concerts and organ recitals.

Be here on Friday when the free lunchtime concert has become a local tradition.

10. Market Hall

Under Shrewsbury’s famous clock tower, the Market Hall is a sociable shopping attraction with stalls for meat, seafood, flowers, fruit and veg, baked goods, specialist foods and confectionery.

But to go with the fresh produce and provisions you can peruse arts and crafts, photography, vinyl and vintage clothing.

The Market Hall has a stylish and cosmopolitan vibe, and this is reflected in the choice of food served in the ball.

There’s tapas, oysters, Thai street food, a Chinese teahouse and the lovable Bird’s Nest Cafe.

• 11. Theatre Severn

Shrewsbury’s premier performing arts centre, Theatre Severn has a 635-seater Main Auditorium along with a more compact Walker Theatre, seating 250 and standing up to 500. The complex opened in 2009 and has a regional pull, attracting audiences from around the West Midlands and mid Wales.

In the six years up to 2015, more than a million audience members passed through these doors.

If you’re in need of some live entertainment, the variety at Theatre Severn is awesome.

Shrewsbury’s Symphony Orchestra performs here, and there’s a season of gala concerts in July.

But the venue also books famous touring comedians, dance companies, musicals, cultural figures for talks, tribute bands, and stages plenty of matinee shows for youngsters.

12. Attingham Park

This mansion was constructed for Noel Hill, an eminent politician in the late- 18th century who helped William Pitt the Younger restructure the East India Company.

On a tour you’ll get to know the Berwick family, see their furniture and painting collections and hear how the family’s fortunes fell.

The circular boudoir is a standout, but you’ll also find out how the hall was converted into an adult education college from the 1940s.

The estate sprawls across more than 4,000 acres, which if you can believe is only half its size in the 18th century.

The park was configured by the great 18th-century landscape designer Humphrey Repton, and has woodland and a deer park to ramble in.

There’s a walled garden, which has gradually been restored since 2008, and an orchard growing fruit that is used at the estate’s tearooms.

13. Battlefield Falconry Centre

The old village of Battlefield is now practically a northern suburb of Shrewsbury, and a good reason to go is for this bird of prey attraction.

The Falconry Centre has more than 30 different owls, hawks and falcons, all kept in large, humane aviaries.

The centre offers a wide range of experiences with these creatures, the most popular being Hawks on Walks.

This entails heading out into the woodland at the Albrighton Estate in Battlefield, accompanied by a falconer and Harris hawk.

During the walk the bird will fly off into the forest and return to its perch on the glove.

You can also come for bird handling sessions and can spend an entire day being taught the finer points of falconry.

14. Haughmond Hill

Drive east of Shrewsbury for a few miles and you’ll arrive at this low, broad rise, 150 metres in height.

Mostly cloaked in forest, Haughmond Hill is a sort of country park for Shrewsbury, as it’s so close to the town, and has a supreme view of the town and the Shropshire countryside.

Keen geologists may be intrigued by Haughmond Hill as it’s composed of extremely ancient Precambrian turbidite, deposited into the ocean off the edge of a continent.

There are benches to ponder the view, which is unbroken for miles to the west, and you can venture off into the woodland where you should spot some deer.

15. Hawkstone Park Follies

Further on from Battlefield, Hawkstone Park is a landscape park that used to be attached to Hawkstone Hall, close by.

In 100 acres and encompassing four steep hills, the park shines for its follies, started in the 18th century by Sir Rowland Hill, 1st Baronet Hill of Hawkstone.

This is all on the site of a decaying Norman stronghold, Red Castle.

It’s a thrill to discover on foot: There’s a Gingerbread Hall, Hermitage, Grotto, Gothic Arch, Swiss Bridge, White Tower, Urn and Greenhouse.

Part of the drama of Hawkstone Park lies in its geology, and the bare cliffs that provided the sandstone for these follies.

15 Best Things to Do in Shrewsbury (Shropshire, England):

• The Quarry Park
• Shrewsbury Castle
• Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery
• Historic Town Centre
• Shrewsbury Abbey
• Sabrina Boat Trips
• St Mary's Church
• Dana Prison
• St Chad's Church
• Market Hall
• Attingham Park
• Battlefield Falconry Centre
• Haughmond Hill
• Hawkstone Park Follies

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10 Very Best Things To Do In Shrewsbury, England

Nestled amongst the rolling Shropshire Hills and just a few miles from the Welsh border, the laidback little town of Shrewsbury is a totally gorgeous place to visit. It’s the kind of place that’s perfect for a day trip or weekend break, especially with all the best things to do in Shrewsbury dotted all across the town.

I’ve forgotten the exact number of times I’ve visited Shrewsbury but it’s easily thirty times over the last decade! I love it, especially as it’s a cosy little town that, although seems quite sleepy, has a heap of gems to explore.

In fact, Charles Darwin once called Shrewsbury home (as a child) and there are so many more nuggets of history to see all across the streets and riverway, too.

So, to help you get the most out of your time, I wanted to pop over a few of the spots I love most in Shrewsbury.

Take a look, below, at the best things to do in Shrewsbury. Have an amazing time visiting!

1.) Shrewsbury Castle

Standing witness to raids, sackings, and invasions, Shrewsbury Castle has seen a lot of turmoil over the centuries!

Thankfully, nowadays, the castle doesn’t suffer from any such problems and is a lovely little place to wander and take in some of the regions long history.

Surrounded by the River Severn, it has been a fortress to many generations of the elite, with iconic historical figures frequenting the grounds through its long time in operation.

Nowadays, it’s home to the Shropshire Regimental Museum and a great place to stroll within its walls and see traces of its history.

Plus, you may also get the chance to go up Laura’s Tower. From here, you can take in the sweeping views across Shrewsbury and the nearby countryside.

Getting peckish? Hop over to La Lanterna for some of the best pasta in Shropshire! Their spaghetti and home-made Tiramisu is everything.

Read more: Best cities in England to visit

2.) The Quarry (The Dingle)

Just a few strides away from Shrewsbury’s town centre, The Quarry is a sprawling 29-acre park by the River Severn. On ordinary days, you can have a leisurely stroll along its walkways or have a picnic overlooking the river.

This is one of the best things to do in Shrewsbury, especially on a sunny day and a spot I totally love. You see, although quite petite, the garden comes alive in colour with the blooming flowers in spring and summer. It’s gorgeous.

Oh, and if you visit between May-August, make sure to check to see what festivals are going on. Some of the most popular events that are held in the park are the Shrewsbury Regatta, Shrewsbury Food Festival, Let’s Rock Music Festival, and Shrewsbury Flower Show.

Read more: Prettiest places in England to visit

3.) Shrewsbury Abbey

Founded almost 1,000 years ago, Shrewsbury Abbey has actually been a religious spot since back in Anglo-Saxon times.

With Medieval architecture and stunning stained glass, Shrewsbury Abbey is one of Shropshire’s most iconic abbeys to see.

Don’t forget to take a gander around the gardens, too. They’re lovely.

4.) St. Mary’s Church

If religious history is your thing, you’re gonna want to visit St Mary’s Church, too!

Often regarded as the largest church in Shrewsbury, it’s got soaring stone arches, colourful stained glass, and Victorian tiles that make it a stunning spot to explore.

Though, all that epicness isn’t confirmed just inside the church. In fact, the church’s exterior is dominated by the tallest spire in England, which has been the main highlight of Shrewsbury’s skyline for a whopping 500 years.

Getting hungry? Stop by La Mer Rouge (Across the River Severn) for their yummy fresh fish.

5.) Attingham Park

Sprawled across more than 4,000 acres, Attingham Park is a spot that once belonged to Noel Hill, a well-regarded politician in the 18th century. Nowadays, however, it’s a National Trust estate that we can all enjoy and explore!

It’s easily one of the best things to do in Shrewsbury if you fancy time away from the streets. Especially with its vast woodland and deer park that’s only a 20-minute drive from the town.

Not only that, the mansion has an awe-inspiring interior that you can’t miss. There’s a heap of things to see, especially with the circular boudoir, period furniture, and iconic paintings that adorn the walls.

Outside, you can take a chilled stroll along with the walled garden and the orchard before heading back to Shrewsbury itself.

6.) Boating along the River Severn

Surrounded by the River Severn, Shrewsbury has lots of riverbank walks and trails that are lovely to explore. That being said, if you fancy resting up, hop on board Sabrina, one of the town’s boats that tour the waters.

Departing from Victoria Quay and taking around 45-minutes to an hour to sail, it’ll take you up towards the English Bridge before sailing you back to the Welsh Bridge on the other side of the town centre.

Oh, and remember, the season for boat tours tends to run between March to October.

7.) Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery

If you’re wondering how the town of Shrewsbury came to be, head to the Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery to explore more.

Here, you’ll find out more than the town’s history in the ever-changing museum exhibitions, such as Shropshire’s geology and the significance of the River Severn. It’s a pretty epic spot and the ever-changing art on display is totally unique.

Afterwards, stroll on over to Umai for their yummy sashimi and sushi.

8.) Theatre Severn

Located on Frankwell Quay, Theater Severn is a relatively new addition to Shrewsbury after opening back in 2009.

It’s the kind of place that’s perfect for the whole family, especially with all the seasonal shows, theatre, live music and comedy performances.

It’s easily one of the best things to do in Shrewsbury, though, be sure to check out the schedules in advance.

9.) St. Chad’s Church

St Chad’s Church has a long history in Shrewsbury and with Charles Darwin for that matter. You see, this is where he was baptized in 1809 and is well worth a little look around.

With a distinctive round shape and a high tower, St. Chad’s Church is pretty difficult to miss when you visit! Well, in my opinion at least.

Best of all, it’s really easy to visit the church after a little gander around The Dingle as they’re right next to each other. Though, to be fair, nothing is ever that far away in Shrewsbury.

10.) Wroxeter Roman City

Located 5-miles east of the town of Shrewsbury, the Wroxeter Roman City is one amazing spot that’s incredible to visit for Roman history.

Founded in 55 AD, this excavated ruin was once one of the largest towns of Roman England, comparable to the size of Italy’s famous city of Pompeii.

Although much smaller nowadays, this well-preserved excavation is incredible to visit. You’ll get to see a recreated townhouse, visited the museum, and spot the famous baths and walls that are thousands of years old.

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23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Shrewsbury (Shropshire, England)

Shrewsbury is a popular market town in Shropshire. Surrounded by a loop from the River Severn, featuring Medieval castle, towers, Tudor houses, and picturesque Riverside parks, this town has won over the heart of many.

The river Severn acts as a water hindrance to little passageways thereby preserving over 600 historic buildings. Visiting these buildings is just the least of many fun things to do in Shrewsbury.

The famous Charles Darwin was born in Shrewsbury, you could see places he stayed, visited, worked and the church he was baptized.

You will find Historical museums, ancient landmarks having special significance, parks, hills, and many more to keep you engaged. For the best of a vacation, here are the best things to do in Shrewsbury.

Things to Do in Shrewsbury

1. hawkstone park follies.

Moving further away from Battlefield is a landscape park called Hawkstone Park. It is 100 acres in size, used to be joined to the nearby Hawkstone Hall, and contains four steep hills.

The park which was opened by Sir Rowland Hill (the 1st Baronet Hill of Hawkstone) in the 18th century is popular for its shiny follies.

You will find them all on the spot of the Norman Red Castle, now a deteriorating stronghold. You will be thrilled to uncover by foot a Gingerbread Hall, Grotto, Hermitage, Swiss Bridge, Gothic Arch, Greenhouse, Urn, and a White Tower.

Part of the excitement offered by Hawkstone Park is its geology and the empty cliffs that supply the sandstone need for these follies.

A visit to this park makes one of the unique things to do in Shrewsbury, do check out the area.

2. Ditherington Flax Mill

The Ditherington Flax Mill (recently bearing the promotional name, Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings), is a flax mill in Shrewsbury.

It is the first iron-framed building in the world and is also recognized as the world’s first skyscraper, fondly called “the grandfather of skyscrapers”, despite having a maximum height of a modern-day five-story building.

This building was designed using an iron-framed structure by Charles Bage, an architect. He drew his inspiration from William Strutt and his work. This construction took a year (1796-1997) at a cost of £17,000.

Ditherington Flax Mill became listed as a Grade I building in the 1950s. Currently, the site is under restoration and has some restricted public entry. There is a visitor center and guided tours are carried out around the facility.

It open on Saturdays from November through March and on Fridays and Sundays from April to October.

3. The Shrewsbury Darwin Walk

You are welcome to the birthplace of the great naturalist and explorer, Charles Robert Darwin. He was born on 12th February 1809 and spent his first 27 years in this town.

His life was inspired by fascinations and inquisitiveness about nature which led to his evolution theory.

The Darwin Town Trail leads you through the important places around the town that affected a young Charles Darwin thereby shaping him into one of the most popular persons in the world.

While in Shrewsbury, do walk the Darwin Town Trail.

4. Climbing The Walls

One of the best things to do in Shrewsbury is a fun time at “Climbing The Walls”. This is a state-of-the-art indoor climbing center situated in Shrewsbury. The center has over 8,000 sq ft of massive climbing space. You can choose bouldering, climbing, or mixed packages.

It was purposefully built to cater to all ages and different abilities.

For experienced climbers, you can polish your skills on the lead walls while improving your strength on the Moon board. Amateur climbers can learn on the Action Walls despite the age. It’s fun and very safe!

Other amenities in the building include shower facilities, function classes and rooms, and a cáfe, this makes what to do in Shrewsbury for a fun time, do consider for your checklist of things to do in Shrewsbury.

Address: 1 Battlefield Road The Market Place, Shrewsbury.

5. Shropshire Regimental Museum

The Shropshire Regimental Museum has a unique collection of the four Shropshire Regiments – Shropshire Yeomanry, King’s Shropshire Light Infantry, 4th Bn King’s Shropshire Light Infantry TA and Shropshire Royal Horse Artillery.

This museum starting from 1985 is housed by the Shrewsbury Castle to date.

You will find on exhibit, treasures assembled over the years, through hard-won battles but beautifully restored in the museum. Items include uniforms, silverware, pictures, weapons, medals, and artifacts traceable to as far as the 18th century.

You will love the ‘Modern Army’ display (revealing data of The Rifles), collections from the lords lieutenant of Shropshire, and the castle’s history.

They are open Mon-Wed (10:30 AM – 4:00 PM) while Fri – Sat (10:30 AM – 4:00 PM)

6. Stiperstones National Nature Reserve

Here is an atmospheric landscape and wild having a geology that bears national relevance.

Making up the ridge is the Ordovician ‘Stiperstones Quartzite’, shattered during the old ice age and thus creating the jagged landscape we currently see.

This reserve is habitat to the common frog and common lizard and some local birdlife like the raven, red grouse, skylark, red kite, and stonechat. Then invertebrates like hairy wood ants, emperor moths, and exceptional green hairstreak butterflies are featured.

Access to this reserve is open and well-used. Like the 8km Stiperstones Stomp path which exposes the ridge and countryside amongst others.

Address: Shrewsbury SY2 6AH.

7. Attingham Park

In the late 18th century, this mansion was designed and constructed for Noel Hill. He helped William Pitt the Younger in restructuring the East India Company.

The Attingham park had its design done by Humphrey Repton -a Greta landscape designer of the 18th century- with a deer park and a woodland to peruse.

While on a tour, you will get to learn about the Berwick family, see their lovely painting collections and furniture, and listen to the story of how they lost their fortune.

Of special note is the circular boudoir which you will see and also learn how during the 1940s, the hall was transformed into an education college for adults.

You will also bump into a walled garden and a fruit orchard. The garden was restored in 2008 after a gradual transition while the fruits are served in the estate’s tearooms.

Attingham Park is full of varieties and you’ll never get tired.

Address: Attingham Park Estate Office, Path, Attingham, Shrewsbury SY4 4TP .

8. Haughmond Hill

Take a drive to the East of Shrewsbury, just a few miles to locate the Haughmond Hill. A low hill, 150 meters in height having a broad base and rise.

The Haughmond Hill is kind of a country park for Shrewsbury, with the hill close to the town and wrapped in a forest. From here you can get an excellent view of the town and also the Shropshire countryside.

For any geologist or as one, you will be intrigued by this hill as it is made of very old Precambrian Turbidite which were deposited in the formation of a continent and into the ocean.

You will see benches by the sides where you can relax and meditate on the views down the west. You can also walk into the woodlands where you can spot some wild like deers.

9. St Mary’s Church

One of the top things to do in Shrewsbury is a visit to St Mary’s Church. In 1987, this church, which was known to be the largest in Shrewsbury was declared redundant, currently it is placed under the care of the Churches Conservation Trust.

This building has an architectural design of Norman and Gothic styles with stories having that it was founded in the 10th century by the Anglo-Saxon King Edgar.

St Mary’s Church stands today as the only complete Medieval church in Shrewsbury town, with the building full of both interior and exterior characteristics to keep her visitors in awe.

The stained glass is unique especially those at the chancel’s east window. They have the 14th-century drawings depicting the Tree of Jesse, that is, the ancestors of Christ.

You will also be happy seeing the tower, showing different shades of sandstone and featuring Norman windows on its lower floors. Another great art in the nave is the coffered ceiling, hewn from oak trees in the century.

St Mary’s church has numerous curiosities amongst which is an epitaph on the tower. This epitaph in remembrance of an 18th-century tightrope walker, Robert Cadman, who died when his rope broke.

Address: St Mary’s Pl, Dogpole, Shrewsbury SY1 1DX, UK.

10. Market Hall

The Market Hall is an inviting shopping attraction in Shrewsbury. It is positioned under the popular clock tower and is filled with stalls for seafood, fruits and vegetables, meat, flowers, specialist foods, nice confectionery, and baked goods.

Aside from the provisions and fresh produce, you can still check out the photography, art and crafts, or vintage and vinyl clothing area.

The food served in the Market Hall is a reflection of their cosmopolitan and stylish ethics. They serve oysters, tapas, Thai street food, and they have the appealing Bird’s Nest Cafe and a Chinese teahouse.

They are open, Tuesdays to Saturdays from 9am to 4pm

Address: 4 Claremont St, Shrewsbury SY1 1HQ, UK.

11. Clivewood Farm

One of the fun things to do in Shrewsbury is visiting Clivewood Farm.

They specialize in using the fleece obtained from their herds of alpacas and converting them into special handmade products.

You will meet a farm on a 60 acres space where alpacas are raised (started in 2012) and a weaving studio. Products range among various alpaca fibers used for hand-spinning, felting, and weaving.

Check out the alpacas on the farm, both the stud males and breeding females. Visitors are allowed to feed them, this makes what to do in Shrewsbury with the kids, sure your kids will love it here.

Visiting Clivewood Alpacas is an interesting Shrewsbury activity but this is done on appointment only!

Address: Clivewood Farm Wem Road, Shrewsbury.

12. St Chad’s Church

St Chad’s Church is a listed Grade 1 church situated at the top of the Quarry Park. This structure was built in 1792 to take the place of a 13th-century building which was ruined after the collapse of its tower.

This church is built in a Neoclassical Georgian architectural style and there are several things that make this masterpiece unique.

First is that in the whole country, St Chad has got the largest circular nave. There is a gorgeous space with slender Corinthian columns and a gallery. There suits no organ recitals of concerts better than here

Do you know that in 1809, Charles Darwin was baptized here? During his childhood, he attended this church also. On Fridays, there is a free lunchtime concert more like a local tradition now, don’t miss out.

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13. The Quarry Park

The Quarry Park is situated on the western stick out of Shrewsbury’s loop in the River Severn. The park occupies 29 acres of space and from the town center, one can embark on a leisure walk.

If you wish for a moment of relaxation you could go on a picnic by the Severn or walk along its avenues.

In 1719, the Quarry was landscaped with the Dingle (a stone quarry gotten from between the 16th century) being the center.

The 1870s experienced the first planting of this sunken garden and there is a statue placed among the flowerbed representing Sabrina, a mythological nymph who is believed to have drowned in the Severn.

Visiting the Quarry is special, as the summer calendar is dotted marking events like the Shrewsbury Regatta in May, the Shewbury’s Food Festival in June, the Let’s Rock Music Festival in July and the Shrewsbury Flower Show in mid-August,

14. Shrewsbury Abbey

The Shrewsbury Abbey used to a Benedictine monastery, dating from the 11th century. This building was lucky to survive the Dissolution of the Monasteries after it was converted into a parish church in the year 1540.

While other buildings with monastery inclinations were razed down, the church still stood. You will still see most of the original Norman structure intact. The Gothic transepts and the piers in the eastern part of the nave all preserve this history.

The whole image of this Abbey is the Decorated Gothic west window of the 14th century, It was glazed around 1388.

Between 1910 and 1918, Wilfred Owen -who is perhaps recognized as the best of Britain’s First World War poets- lived in this parish. You will see a memorial tablet placed at the west end of this church in his honor.

The abbey is open Tuesday through Thursday and then Sunday.

Address: 25 Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury SY2 6BS, UK.

15. Shrewsbury Castle

The Shrewsbury Castle was erected in 1070, during the Norman conquest by Roger de Montgomery. It is a red sandstone fortress that guards the head of River peninsula in Shrewsbury.

This current remains is from the 13th century during the reign and conquest of Edward I over Wales.

However, in the 1790s after the English Civil War in the 17th century, this monument was rebuilt by the celebrated architect and civil engineer, Thomas Telford.

The Shrewsbury Castle now houses the Shropshire Regimental Museum, where you can find displays of uniforms, regalia, paintings, and weapons.

Also, you will see the Thomas Telford’s Gothic Revival Laura’s Tower which is mounted at the exact location of the original Norman motte (mound) with its terrace giving you a view of the countryside and townscape in a panorama.

The castle is open from Monday through Saturday between 10:30 am and 4pm. Do visit as it makes one of the top things to do in Shrewsbury.

Address: Castle St, Shrewsbury SY1 2AT, United Kingdom

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16. Town Walls Tower

Built between the 13th and 14th century, this fortified structure is an essential part of the Shrewsbury county.

The Town Walls Tower, officially called Wingfield’s Tower is a preserved defensive tower that was built with sandstone, it has a height of 9 meters.

From here, one can observe the land in the southern area of the town and as far as the River Severn.

This is the last of all the medieval watchtowers which belonged to the former Shrewsbury town walls and is taken care of by the National Trust.

17. Sabrina Boat Trips

Just like the Severn is a major element of Shrewsbury’s past, going on a river trip is necessary if you are in Shrewsbury on a sunny day.

Sabrina Boat Trips is there to give you the perfect treat. Departing every day from the Victoria Quay, from the beginning of March to the ending of October, the Sabrina goes on a tour between 11:00 and 16:00(10am trip available May to September!).

It is a worthwhile 45 minutes trip, availing you lots of photo opportunities on this journey, but it returns with a running commentary done by the captain. You will enjoy every bit of this experience.

This makes what to do in Shrewsbury for fun seekers, there is also a bar on board that serves both hot and cold drinks. You can as well enjoy special dinner cuisine prepared for Tuesday evenings, a ghost cruise for Monday nights, and a lunch cruise on Sundays.

18. Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery

Established in 1835, this historic attraction is housed the Music Hall. They recently relocated to this location, a building built in a grand style architectural design and is situated in the city center of Shrewsbury.

This museum has gathered more than 300,000 objects over the past 200 years and more are still added to this growing list as the year goes by.

You will find a recent acquisition in the “Shrewsbury Hoard” in this museum. This was gotten from reserve Roman-era bronze coins uncovered by one metal detectorist in 2009. It is a must-see for anyone who checks in.

Just like the Shrewsbury Hoard, you will still see some other historical object placed in the very strong archaeology department, these include a Hadrianic forum inscription obtained from the closeby Roman town of Wroxeter, a Roman Mirror, and a Bronze Age hoard.

There is also an abundant display of Caughley ware, these are porcelain materials and wares produced at the Caughley China Works during the 18th century.

One thing for the kids to get along with is the “Maximo Mouse” trail running through the museum. It keeps them aware of the happenings but at their own pace.

The museum is open from morning to evening every day of the week. Take advantage of this!

Address: The Square, Shrewsbury SY1 1LH, UK.

19. Dana Prison

Ever since it was closed, plans have been made to turn this dominant building into a gym, housing, and shops. But, until then you have the opportunity of going inside in the company of ‘Jailhouse Tours’, a tour company.

You will be shown the communal areas, the Hanging Room, the governor’s office, and around the cells. All these are done by a guide who paints a real and well-detailed picture of how the inmates lived their lives, their normal routine as well as that of the prison officers.

You can also explore the tunnels under the prison, but you’ll need a hardhat and a lamp as you visit historic cells and observe the squalid prisons where inmates were kept some 200 years back.

Dana Prison is open seven days a week, do spare that time.

20. Historic Town Centre

How about taking a delightful course to the oldest quarter of the Shrewsbury town? It is simply one of the fun things to do in Shrewsbury!

Shrewsbury takes huge pride in its unique 660 listed buildings, a massive part of them are black and white. A handful of these houses are half-timbered and were erected during the blossoming era of the wool trade during the Tudor Times.

It was also from that period that Shrewsbury’s “Shuts”, comfortable passageways bearing evocative names like Grope Lane”, “Peacock Passage” and Gullet Passage” all came into view.

While you walk through this area, you will spend most time tilting your head behind as you examine the carved and patterned timbers, the historic reliefs, and flourishes.

At the Square, you will observe that the Old Market Hall is traced to the 16th century a has an autonomous cinema and cafe. This Town Centre is surrounded by the Severn.

One of the leisure activities to embark on in Shrewsbury is visiting the Historic Town Centre.

21. Theatre Severn

Welcome to Shrewsbury’s premier performing arts center, the Theatre Severn . This theater has a main auditorium with a 635-seat capacity and a Walker Theatre accommodating 250 seaters and standing of close to 500.

The complex was opened in 2009, a has massive pull in the region, with an audience from the mid-Wales and West Midlands being attracted.

As of 2015, more than a million persons had visited here. So, if you need some entertainment, the Theatre Severn is very ideal.

You would watch Shrewsbury’s Symphony Orchestra as they perform and you could meet the gala concert season which holds in July.

Theatre Severn is a venue for popular touring comedians, musicals, tribute bands, dance companies, talks featuring cultural figures, and stage for matinee shows.

A visit here makes one of the fun things to do in Shrewsbury, do consider for your bucket list.

Address: Frankwell Quay, Frankwell, Shrewsbury SY3 8FT, United Kingdom

22. Battlefield Falconry Centre

Battlefield is an old village in the northern suburb of Shrewsbury. One major reason for visiting here is because of its birds of prey attraction.

In the Battlefield Falconry Centre , you will see over 30 different owls, falcons, and hawks. These are all preserved in big considerate aviaries. You have a vast range of experience to profit from these birds, most especially the Hawks on Walks.

This implies you moving to the woodlands of the Albrighton Estate in the company of Harris hawk and a falconer.

While on this walk, the bird will fly into the forest and still return to its glove directly on its perch.

You can as well come for some bird handling sessions and spend the rest of your day learning about the best points of the falconry, this makes one of the top things to do in Shrewsbury for bird lovers, do consider for your bucket list.

Address: Battlefield 1403, Shrewsbury SY4 3DB, United Kingdom

23. The Bog Visitor Centre

The Bog Visitor Centre was once a school built in Victorian style, it is one of the few remaining buildings existing in a faded village known for the mining of lead and barite.

The Bog mine at one time had 200 buildings and a wonderful aerial ropeway.

Set in a historical geological landscape and recognized for the heroics of Wild Edric, the center has a staff strengthened by local helpers who excitedly always want to share their knowledge of the area.

The center welcomes close to 23,000 visitors yearly with some locally baked refreshment. There is enough space for car parking and this provides your ideal starting point to around the Stiperstones National Nature Reserve. Pets are welcomed too!

Open every day of the week, 10am to 5pm except on Mondays by 12pm.

Address: The Bog, Stiperstones SY5 0NG, United Kingdom

Explore other parts of England during your visit to Shrewsbury, here is a list of things to do in Filey and things to do in Cromer for a fun vacation.

Plan a Trip to Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury is full of exciting and captivating areas which you may not exhaust while in town. So, seize any opportunity to have at least an experience whilst you get it ticked on your checklist.

Why not make the most of your vacation by planning ahead of time. This piece can always act as a guide for you.

Do come along with your loved one and even the kids. They will certainly love the experience and even want more.

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25 Lovely Things To Do in Shrewsbury, Shropshire

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Disclaimer – I was hosted by Visit Shropshire but all opinions are my own. I recently visited Shrewsbury in Shropshire for the first time and I was SO pleasantly surprised. After a wonderful weekend, I’m here to tell you about the countless things to do in Shrewsbury and where to eat, drink, stay and play. The first thing to know about Shrewsbury is that it ISN’T a city! Despite having a cathedral, it’s actually a town. But with over 600 listed buildings, a museum, cinema, theatre, river, parks, shopping and fantastic food and drink, it’s well worth a visit.

Shrewsbury is almost an island, nestled in a loop of the River Severn, full of crisscrossing medieval streets lined with wonky buildings and independent shops and cafes. The historical nature reminded me of York, Oxford or Bath while the cool local businesses made me think of Brighton or Bristol .

Getting to Shrewsbury

Direct trains run from Wolverhampton, Birmingham and Manchester. Regular trains from London Euston take 2.5 hours changing in Birmingham. We travelled with West Midlands Railways on comfy, on-time trains. Most of the top Shrewsbury attractions are easy to reach on foot so you don’t need to worry about transport while there, provided you’re staying centrally.

Where to stay in Shrewsbury

There are a range of accommodations for all budgets with some seriously stunning properties to pick from. With centuries of history, many lodgings are inside period buildings, some preserved as they were centuries ago and others boasting modern revamps.

Wesley House, Fish Street

Wesley House is a cosy cottage on attractive Fish Street, perfectly placed for sightseeing in Shrewsbury. Dating back to the 1500s, it’s a restored historic building with wood panelling and original features including a cosy wood-burning fireplace and old kitchen range. 

It has a lounge, kitchen, pantry, modern shower room, a double bedroom, twin room and a single room suitable for a child or small adult. Outside is a lovely, sunny courtyard.

John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist church preached from here in 1763.  Book Wesley House on Booking.com .

Browse all Shrewsbury accommodation on Booking.com .

Things to do in Shrewsbury

Despite its quaint feel, you won’t get bored in this charming Shropshire town. From market shopping to historic castles and many, many eateries, we whiled away two and a half days easily. Here are the top attractions in Shrewsbury starting with one of the oldest…

For more activities, events and tips, check out the Visit Shropshire website

1. Marvel at Shrewsbury Castle

This 11th-century castle with its red sandstone walls is a Shrewsbury landmark not to miss. The grounds are free to visit, sit and even have a picnic. Inside, it hosts the Museum of the Shropshire Regiments dedicated to the King’s Shropshire Light Infantry. 

2. Climb Laura’s Tower for the best views in town

Climb a few steps up to Laura’s Tower , a Grade II listed building since 1972, for wonderful views across the town. The Town Walls Tower was built by the famous Thomas Telford in around 1790 for the daughter of Sir William Pulteney MP for her 21st birthday as a summer house.

3. Take a Sabrina boat ride

For a fun activity in Shrewsbury, take a Sabrina Boat Cruise . They run six daily boat trips around the River Severn loop with live commentary and table service. The 45-minute trips run on the hour from 11am-4pm (from 10am, May to September) from Victoria Quay near the Welsh Bridge. They serve drinks and snacks so why not live it up with a cheeky Prosecco? Dogs are welcome, toilets are on board and there’s disabled access onto the boat. They also offer a Sunday lunch cruise and themed trips including autumn ghost cruises!

4. Shop, eat & browse at Market Hall (my favourite thing to do in Shrewsbury!)

Beneath the iconic clocktower is the town’s award-winning indoor market. From Beijing dumplings to Champagne and oysters, there’s a variety of vendors from cool cafes to thrift shops, fresh fruit stands, butchers, vinyl records, organic wine producers and gin bars. The traditional and modern meet perfectly!

Highlights at Shrewsbury Market Hall :

• House of Yum – tasty Thai food with authentic details that’ll transport you to Bangkok!
• Petitglou Wine Shop – pop by for natural wines and small plates
• Gindifferent – a bar and cafe upstairs with gin cocktails and charcuterie boards made from fresh market produce.

Opening days: Tues, Weds, Fri & Sat (some stallholders open Thurs).

5. Browse at Market Square (Fri & Sat)

Don’t miss the beautiful 16th-century Market Square and the Old Market Hall at the centre of the Historic Town Centre. It’s home to several of the most important buildings in Shrewsbury as well as events and markets. The Old Market Hall is an impressive timber-framed building hosting a cinema and cafe serving teas, coffees and a selection of sandwiches (Mon-Sat only), cakes and snacks. We were lucky our trip coincided with Shrewsbury Farmer’s Market (held on the first Friday of the month) AND the Made in Shropshire market (on the second Saturday of the month) with artisan food and crafts.

6. Spot Shrewsbury architecture & historic streets

Discover the interesting street names such as Grope Lane and Fish Street (where the famous 1984 Christmas Carol was filmed) Wyle Cop, Pride Hill and Dogpole, and explore quirky passageways (called Shuts) which weave their way through the town. Look out for Bear Steps, Golden Cross Passage and Gullet Passage to name a few.

Another historic street is Wyle Cop with its characterful 16th and 17th-century timber-framed buildings. The Lion Inn was a coaching inn that held the record in the 1700s for the fastest couch journey from London to Shrewsbury: 16 hours! Shoppers will confirm Wyle Cop is one of the best places to visit in Shrewsbury. It’s said to be the longest row of uninterrupted independents in the UK, to this day boasting designer clothing, jewellery and vintage stores.

7. Step back in time at Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery

Visiting the Museum & Art Gallery (SM&AG) is one of the most cultural things to do in Shrewsbury. Uncover history via items including fossilised raindrops to Queen Victoria’s stockings and a fun photo montage of Darwin’s face. The Museum’s Stop.Cafe Bar boasts award-winning coffee, speciality teas and homemade cakes as well as a savoury menu including daily specials. Plus, there’s a lovely outside courtyard. Visitor details: Free entry; open Tuesday-Saturday from 10am-4pm & Sunday 11am-4pm.

8. Take a guided tour of the town

The Visitor Information Centre offers walking tours of Shrewsbury in the heart of the historic town. Knowledgeable guides will walk you through the history and notable sights during a 90-minute tour costing £9 per person. Starting at 2pm, Mon to Sat and 11.30am on Sun, the tours begin at the Museum.

9. Have a smokin’ time at Hickory’s Smokehouse

Hickory’s is an atmospheric restaurant on Victoria Quay inspired by Deep South cooking. With several trips to the States under their belts and even an OG meat smoker shipped in (that the kitchen had to be built around!), you can’t deny the attention to detail nor the bustling evening vibe, especially at weekends. From ribs to steaks, brisket and pulled pork, it’s a meat lovers’ dream although there are options for pescatarians (such as seafood gumbo and shrimp fajitas) and even vegans! I tucked into the delicious gumbo, a hot and spicy New Orleans-style stew with a giant pretzel on the side. We also enjoyed the cheesy nachos and creative cocktails (2 for £12 between 6 and 9pm on Fridays). The gin & raspberry collins was fantastic!

10. St Mary’s Church & cafe

Explore historic St Mary’s Church boasting one of the tallest spires in England. The church dates from Saxon times and has some beautiful stained glass. Stop off at the   River View Cafe for a locally sourced lunch with menu highlights such as satay sweet potato curry, sandwiches, baked potatoes and cakes. It has seating inside and outside on the terrace with stunning views of Shrewsbury’s landmarks. Situated in the old hospital next door is a Grade II listed building housing 20 or so independent shops.

11. Other religious houses

Other places to visit in Shrewsbury include:

• St Chad’s occupies the second-highest point in the town. Dating back to Saxon times, all that now remains is the 15th-century Lady Chapel. Don’t miss the fictional grave of Ebenezer Scrooge! In 1984, Shrewsbury transformed into Victorian London for the filming of A Christmas Carol and his headstone still remains.
• St Alkmund’s Church stands at the highest point of the town. The structure here today is part medieval and part Georgian with a tower and 56-metre spire.
• Shrewsbury Cathedral – steeped in history in a prominent position on the Town Walls, the Cathedral is a must-visit place in Shrewsbury, designed by Edward Pugin and completed in 1856. The Orchard Cafe is a new addition on a relandscaped site beside it.

12. Shrewsbury Prison

Another popular place for Shrewsbury sightseeing is the Prison, built in 1868. For many years, Shrewsbury Prison was a place of execution carried out in public and drew huge crowds. People used to arrive early to ensure a good seat and posters were produced as souvenirs. Gulp! But since 2015, it’s been a heritage-led Shrewsbury attraction. Also known as The Dana , it offers a wide range of heritage tours, activities and events including ghost tours and prison break events with 10 escape rooms. You can even stay overnight in your very own cell! The Prison Restaurant on-site offers excellent homemade food.

13. Stop by Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings (museum & cafe)

The newest tourist attraction in Shrewsbury (opened in September 2022) is Flaxmill Maltings . Once a purpose-built flaxmill, maltings and temporary army barracks in WWII, it has a pioneering iron frame that inspired the design for skyscrapers. It’s the building that launched a thousand skylines!

Interactive displays and fascinating architecture make it a great place to visit in Shrewsbury, a 20-minute walk from the centre.

Afterwards, don’t miss visiting onsite Turned Wood Café offering a delicious range of vegetarian meals and snacks in the form of paninis, homemade soups and cakes, plus hot and cold drinks including special house blend coffee. Entry to the flaxmill costs £7.50 for adults, £5 for children and £23 for families.

14. Eat brunch at the Loopy Shrew

The Loopy Shrew is a family-run restaurant and bar serving modern British food using locally sourced produce. We tucked into a tasty brunch of a full vegetarian breakfast and Eggs Royale. Reward yourself after exploring the many things to do in Shrewsbury with a leisurely lunch, dinner, afternoon tea or drinks including local and craft beers, cocktails and wines. For a lovely place to stay in the heart of the town, check out their 12 boutique bedrooms .

15. Follow the Darwin Trail

Did you know that Charles Darwin was born and went to school in Shrewsbury? Find his statue outside Shrewsbury Library which originally housed the school buildings. You can find the staircase to the old school rooms on the right-hand side as you walk in. Ask the friendly staff if you need a hand. Another location on the Darwin Trail is the Quantum Leap sculpture on the riverbank, built to mark Darwin’s 200th birthday. A final place to visit in Shrewsbury for Darwin fans is the Bellstone . Cross the road from the Market Hall to the entrance of Morris Hall (marked by a pair of black iron gates) and discover a large granite boulder in a small courtyard. This remnant from the last Ice Age was Darwin’s first introduction to the science of geology!

16. Wander idyllic Fish Street

There are few more attractive spots to wander and snap photos than Fish Street , leading to other notable streets like Butchers Row (full of excellent restaurants) and Grope Street, an atmospheric alleyway linking to the main road. While on Fish Street, make a pitstop at cosy pub, the Three Fishes Inn .

17. Visit Bear Steps Art Gallery and Medieval Hall

Historically, the central area was filled with traditional traders lending the surrounding streets names such as Butcher Row and Fish Street. Bear Steps is named after The Bear Inn Pub (no longer in existence) which was allegedly home to one of the city’s bear pits! For a lesser-known thing to do in Shrewsbury, pop your head inside Bear Steps Art Gallery , a small venue featuring work by local artists. Beside it sits a lovely cafe in a historic building with outdoor seating.

18. Drink cocktails at Blind Tiger

If you like to listen to new music in very old venues, mix mojitos in cool cocktail lounges or join a real ale trail, you’ll be spoilt for choice by original night-time finds. The Blind Tiger is an atmospheric cocktail bar in a characterful 17th-century building. With a 1920s bootlegger vibe, they play vintage blues and gospel with a modern twist.  

Other cool bars to check out include:

• The Libertine Cocktail Bar & Tearoom – a delectable tearoom by day, a trendy cocktail bar by night. With fine coffee and fifteen varieties of loose tea, it’s the perfect afternoon pit stop and a nighttime haunt with cocktails from the classics to inventive house blends.
• Ten & Six – in an iconic town centre building, this Champagne bar is inspired by Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.

19. Take a walk in Quarry Park

Visit Quarry Park and take a seat beside the river where you can watch passing boats or simply sit and have a picnic. At the heart of the Quarry lies Dingle Garden , a delightful sunken garden landscaped with alpine borders, brilliant bedding plants, shrubbery and charming water features. Perfect on a summer’s day!

20. Sniff out speciality coffee

Shrewsbury is a fantastic place for independent businesses and the coffee houses are no exception! We liked Shrewsbury Coffeehouse near the station with quality coffee, tea and cakes. For lunch, they serve homemade soup, bagels and the like. Another cute cafe I had my eye on is Palmers of Shrewsbury , a non-profit cafe in the central Baptist Church. Do your bit for a local charity by stopping for breakfast, light bites, drinks and sweet treats!

21. Historic Shrewsbury Abbey

It wouldn’t be a complete list of things to do in Shrewsbury without Shrewsbury Abbey founded as a Benedictine monastery by Roger de Montgomery in 1083 and easily accessed by a pleasant walk over the English Bridge. The part that still survives following the dissolution of the monasteries in the reign of King Henry VIII is still a Parish Church to this day. Brother Cadfael fans will recognise it as the setting for Ellis Peters’ books about a medieval monk.

22. Catch a show at Theatre Severn

A leading theatre (according to comedian Jason Manford, ‘easily one of the top 5 theatres in the country’), Theatre Severn is a modern building lit up at night in bright colours. Look out for the old chapel building which is embedded between the Stage Door and the public entrance. If you have time on your visit to catch a show, you’ll find a varied programme of music, theatre and comedy.

23. Time for your trip around a festival

Also known as ‘the Town of Flowers’, every August the town hosts the Shrewsbury Flower Festival (the longest-running in the world) as well as Shrewsbury Folk Festival . If you’re visiting in the summer, see if your trip lines up!

24. Visit the parks in Shropshire

Although we’ve now covered plenty of amazing attractions, if you’re still wondering what to do in Shrewsbury, consider a jaunt into greater Shropshire. For scenery and walks, it’s a majestic county with notable outdoor spaces not limited to:

• Hawkstone Park – with 100 acres of stunning scenery, this is one of Britain’s original theme parks. The landscape full of bridges, towers and caves has been inspiring visitors for over 250 years. In particular, the Follies are a range of dramatic natural sandstone hills developed to include gullies, caves, towers and bridges. Open on selected dates from Feb-Oct.
• Attingham Park – this National Trust property outside Shrewsbury is an 18th-century estate with 200 acres of parkland and a Regency Mansion. It’s open daily from 8am-6pm.
• Haughmond Hill – visit for beautiful views and extensive woodland suited for season-round walks. After drinking in views of the River Severn and the Welsh hills, refuel at Haughmond Hill cafe .
• Stiperstones National Nature Reserve – formed during the last Ice Age, this dramatic area is a walker’s dream. Take the 8km walkway or one of the many shorter trails soaking up striking landscape and spotting wildlife such as frogs, lizards and red kites.

More food options in Shrewsbury

Since eating & drinking is one of the best things to do in Shrewsbury (and also because of who I am as a person!), I couldn’t finish this guide without mentioning a few other local eateries.

Ginger & Co (brunch, lunch & coffee)

In a Grade II listed building just off the main square, Ginger & Co is a lovely venue with well-prepared drinks, tasty food and homemade cakes. We had a brunch of avocado on sourdough toast with a side of halloumi.

House of the Rising Sun (best Asian food)

The best Asian food in Shrewsbury has to be at the House of the Rising Sun , an atmospheric restaurant on Butchers Row. Expect modern Australian cuisine with an Asian twist. Choose from the Earth, Land and Sea menus with treats like bao buns, teriyaki beef, chicken katsu and sweet potato & crayfish empanadas. It’s tapas style so order 2-3 dishes per person depending how hungry you are. Between two, we tried the pani puri, bibimbap, takoyaki and tempura shrimp. Many of my favourites from my extensive Asia travels ! When we visited on Saturday night it was dimly lit with (perhaps a little too loud) tunes playing and drinks flowing. Dinner for two including a glass of wine each cost us £60.

St Nicholas Bar & Grill (in a refurbished church)

Located inside a converted old church, St Nicholas Bar & Grill is a licensed cafe, mezze bar and grill perfect for an early evening G&T or glass of wine. Pair your drink with mezze dishes include whitebait, beef kofte, scallops and calamari.

Dough & Oil (best pizza in town)

After a long day of Shrewsbury sightseeing, Dough & Oil is your destination for great sourdough pizzas, homemade sides, desserts, coffee, wines and craft beers. Over the road is their sister bar Oil known for cocktails, wines and live music. Classic margherita pizzas start from £9.50 or you can update for toppings including fennel & chilli sausage, pistachio butter, piquante peppers, gorgonzola, jackfruit and whipped ricotta (maybe not altogether, though!). Overall, the pizzas are inventive, creative and, more importantly, delicious!

Planet Doughnut

Ask anyone where to find the best doughnuts in town and they’ll tell you Planet Doughnut! With 5 stars on Trip Advisor , they’re known for their creative flavours like Biscoff, Terry’s Chocolate Orange and Cherry Bakewell. There are as many vegan ones as non-vegan!

Glouglou Wine Bar & Shop

GlouGlou wine bar is a lovely place in Shrewsbury near the station and Castle. Known for their wine tastings and live jazz nights, they’re also a member and supporter of Slow Food and serve small platters of cheese, meat, hummus, veggies and more. Also check out their little sister, PetitGlou , next door to their wine shop, Iron & Rose , in the Market Hall.

Free things to do in Shrewsbury

If you’re travelling on a budget , these are the top Shrewsbury activities that won’t cost you a penny…

• Hunt down Ebenezer Scrooge’s Grave
• Walk in Quarry Park and the Dingle
• Learn about the history at the Museum and Art Gallery
• Wander the Castle Grounds and climb Laura’s Tower
• Browse at Shrewsbury Market Hall
• Explore the quirky streets and passageways.

Thanks for reading!

I hope you have a better idea of what to do in Shrewsbury and that you have a wonderful trip!

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

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Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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The 17 Very Best Things to Do in Shrewsbury, Shropshire

• Post author By thebumpercrew
• Post date April 11, 2024
• Categories In England , Europe , Shropshire , Things to Do , Travel
• 5 Comments on The 17 Very Best Things to Do in Shrewsbury, Shropshire

Shrewsbury is Shropshire’s premier town, there’s no doubt about that, and with a rich history stretching back to at least 901, there are plenty of things to do in Shrewsbury to keep you occupied. Shrewsbury is supposedly famous for its wool industry, which led to the town flourishing in the 13th century, but closer to the modern day, Shrewsbury was also the birthplace of one of Britain’s most outstanding scientists – Charles Darwin. You can even catch a glimpse of him (in bronze, obviously) outside Shrewsbury Library, where his statue proudly sits. After all, he wrote On the Origin of the Species, which changed how humans thought about the world.

The 17 Best Things to Do in Shrewsbury

Anyway, back to Shrewsbury! It’s a cracking town with loads of things to do, so read on to discover the very best things to do in Shrewsbury to make the most of your visit! And if you’re looking for other places to visit in  Shropshire , read our post about  Ironbridge ,  Ludlow  and  Bridgnorth  – three other fantastic towns to see in this beautiful county.

1 | Wander the Tudor Town Centre

If you’ve been with us for a while, you know we love to explore places by foot, and Shrewsbury is another best explored by foot. That’s because it’s not that big and there are tons of interesting places to see around the town, such as Old Market Hall in Shrewsbury Square, which was the epicentre of the town.

We recommend parking by Shrewsbury Abbey and walking over English Bridge into the town. From there, walk along Town Walls to see The Crescent and immediately opposite, take a look up Belmont to see the beautiful row of houses on the corner.

After you’ve admired these spots, keep walking to Saint Chad’s Church and turn right down Claremont Hill. This will bring you to the bottom of town and to the next place on our list of things to do in Shrewsbury.

2 | Visit Shrewsbury Market Hall

We love a good market here at The Bumper Crew, and Shrewsbury comes to the rescue with its fantastic Market Hall. Established in 1869, this multi-award-winning indoor market has over 50 independent retailers ready to serve you almost anything you want. Inside, you’ll find butchers, bakers (but probably not candlestick makers!), and tons of stuff in between. And if you fancy coffee and a sweet treat, we recommend you head upstairs to The Market Cafe, where you will find awesome coffee and insane cakes and bakes!

Shrewsbury Market Hall is easy to find, too! Just look for the massive clock tower with the classic 1960s architecture. It’s inside that building! Shrewsbury Market Hall also has a snazzy website , giving you more information about the place.

Address: Shrewsbury Market Hall, Claremont St, Shrewsbury, SY1 1HQ

3 | Have Coffee at a Cat Cafe

We love coffee, and we love cats, and this place combines the two! And if you love cats, this is something in Shrewsbury you can’t miss! Paws Cafe is Shropshire’s original cat cafe and is home to over ten cats. So, here’s the concept – you pay for your time in Paws Cafe, not your drinks, of which you can drink as many non-alcoholic beverages as you want. After your time is up, you can extend it by paying a little extra, or you can leave. Simple. Thankfully, Paws Cafe also makes great coffee and not just great cats, so it’s win, win! They also run a loyalty scheme and host some events, such as the over 60s coffee morning.

We’ve visited a few cat cafes before, but this is the best we’ve ever been to. Why? Because the cats seem interested in you even if you aren’t feeding them. Maybe this is because they could smell our cats. Either way, we’re sure you’ll get to interact with the gorgeous cats in Paws Cafe.

Address : Paws Cafe, 53 Mardol, Shrewsbury, SY1 1PP

4 | Delve Into an Antiques Treasure Trove

If you’re into antiques, this one of the things to do in Shrewsbury is for you! Step inside and head downstairs to a world where your eyes won’t keep up with the amount of stuff to look at. Get lost amongst the treasure trove of stuff, from military memorabilia to vintage clothing, cameras and cabinets. We’re sure you’ll find something inside Shrewsbury Antiques Centre that catches your eye. And here’s a question: why do we all love antique shops so much? Comments at the bottom of the post, please!

Address : Shrewsbury Antique Centre, Princess House, 15 The Sq, Shrewsbury, SY1 1JZ

5 | Explore Prison Life at Shrewsbury Prison

You may have seen the inside of Shrewsbury Prison and not even known. That’s because it’s featured in a few TV series, including BBC’s Time with Sean Bean, ITV’s Prey and Most Haunted. Look for cell 39 – it was used for BBC’s Time and was the cell Sean Bean’s character used throughout the series.

As crazy as it may sound, you are taken on a journey of the history of hanging in Shrewsbury Prison, and it’s more fascinating than you could imagine. You even see the cell and the hole in the floor where the prisoners were hung. And did you know the last hanging at Shrewsbury Prison was of 21-year-old George Riley on the 9th of February 1961?

Address : Shrewsbury Prison, The Dana, Shrewsbury, SY1 2HP

6 | Escape a Prison Cell

If you’ve been following us for a while, you might know we are huge fans of escape rooms like the one in Birmingham. And Shrewsbury is home to a pretty unique one where you get to escape from a prison cell! Despite the small size of the cell and the small number of things in there, the team have done an excellent job making it interesting, entertaining and quite tricky! Ha! The other benefit of the Shrewsbury Prison escape room is that you get access to Shrewsbury Prison included in the ticket price, winner!

7 | Visit Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery

Nestled on the edge of The Square sits the Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery, also known as SM&AG. Established in 1835 elsewhere in Shrewsbury, SM&AG is now housed in the Music Hall, a fancy Victorian building redeveloped in 2009.

In the museum, you’ll find a selection of exhibits showcasing archaeology, geology and fossils, decorative arts & ceramics and the social & industrial history of Shrewsbury, which collectively contains more than 300,000 items.

Address : Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery, The Square, Shrewsbury, SY1 1LH

8 | Walk the River Severn

Shrewsbury sits within a loop of the River Severn, which is Britain’s longest river, did you know? So if you fancy a peaceful stroll, this is for you. A mosey along the river is just one of life’s simple pleasures. We recommend you start at Welsh Bridge and follow the river path until you reach the weir and Weir Cafe, then wander back into the town, past Shrewsbury Prison.

9 | Go Canoeing

If you don’t fancy walking along the river and would prefer to get on it, Shrewsbury offers you the chance to get on the water! You can hire a canoe (or bring your own). Click here for more information on canoe hire in Shrewsbury. Another great place to get on the water in Shropshire is Ironbridge .

Address : Frankwell Quay, Shrewsbury, SY3 8LG

10 | Visit Shrewsbury Castle & Soldier of Shropshire Museum

Shrewsbury Castle is one of the oldest surviving buildings in Shrewsbury, dating back to circa 1067 and is home to a couple of other bits mentioned below. The grounds are free to enter, but you’ll have to pay to enter the castle. If you don’t fancy going in, grab your lunch and head for the benches inside the grounds – it’s a beautifully peaceful spot away from the bustling town.

You’ll also find the Soldiers of Shropshire Museum located inside Shrewsbury Castle, a collection of weapons, uniforms, medals and silverware showcasing the evolution of over 300 years of the British Army and the sacrifices made by Shropshire Soldiers. Well worth a visit if you’re interested in the military and military history.

Address : Shrewsbury Castle, Castle St, Shrewsbury, SY1 2AT

11 | Climb Laura’s Tower

Inside the grounds of Shrewsbury Castle sits Laura’s Tower. It doesn’t offer much other than some fantastic panoramic views over Shrewsbury, and that’s enough to make it worth your time to pop up.

12 | Visit Quarry Park & The Dingle

Quarry Park has been a recreational ground for Shrewsbury since the 16th century and offers the perfect place to relax, walk or enjoy a picnic on a summer’s day. You can even fish along the banks of the River Severn!

The Quarry also hosts some events , including music events, a food festival, Oktoberfest and even a flower show.

The latter is because in the very heart of The Quarry lies the Dingle – a beautiful sunken landscaped garden that world-renowned gardener Percy Thrower cultivated. It’s pretty and peaceful and worth a wander in.

Address: The Quarry Park, Shrewsbury, SY1 1JA

13 | Take a Sabrina Boat Tour

No, not Sabrina the Teenage Witch, just a regular boat tour around this Tudor town named after the nymph of the River Severn, Sabrina (you can see the sculpture of Sabrina in the Dingle!).

The Sabrina boat sails daily from Victoria Quay. The trips depart on the hour between 1000 and 1600 and operate between March and the end of October.

The tour will take around 45 minutes and sails around to English Bridge and back, complete with an audio tour from the captain.

You’ll find a bar on board serving drinks and snacks, and they run special cruises, including dinner cruises, Sunday lunch cruises and even a ghost cruise !

14 | Marvel at Shrewsbury Abbey

Similarly to Shrewsbury Castle, Shrewsbury Abbey is another of Shrewsbury’s oldest buildings, dating back to 1083, when it was founded as a Benedictine Monastery by Roger de Montgomery. Surviving parts of Shrewsbury Abbey were used as a Parish Church and are still being used today.

Address: Shrewsbury Abbey, Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury, SY2 6BA

15 | Enjoy a Night Out

For the night owls among you, this is one of the things to do in Shrewsbury for you! Shrewsbury is a pretty upmarket town, and that’s reflected in its nightlife. You can guarantee a great night out in Shrewsbury with the town’s various pubs and bars.

For cocktails, we recommend visiting Blind Tiger Bar (they do a great spin on the espresso martini, the hard-nut espresso), Albert & Co Frankville and The Libertine Cocktail Shrewsbury.

16 | Find Ebenezer Scrooge’s Grave

Bah humbug, as the saying goes! We all know the story of Ebenezer Scrooge – the miser from Charles Dickens’s famous 1843 novel – A Christmas Carol. Well, you’ll find Scrooge’s grave in Shrewsbury. It’s located in the churchyard of St. Chad’s Church, not far from Quarry Park & The Dingle. It’s not real, of course, but it was placed there for the 1984 film ‘A Christmas Carol’, which was shot in Shrewsbury.

Address : Saint Chad’s Church, 1 St Chad’s Terrace, Shrewsbury, SY1 1JX

17 | Find the Deer at Attingham Park

Last but certainly not least on our list of things to do in Shrewsbury is Attingham Park. Last, because it’s not in Shrewsbury itself but a short 15-minute drive from the town centre and not least because it’s a remarkable place that we recommend you take the time to visit. Attingham Park has a fantastic manor house where you can discover how the wealthy used to party back in the day and, more impressively, a wander around a walled garden and gigantic 200-acre parkland – a parkland which is home to Attingham Park’s very own herd of deer, which you are almost guaranteed to see!

If you’ve been following us for a while, you’ll know we are loyal National Trust pass holders and love a good NT site, so check out our in-depth post about Waddesdon Manor.

Address : Attingham Park, Atcham, Shrewsbury, SY4 4TP

If you’re looking for other things to do in Shropshire, check out our guide to Ironbridge , Shropshire’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Is Shrewsbury worth visiting?

Yes, absolutely! Shrewsbury is worth visiting. There’s so much to see and do, and the town itself is lovely to wander around because of its age and interesting range of buildings, from classic Tudor architecture to gorgeous brick buildings.

What is Shrewsbury good for?

Shrewsbury is good for all sorts! Shrewsbury has a great cafe scene, superb nightlife and loads of things to keep you occupied for a day or two. Shrewsbury also has a lovely array of Tudor buildings spread throughout the town.

Is Shrewsbury a medieval town?

Yes, Shrewsbury is a medieval town, specifically a Tudor town. Tudor architecture was the final development of medieval architecture in England and Wales, and Shrewsbury has some fine examples of it spread throughout the town.

17 Things to Do in Shrewsbury

• Wander the Tudor Town Centre
• Visit Shrewsbury Market Hall
• Have Coffee at a Cat Cafe
• Delve Into an Antiques Treasure Trove
• Explore Prison Life at Shrewsbury Prison
• Escape a Prison Cell
• Visit Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery
• Walk the River Severn
• Go Canoeing
• Visit Shrewsbury Castle & Soldier of Shropshire Museum
• Climb Laura’s Tower
• Visit Quarry Park & The Dingle
• Take a Sabrina Boat Tour
• Marvel at Shrewsbury Abbey
• Enjoy a Night Out
• Find Ebenezer Scrooge’s Grave
• Find the Deer at Attingham Park

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• Tags England , Europe , Shropshire , Things to do

5 thoughts on “ The 17 Very Best Things to Do in Shrewsbury, Shropshire ”

This is a great post, brings back lots of childhood memories. I lived in stour port on Severn and had lots of relatives in Shrewsbury. Thank you

We’re so glad you like it and took the time to comment. Have you got any recommendations for other places to visit in the county? We love Ironbridge, Ludlow and Bridgnorth too!

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14 Incredible Places to Visit in Shropshire, England

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Are you looking for the best places to visit in Shropshire? From exploring Ludlow to Iron Bridge, this is what to do in Shropshire!

When it comes to beautiful places to visit in Shropshire, you’re completely spoilt for choice.

It’s one of those really underrated places in England. I’m not going to say it’s a hidden gem, because places like Ludlow and Ironbridge are already famous, but it was the countryside that really surprised me. It really is absolutely stunning here (hopefully my photos in this post will show that!)

On my latest UK staycation , I went on the hunt to find the best places in Shropshire, and I completely fell in love with the place.

The views from the Stiperstones walk was enough to do that, but throw in little villages like Church Stratton and the history of Ludlow Castle, and I was completely sold.

Also, if you’re a foodie like me, then there are so many fantastic cafes, food markets and restaurants for you to explore. This place really is famous for food for a reason!

I always love places that have a wonderful blend of culture, history, outdoor activities, and of course delicious food. Well, Shropshire has all of that and a lot more.

If you’re planning a trip here, then this blog post is packed full of the best things to do in Shropshire. I promise you you’re going to have such an amazing time here, so keep on reading!

Where is Shropshire?

Shropshire is located in central England between the city of Birmingham and the Welsh Border. You can see it on a map here .

At nearly 1,500 square miles, Shropshire is one of the UK’s least populated areas, but it boasts some amazing sites and attractions.

This county is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site the Ironbridge, and the Shropshire Hills (which make up a quarter of the county) is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

We drove from London to Shrewsbury (the capital of Shropshire) in under three hours, which I thought was really good going. 

It’s about two hours from Bristol and Manchester, and only an hour from Birmingham, so it’s very accessible.

If you’re catching the train from London, you go via Crewe, and it takes a little over three hours.

Looking for another weekend break in the UK? Then check out my guides to East Sussex , Guernsey , Hampshire , Ribble Valley and Shropshire .

Best Places to Visit in Shropshire

If you’re looking for a few different days out in Shropshire, I’ve grouped these into three areas – Shrewsbury, Ludlow and Iron Bridge.  

Basically, you can use this guide for a day out in Ludlow, or you can choose some of the best places to go in Shropshire for a longer trip. Hopefully these will give you a very good overview of what you can do in Shropshire though.

As I mentioned, we started off our trip to Shropshire in Shrewsbury.

Built on original medieval plans, walking around town feels like stepping into a different era. There’s a castle (naturally), but I loved all the old Tudor buildings dotted around everywhere. There are over 660 listed buildings here, and they really give character to the town.

When you look at the map of Shrewsbury, it’s almost an island with the River Severn looping around the town.

Because of this, one of the best ways of seeing Shrewsbury is from the water. We hired a canoe with Hire A Canoe (it’s all in the name really), and went for a gentle paddle along the river.

We floated past places like the Quarry Gardens (the main park in Shrewsbury) and the Charles Darwin monument. Darwin was born and bred in Shrewsbury, so it was pretty cool seeing a monument to him.

There are a few different tours to choose from with Hire A Canoe. Most of them are two-hour self-guided trips, but there is an epic six-hour tour in there too. I wish we had time for that one.

It’s cheap too, costing only £30 per person for everything (including transportation). This really is such a special way of seeing Shrewsbury!

The Boathouse Inn

Our canoe trip ended just by Quarry Gardens. From there, we went to The Boathouse Inn , one of the best restaurants in Shrewsbury overlooking the River Severn.

We were lucky to grab a table on the terrace right beside the water, and it was such a beautiful spot.

I had the grilled spiced salmon with okra and daal, and it was delicious.

I would say one thing about this place though. Make sure you bring you appetite because the portion sizes are massive (which is a good thing of course!)

Shrewsbury Castle

If you’re searching for one of the top Shropshire attractions, Shrewsbury Castle is always near the top.

Shrewsbury’s history dates back to around 800 AD when the town when people first settled there.

It wasn’t until the Welsh starting attacking in 1069 that they thought “hang on, we need a castle here”, so it was built the following year in 1070. I told you Shropshire had some serious history!

It’s free to enter the castle grounds (it’s an amazing spot for lunch), but you can also get tickets to the Shropshire Regimental Museum inside the castle.

One of the prize exhibits is the baton of the German Admiral Doenitz, captured by soldiers of the King’s Shropshire Light Infantry at the very end of World War II. Doenitz had been nominated as Hitler’s successor, so it’s a pretty important artifact.

Flaxmill Maltings

Culturally, the Flaxmill Maltings is one of the top attractions in Shropshire.

This building might look like any other mill, but it’s considered to be the grandfather of the skyscraper.

Built in 1797, this was the first building in the world to use a solid iron-framed structure. These blueprints for using an iron-framed structure essentially went on to create the modern skyscrapers we see today.

Derelict for many years, the Flaxmill Maltings is being loving resorted by Historic England with a new multi-million-pound refreshment.

Opening in Spring 2022, the new Flaxmill Maltings will be a historic museum to the past. It will also have shiny new offices, a café, and an observation platform at the top of the Jubilee Tower. We had a sneak peek at the top of the Jubilee Tower and the views are great!

The Loopy Shrew

This is one of the things that I loved about Shropshire, even unassuming pubs can serve up incredible food.

The Loopy Shrew is a family run restaurant and bar with a few boutique rooms right in the heart of Shrewsbury.

The Loopy Shrew serves modern British food using locally sourced producers, and it’s a cracking place for dinner.

I had the crispy pork belly with a wild garlic velouté, a potato rosti, wilted spinach, charred tender stem broccoli and a pancetta crumb. Honestly, it was one of the best pork bellies I’ve had in such a long time!

Love2Stay is often described as the Centre Parks of Shropshire. It’s a cross between caravan park, luxury safari tents (each with its own private hot tub, of course), and adventure park all in one.

Facilities include an adventure play park for the kids, an assault course for the adults, a small lake where you can go paddleboarding, and a outside swimming pool too. There’s also a Cinedrome where you can catch a film, or you can relax in one of the tents.

Obviously we weren’t caravanning, so we stayed in one of the safari glamping tents. These were surprisingly spacious – you could easily sleep a family of six in a tent.  They came with their own dining room, lounge and kitchen too, so everything you need for a self-catered holiday away.

Outside, each tent comes with its own hot tub and bbq pit. We ate in Shrewsbury that night, but I wish we had some food for the bbq. Our neighbours were cooking one and it smelled delicious!

These are some of the best places to visit near Ludlow. We drove from Shrewsbury to Ludlow in the morning, so if you want the prefect start to the day, head to Long Mynd first.

For me, it’s views like this which is why I loved Shropshire so much!

On the way from Shrewsbury to Ludlow, you have to pass through a tiny place called Church Stretton, a stunning village to visit in Shropshire.

Saying that, on this drive you’ll pass through loads of pretty villages near Ludlow that are well worth stopping off at!

If you make a slight detour into the hills, you will drive along the Burway Road. This is billed as one of the most scenic roads in the UK, and it did not disappoint. The views as you get higher and higher are just spectacular.

It only took 10 minutes of driving on the Burway Road before we made it to a car park at the top of Long Mynd. From there, we parked up and went for a short walk to take in the stunning views.

There are loads of fantastic walks in the area (like this one ), and on a clear day you can see the Brecon Beacons and the Malverns too.

This is definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Shropshire, so make sure you add it to the list!

Ludlow Farm Shop

Just on the outskirts of Ludlow you’ll find the Ludlow Farm Shop .

To kick things off, we had a tasty breakfast of eggs Benedict in Ludlow Kitchen (the on-site restaurant they have here). This is a converted barn serving up breakfast and lunch. Even though we were here for breakfast, they’re really famous for their tea and cakes. The scones looked particular good.

After breakfast we meandered over to the farm shop. This is a foodies dream with row after row of yummy goodies just waiting to be discovered.

The farm shop celebrates local produce, and a lot of the food such as the bread and the jams are made on site. All of the beef, lamb and pork comes from the farm, along with the milk used to make the cheese and dairy products.

If you’re looking at picking up a few treats to take home with you, this is the place to find them. Oh, and I can’t recommend their bestselling cheese (the cheese with no name) enough!

Ludlow is a thriving market town that’s famous for food and architecture. The town itself has over 500 listed buildings dotted all around it, so one of the best things you can do here is go for a walk and take them all in.

It’s also got an amazing reputation for food. From fine-dining to the food market, there is something for everyone and every budget. And it’s all delicious too (just try the Indian spiced buns from the Deli to prove that).

The second and fourth Thursday of every month is a local farmer’s market. This showcases the best produce in the area. There are also a number of food stalls you can eat at, so this is a good time visiting Ludlow.

Another great time to visit is in September. This is when they have the Ludlow Food Festival in the grounds of Ludlow Castle. This is one of the best food festivals in the UK, so it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re planning a trip to Shropshire.

Ludlow Castle

Standing proudly over the town is Ludlow Castle .

Built in 1066, the castle has seen more than its fair share of history. This actually used to be where the Royal family lived before Windsor Castle (we’re talking a fair few hundred years ago though), so there’s the Royal connection.

What I loved about Ludlow Castle was how much you can explore. I’d recommend heading up one of the towers to the battlements – from here you’ll have the most amazing view over Shropshire.

Whenever I’m in an ancient castle like this, I always like imaging what life would’ve been like a 1,000 years ago. I suspect quite cold and drafty, but the views would definitely make up for that.

Tickets into Ludlow Castle cost £8 per person. For me, this really is one of the best things to do in Ludlow.

Fishmore Hall

Put your hand up if you love a tasting menu!? Then you need to stay at Fishmore Hall !

Located a short 5-minute drive from the centre of Ludlow, Fishmore Hall is a small boutique Georgian hotel and spa. Tucked away in the countryside, I was fully in relax mode from the moment we arrived. Or maybe that had something to do with the spa treatment I had soon after.

For me though, the real selling point of Fishmore Hall was the restaurant. This is a 3 AA rosette restaurant with a killer seven dish tasting menu.

The head chef Phil Kerry really champions local produce while challenge your tastebuds.

My favourite course was the pink peppercorn panna cotta with peaches and a champagne sorbet. It was really thought-provoking, and the perfect segway from savoury into sweet.

I really can’t rave about this dinner enough. Fishmore Hall is easily one of the best restaurants in Shropshire, and it’s well worth staying here.

For our last day out in Shropshire, we travelled all over a bit, but we started the day exploring the historic town of Iron Bridge.

Iron Bridge

Iron Bridge is always regarded as one of the best places in Shropshire, especially if you’re into your architecture and history.

As the name suggests, Iron Bridge is famous for its Ironbridge that straddles over the River Severn.

It’s thought that this is the birthplace of the industrial revolution. In 1779, the world’s first iron bridge was erected over the river, marking a turning point in English design and engineering. After it was built, cast iron quickly became the go-to material for building aqueducts, bridges and buildings (like the Flaxmill Maltings outside of Shrewsbury).

The Ironbridge was actually awarded a UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1986, making it one of the first in the world along the likes of the Taj Mahal. Basically, this place should be as famous as the Taj Mahal!

One of the best ways of seeing the Ironbridge is underneath it. That’s why we hired a raft from Shropshire Rafting Tours , so we could float under the bridge.

We picked up our raft from the kiosk beside the Museum of the Gorge. After a brief safety demonstration, we lazily floated down the River Severn towards the Ironbridge.

It was such a great way of taking it all in, and seeing other sites such as the Bedlam Furnace.

There are a number of different tours to choose from with Shropshire Raft Tours. You can hire canoes/kayaks, or go for a longer scenic tour along the Severn. Make sure you check them out to see what’s on offer.

Stiperstones

I’ll say this now. The Stiperstones walk is easily one of the best circular walks in Great Britain. Honestly, it really is that good.

What are the Stiperstones I hear you ask? Well, they are these crazy rock formations in the heart of the Shropshire Hills . It’s almost as if the rocks have been dumped here and long forgotten about.

The remarkable ridge of the Stiperstones is made of quartzite, an extremely hard, crystalline rock which sparkles in the sun. It really can be blinding on a bright day.

We went for an amazing afternoon hike to the Stiperstones. There is a 5.5 mile circular walking route which takes around two to three hours. Once again, the views of the Shropshire Hills on this walk were spectacular.  

We’ve written a guide all about the Stiperstones walk , so check that out too. This is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Shropshire though.

Hawkstone Hall & Gardens

This was our home for the night, the very grand and opulent Hawkstone Hall & Gardens just outside of Shrewsbury. Who fancies a 1920s Great Gatsby party here!?

Nestled within the hills of the rolling Shropshire countryside, you will find the magnificent Grade 1 listed, Hawkstone Hall & Gardens Estate. With ceilings gilded in gold, sweeping staircases, four-poster luxury suites with roll-top tubs and 88 acres of pristine gardens, this is a gorgeous place to stay at.

As soon as you step into Hawkstone Hall, you can just feel the grandeur of the place. Each of the rooms is named after a famous writer (we were in the Agatha Christie suite), and the 1920s art deco touches all over the hotel take you back to a different era.

With a room as beautiful as the Saloon Restaurant, they need to back it up with the food. Luckily, that’s just as good as everything else surrounding you, and we had a delicious meal here.

Another thing I really enjoyed about Hawkstone Hall was wandering around the gardens. It all felt very Jane Austin .

With so many incredible places to stay in Shropshire, this one is right up there with the best.

This post was in association with Visit Shropshire promoting some of the best things to do in the area. As always, views are entirely my own and without bias.

Are you planning a trip to Shropshire? Which of these Shropshire beauty spots was your favourite? Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below and I’ll get back to you!

Like this post? Then make sure you Pin it for the future!

About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

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Places to visit in Shropshire

Looking for things to do in Shropshire? With UNESCO World Heritage Sites, areas of outstanding natural beauty, and the best-preserved steam train network in England, Shropshire has it all. Visit Ironbridge Gorge, the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution and home the world’s oldest working cast-iron bridge, or ramble through the Shropshire hills, enjoying the V-shaped valleys and countryside as you go. You can also drive your own steam train, or dine in style on the Severn Valley Railway before you explore timbered Shropshire towns like foodie Ludlow and medieval Shrewsbury.

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Plan a day of horse riding with Country Treks

Horse riding in the beautiful South Shropshire countryside is something quite special indeed and is great way to admire the scenery.

Location: Stottesdon, Shropshire

Get on your bike along the Mercian Way

Discover ancient woodland and the Severn Valley Railway cycling from the Wyre Forest to Bridgnorth and back again.

Location: Bridgnorth, Shropshire

Enjoy a romantic escape at The Castle Hotel

Make time for each other at one of the most charming hotels in the unspoilt market town of Bishops Castle.

Location: Bishop's Castle, Shropshire

Test your head for heights at the Adventure Rope Course

The Adventure Rope Course is a 17 metre Activity Tower with lots of adrenaline-fueled challenges attached to it.

Location: Shrewsbury, Shropshire

Steam into the Severn Valley Country Park

Bring your picnic and arrive by steam train, the best way to see the peaceful, scenic valley of the River Severn.

Picnic in Shrewsbury’s Quarry Park

Established in the 16th Century Shrewsbury’s Quarry Park must be one of the oldest picnic areas in the country.

Walk with Offa in the Shropshire Hills

Follow in King Offa’s footsteps with 18 way-marked pub walks taking you through border country between England & Wales and along Offa’s Dyke.

Location: Clun, Shropshire

Tread the Kerry Ridgeway Ancient Drovers Route

Explore the Kerry Ridgeway by foot, bicycle or on horseback and follow in the footsteps of the drovers of yesteryear.

Take a trip to Ludlow Food Centre

A farm shop like no other, Ludlow Food Centre is situated in Shropshire’s gastronomic capital of Ludlow.

Location: Ludlow, Shropshire

Stay at All Stretton Bunkhouse in the Shropshire Hills

Experience the great outdoors with a stay at All Stretton Bunkhouse, nestled deep in the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Location: Church Stretton, Shropshire

Go to the oldest brewery in Shropshire

Bishop’s Castle is home to the Three Tuns Brewery, the oldest brewery still in operation in the country.

Visit the Dorothy Clive garden

The Dorothy Clive Garden was created as a demonstration of love. Discover the intimacy and tranquillity of this special garden.

Location: Market Drayton, Shropshire

Discover the Ellesmere Sculpture Trail

The Ellesmere Sculpture Trail is a series of sculptures by contemporary artists who took their inspiration from the landscape.

Location: Ellesmere, Shropshire

Plan your day out at The British Ironwork Centre

Buy goods made from metal work at The British Ironwork Centre.

Location: Oswestry, Shropshire

Take a 'Christmas Carol’ Guided Tour

Join a Christmas Carol guided tour to see some of the film’s most memorable locations.

Take a tour round Stokesay Court

Stokesay Court was the setting for the mansions scenes in the film version of Ian McEwan's best selling novel, “Atonement”.

Location: Craven Arms, Shropshire

Visit Shrewsbury Abbey, fictional home of Brother Cadfael

Visit Shrewsbury Abbey and follow in the footsteps of Cadfael, the monastic sleuth, where the books and TV series were set.

Visit the Dornier Do 17 display at the RAF Museum Cosford

See for yourself conservation work being undertaken on the world’s only surviving Dornier Do 17.

Location: Cosford, Shropshire

Get chilled at the Cold War Exhibition at RAF Museum Cosford

The National Cold War Exhibition is the only place in the UK where you can see Britain’s V Bombers: the Vulcan, Victor and Valiant.

Meet the Romans at Wroxeter Roman City

See the city that the Romans built for us - once the fourth largest city in Roman Britain.

Location: Wroxeter, Shropshire

Join the A-List on a narrow boat holiday

You just can’t beat messing about in boats and travelling at just 4 miles an hour you are sure to unwind.

Location: Chirk, Shropshire

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Nearby places to visit, worcestershire.

Come to this north-western county prepped for country hikes, stately-homes, castles and high-end shopping. Find a host of things to do in Cheshire.

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The heart of England is always a bustling hive of artistic activity. Enjoy ballet or comedy at the Birmingham Hippodrome and stand in awe at baroque architecture and an impressive collection of pre-Raphaelite art.

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Towns and Villages Around Shrewsbury

Acton Burnell Acton Burnell is a small and picturesque village some 8 miles south east of Shrewsbury. ... more details

Alberbury Situated within 1/2 mile of the Welsh border, about eight miles west of Shrewsbury, the village dates from the 12th century when Fulke Fitzwarren erec... more details

All Stretton All Stretton is situated about twelve miles south of Shrewsbury on the A49. Few places can have such a setting, between the Long Mynd on the west, slo... more details

Annscroft Annscroft is a roadside settlement about 4 miles south of Shrewsbury on the Longden-Pulverbatch road. Christ Church was built in 1869 and the roadside... more details

Atcham The name Atcham possibly means 'land in a river bend belonging to the followers of Eata'. St Eata, the patron saint of the village church (the only ex... more details

Bayston Hill East of the A49 is the common, flanked by the former Victorian Christ Church, a vast vicarage and the school, all with new uses, and a variety of old ... more details

Berrington The village lies about four miles southeast of Shrewsbury off the A458. Berrington church is built on Saxon foundations and the oldest and most treasu... more details

Bomere Heath The village, about six miles north of Shrewsbury, was originally a large piece of open common land with a sheet of water in the centre in the form of ... more details

Burlton Situated about ten miles north of Shrewsbury, the early years of this little settlement were stormy, with endless skirmishes amongst the English and W... more details

Cardeston From the A458 Shrewsbury to Welshpool road, the visitor's attention is drawn to Cardeston by the unusual, octagonal church tower. The village is appro... more details

Cardington Bordering Apedale, about twelve miles south of Shrewsbury, this charming, historic village is tucked away among the hills of Willstone, Cardington, La... more details

Church Pulverbatch Pulverbatch, spread in pockets among the hills, stands 9 miles south of Shrewsbury and is 600 feet above sea level, rising to 1,300 feet on Cothercott... more details

Clive Clive in an exceptionally pretty village, about eight miles north of Shrewsbury, most of the houses and the high walls, which are a particular feature... more details

Condover Situated about four miles south of Shrewsbury, little is known of Condover prior to 1086, but it appears to have been an established settlement at tha... more details

Cressage Cressage is one of the growing villages of mid-Shropshire, ancient in its origins, but now dominated by modern housing. It is situated beside the A458... more details

Cruckmeole The hamlets of Cruckmeole, Cruckton, Lea Cross, Arscott and Plealey lie some 5 miles west of Shrewsbury and less than 15 miles from the Welsh border i... more details

Cruckton The hamlets of Cruckton, Lea Cross, Cruckmeole, Arscott and Plealey lie some 5 miles west of Shrewsbury and less than 15 miles from the Welsh border i... more details

Eaton Constantine This village is situated on a south facing slope above the flood plain of the river Severn, about ten miles southeast of Shrewsbury. It can be seen fr... more details

Grinshill Situated about seven miles north of Shrewsbury, the village lies beneath a steep and thickly wooded hill, with a narrow lane through, the heart of it.... more details

Kynnersley The village of Kynnersley is situated approximately 13 miles north east of Shrewsbury and is part of the triangle of land between Wellington, Newport ... more details

Lea Cross The hamlets of Lea Cross, Cruckton, Cruckmeole, Arscott and Plealey lie some 5 miles west of Shrewsbury and less than 15 miles from the Welsh border i... more details

Lee Brockhurst Lee Brockhurst snuggles peacefully at the foot of the wooded slopes of Lee Hill. Called Lege in the Domesday Book (1086), a clearing or piece of open ... more details

Leighton The village of Leighton, about ten miles southeast of Shrewsbury, is bounded on the south by the river Severn and on the north by The Wrekin, and is o... more details

Longdon-upon-Tern Situated about eight miles east of Shrewsbury, few of the motorists rushing along the twisting road through the straggling village of Longdon-upon-Ter... more details

Loppington Loppington is a typical small Shropshire village, situated about twelve miles north of Shrewsbury. The church of St Michael and All Angels, was built ... more details

Nobold Nobold, just outside Shrewsbury, is a small, chiefly farming, area in the parish of Meole Brace. Nobold, formerly called Newbold, is possibly a deriva... more details

Picklescott The village which can also be spelled 'Picklescote', is situated in a hollow, 4 miles from Church Stretton and ten miles south of Shrewsbury, on the l... more details

Plealey The hamlets of Plealey, Cruckton, Lea Cross, Cruckmeole and Arscott lie some 5 miles west of Shrewsbury and less than 15 miles from the Welsh border i... more details

Pontesbury Early maps show the name as Pantsbury or Pansbury, which roughly interpreted from Welsh means 'fortified place of a man called Pant'. The valley is pr... more details

Ratlinghope Ratlinghope is a village lying below the Long Mynd in an Area of Outstanding Beauty, about fourteen miles south of Shrewsbury. Its name means 'seclude... more details

Ruyton of the XI Towns Ruyton of the XI Towns, which lies midway between Shrewsbury and Oswestry, was once a borough town and is mentioned in the Domesday Book. It gets its ... more details

Shawbury The village of Shawbury, about eight miles north of Shrewsbury, has occupied its present position on the North Shropshire Plain since Saxon times. The... more details

Shrawardine Six miles west of Shrewsbury on the A5 trunk road is a turning to Shrawardine - Shra to rhyme with 'way', war to rhyme with 'war', dine to rhyme with ... more details

Snailbeach Snailbeach is situated about ten miles southwest of Shrewsbury. The Stiperstones range of hills encompasses an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Int... more details

Stapleton The village, situated about six miles south of Shrewsbury, takes its name from the great Steplewood of medieval times, which covered the area from the... more details

Uffington The village of Uffington is situated 3 miles north of Shrewsbury. It is bounded to the south by the river Severn, and nestles in the lee of Haughmond ... more details

Upton Magna A few miles off the A5, about four miles east of Shrewsbury, snuggling below the southern side of beautiful Haughmond Hill, lies the thriving village ... more details

Waters Upton Waters Upton is a small village situated on an ancient site, about twelve miles northeast of Shrewsbury. In the Domesday Book it was called Uptone. It... more details

Weston Lullingfields Weston Lullingfields, lying 11 miles north west of Shrewsbury and 2 miles north of Baschurch, consists of three hamlets (Weston Lullingfields, Weston ... more details

Weston-under-Redcastle Weston-under-Redcastle is situated about 1/2 mile off the A49, between Whitchurch and Shrewsbury. It is a very picturesque village with a variety of a... more details

Wrockwardine The village of Wrockwardine lies 9 miles east of Shrewsbury, 2 miles west of Wellington and 3 miles north of The Wrekin, the famous hill. It is though... more details

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Shrewsbury & Central

Home  /  Destinations  /  Shrewsbury & Central

Discover our county town and surrounds

Shrewsbury is Shropshire’s county town and is perfectly placed in the centre of our rural county. Shrewsbury’s town centre is almost an island, encircled by a meandering loop of the River Severn. Within its loop are distinctive churches, Shrewsbury Castle, beautiful timber-framed houses and a sweeping riverside parkland known as the Quarry or Quarry Park.

The town rises from the river and will entice you in with intriguingly named streets such as Wyle Cop, Pride Hill and Dogpole.

It is rumoured that Shrewsbury’s Wyle Cop has the longest uninterrupted run of independent shops anywhere – can you count them?

As you would expect for a county town, Shrewsbury is an exciting Shropshire shopping destination. Large stores sit side by side with independent shops and our indoor market is renowned throughout the county and beyond. If you love independent boutiques, giftshops and galleries, prepare to be delighted.  Our vibrant, exciting indoor Market Hall, packed with quirky shops and exciting food stalls, has been voted Britain’s Favourite Market.

Find out more about Shrewsbury here

History and Culture

Shrewsbury is home to 660 listed buildings and most famous for being the birthplace of Charles Darwin. His statue sits outside Shrewsbury Library, the building that was once his school. The Abbey has been welcoming pilgrims since the eleventh century and it sits just outside the loop of the Severn – Brother Cadfael fans will recognise it as the setting for Ellis Peters’ books about a medieval monk. The stunning Tudor buildings all around the town will tell you more of our history and explain our claim to being Original Shrewsbury!

When you’re done shopping and sightseeing, Shrewsbury’s sleek bars, cosy pubs and highly regarded restaurants are waiting to revive you with excellent food and drink.

Surrounding Shrewsbury

Outside of Shrewsbury and into central Shropshire you’ll find inspiring places to explore, such as a splendid Georgian hall, full of stories and intrigue. Attingham Park’s vast grounds incorporate a deer park and a field turned into a children’s adventure playground. In this central region of Shropshire, you’ll also find the impressive ruins of the fourth largest city in Roman Britain, at Wroxeter or Uriconium as it would have been known. Following the River Severn will reward you with more glimpses of rural Shropshire. Climb the hill at Nesscliffe and watch for signs of a once well-known highwayman or just enjoy the delightful views from the top. St. Peter’s church at Melverley, right on the river bank, is a tiny timber framed church which has been a place of worship for at least 1000 years.

Happy exploring in Shrewsbury and central Shropshire …

Winter sunrise from the Wrekin ❤️ Brilliant 🎥 IG / @wander.where.aby.went

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

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Events Each year a number of major festivals and special events are held, including the world famous Shrewsbury Flower Show. The town has recently started to honour our most famous "son" by organising an annual . Our major Arts Festival will again run from June to August with a series of music, visual arts and theatre events. More Events

Plan your visit now! So if you would like to experience a piece of history, enjoy good food & entertainment and some very special shopping then Shrewsbury is the place. Most of what you need to plan your trip should be found on this site, but if not let us know and we'll try to add it at a later stage.

Planning an England trip in 2024? Consider these 16 top places to visit

Feb 26, 2024 • 10 min read

Gracious Bath is an excellent place to immerse yourself in England’s history and beauty © gowithstock / Shutterstock

The story of  England  stretches back more than 5000 years (and likely many more). Which means its impossible to escape the past here.

As you wander its historic urban centers, mysterious monoliths, misty landscapes and rugged  coastlines  and national parks , you’ll discover a country filled with unparalleled places to visit that are are the more compelling thanks to all those who have visited them before.

As you plan a trip to England this year, here’s our list of 16 historic, exciting and all-around fabulous highlights to consider.

1. The Seven Sisters 

While  Dover ’s iconic white cliffs grab the most attention, the colossal chalky walls of the Seven Sisters are a more spectacular affair, a four-mile roller-coaster of sheer white rock stretching along the Sussex shore and overlooking the waters of the English Channel. It forms an impressive southern border to the South Downs National Park , and is most dramatic at the towering headland of Beachy Head . Hikes through the grassy clifftop fields provide wide sea views, breathtaking in every sense.

Local tip:  Stop for a breather at the tiny seaside hamlet of Birling Gap, where the secluded beach is a sun trap popular with locals and walkers.

Oxford  lets visitors feel close to the brilliant minds and august institutions that have made this city famous across the globe. This rarefied world comes to life in the cobbled lanes and ancient quads where cycling students and eccentric academics roam. The beautiful college buildings and stunning architecture have changed little over the centuries, coexisting with a lively, modern, working city. As befits a city of students and professors, Oxford is one of the last bastions of the great British pub, with irresistible old watering holes dotted all over its central lanes and alleyways. 

3. Cambridge

In England’s other great historic university city, Cambridge , you can tour a  college , and spend time marveling at the intricate vaulting of King’s College Chapel . But no trip to Cambridge is complete without an attempt to take a punt (flat-bottomed boat) along the River Cam by the picturesque Backs , the leafy, green lawns behind the city's finest colleges – an experience that offers the best views of the exquisite architecture. Polish off the day with a pint at one of Cambridge’s many rustic pubs. 

In a nation packed with pretty cities, Bath  stands out as the belle of the ball. Founded by the Romans, who established the spa resort of Aquae Sulis to take advantage of the area’s hot springs , Bath hit its stride in the 18th century, when the rich industrialist Ralph Allen and architects John Wood the Elder and John Wood the Younger oversaw the city’s transformation into a model of Georgian architecture at its most refined . Bath is awash with golden stone townhouses, sweeping green crescents and Palladian mansions, along with appealing pubs and restaurants, and you’ll take great pleasure in plunging in. 

5. Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall is one of the country's most dramatic Roman ruins, a 2000-year-old procession of abandoned forts, garrisons, towers and milecastles marching across the wild and lonely landscape of northern England. While the Romans built the fortification to defend and control its territory, this edge-of-empire barrier also symbolized the boundary of civilized order in the ancient world: to the north of the Roman settlement lay the unruly land of the marauding Celts. Near Newcastle  you can visit Segedunum , the wall’s last stronghold, for an insight into life during Roman times.

Planning tip:  Hiking the full 84-mile distance coast to coast along the national trail takes around a week. If you have less time and your own car, you may want to select from a few of the wall's  highlights .

With its Roman and Viking heritage, ancient city walls and maze of cobbled streets, York is a living record of English history. A magnificent circuit of 13th-century walls encloses a medieval spider’s web of “snickelways” (narrow alleys), each one the focus of a ghost story or historical character. At the city’s heart lies the immense, awe-inspiring York Minster , the biggest medieval cathedral in all of northern Europe, and one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world. Admire feats of engineering of a more recent vintage at the National Railway Museum , the world’s largest collection of historic locomotives.

York’s long history and rich heritage are woven into virtually every brick and beam, and the modern, tourist-oriented city – with its myriad museums, restaurants, cafes and traditional pubs – is a carefully maintained showcase of that heritage.

Local tip: You’ll find some of the finest views of York from its old city walls, particularly the bucolic section behind the Minster. 

7. The Peak District

Curiously, you won’t find many peaks in the Peak District . You will find blissful miles of tumbling moorland, plunging valleys, eroded gritstone crags, lush farmland and ancient pocket-sized villages. This beautiful landscape attracts a veritable army of outdoor enthusiasts – cyclists, hikers, cavers and rock climbers – on summer weekends, while those seeking more relaxing enjoyment can admire the rural market and famous puddings of Bakewell, the Victorian pavilions of spa-town Buxton, and the architectural drama of Chatsworth House – the “Palace of the Peak.”

8. Brighton

Barely an hour’s train ride from the capital, the seaside city of Brighton has a quirky character that’s completely its own. Overlooking the English Channel on England’s pebbly south coast, this is a city that's long been known for its oddball, alternative character. The warren of streets known as the Lanes is a good place to soak up the vibe, with vegan cafes, espresso bars, chaotic pubs, record stores and bric-a-brac shops. (Browsers will be in heaven at local institution Snooper’s Paradise .) You'll also find the UK ’s biggest queer scene here, and the region’s best small clubs. The highlight for the sightseeing visitor is the Royal Pavilion , a 19th-century party palace built by the Prince Regent, who kicked off Brighton’s love of the outlandish.

9. Stonehenge

Mysterious and compelling, Stonehenge is England’s most famous ancient site . Even though people have been drawn to this myth-laden ring of boulders for more than 5000 years, we still don’t know quite why it was built. An ultramodern makeover at the ancient site has brought an impressive visitor center and the closure of an intrusive road (now restored to grassland). The result is a strong sense of historical context, with dignity and mystery returned to an archaeological gem.

Most visitors gaze at the approximately 25-ton stones from behind the perimeter fence, yet with enough planning, you can arrange an early-morning or evening tour and gain access to the inner ring itself. In the slanting sunlight, away from the crowds, it’s an ethereal place. This is an experience that stays with you.

10. Stratford-upon-Avon

The pretty town of Stratford-upon-Avon is where William Shakespeare was born and later shuffled off this mortal coil. Today, its tight knot of Tudor streets form a living map of Shakespeare’s life. Huge crowds of thespians and theater lovers come to take in a play at the famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre . Bard fans will love visiting the five historic houses owned by Shakespeare and his relatives and  the schoolroom where he was educated, before taking a respectful detour to the old stone church where he was laid to rest.

11. Liverpool

It’s hard not to be infected by Liverpudlians’ love for their hometown. The love endured despite decades of decay and all manner of social ills – finding its expression in a renowned gallows humor and an obsession with football. With some of the most passionate crowds in the country, taking in a game at either Liverpool FC or Everton FC is a rite of passage here.

Outside of the stadium, the rejuvenated waterfront is once again the heart of Liverpool . The focal point is Albert Dock, an iconic docklands flanked by protected buildings, including a batch of top museums. The Merseyside Maritime Museum and the International Slavery Museum ensure the good and bad sides of Liverpool’s history are explored in equal measure, while the Tate Liverpool and the Beatles Story museum celebrate popular culture and the city’s most famous musical sons (still).

12. The Cotswolds

A tangle of impossibly quaint villages of rose-clad cottages and honey-colored stone, The Cotswolds  is a region that spreads over six English counties. It’s a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and its most wonderful quality is that no matter where you go or how lost you get, you’ll still end up in a spot with a charming village green, a pub with sloping floors and fine ales, and a view of the lush green hills. Crisscrossed by long-distance trails including the 102-mile Cotswold Way , these gentle yet dramatic hills are perfect for walking, cycling and horse-riding.

Local tip: It’s easy to leave the crowds behind and find your very own slice of medieval England here – and some of the best boutique hotels in the country.

A little weird, occasionally weather-beaten and all-around wonderful, the classic northern seaside town of Whitby has haunted lanes, fossil-hunting and arguably England’s finest fish-and-chips. The huddle of 18th-century fisher’s cottages along the East Cliff are testament to its longtime role as a busy commercial and fishing port: it was here that 18th-century explorer Captain James Cook earned his sea legs. Atop the West Cliff, a sandy beach, amusement arcades and promenading holidaymakers show Whitby’s beach-resort side.

Keeping a watchful eye over the town and the River Esk that divides it is an atmospheric ruined abbey , the inspiration and setting for part of Bram Stoker’s Gothic horror story Dracula . But tales of witchery and ghostly legends have haunted Whitby ever since Anglo-Saxon St Hilda landed here to found a monastic community in 657 CE.

Planning tip: The town embraces its pseudo-sinister reputation, which culminates in two hugely successful Goth Weekends each year.

14. The Lake District

William Wordsworth and his Romantic friends were the first to champion the charms of the Lake District  – and it's not hard to see what stirred them. Already the UK’s most popular national park, the Lake District also became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, in recognition of its long history of hill-farming. But for most people it’s the chance to hike the humpbacked fells and drink in the gorgeous scenery that keeps them returning year after year.

The region is filled with outdoor pursuits, from lake cruises to mountain walks – excursions that help reveal why the region has such deep literary connections. In addition to Wordsworth, writers who found inspiration here include Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Arthur Ransome and Beatrix Potter.

15. The Eden Project

A cross between a lunar landing station and a James Bond villain’s lair, the gigantic hemispherical greenhouses of the Eden Project  have become a symbol of Cornwall ’s renaissance. Built in an abandoned clay pit near St Austell to mark the start of the new millennium, and now considered one of Britain’s modern architectural wonders, the Eden Project aims to explore issues of environment and conservation, and point the way to a cleaner, greener future for us all.

Exhibits cover everything from global warming to rubber production and chocolate-making. The glass-domed “biomes” recreate major world climate systems in microcosm, from the lush jungles of the Amazon rainforest (complete with treetop walkway winding through the canopy) to the olive trees, citrus groves and colorful flowers of the Mediterranean, South Africa and California. It’s incredibly impressive – not to mention educational, and inspiring, too.

Shoulder-deep in history, London ’s rich seams of eye-opening antiquity appear at every turn. The city’s architecture pens a beguiling biography, and a multitude of buildings – the Tower of London , Westminster Abbey , Big Ben – are internationally recognizable landmarks. It’s also a tireless innovator of art and culture, a city of ideas and imagination. This legacy is enshrined at world-class institutions such as the British Museum , Natural History Museum  and the Science Museum , as well as such world-leading art galleries as the  Tate Modern , Tate Britain , the National Gallery  and the recently reopened National Portrait Gallery , all of which are free to visit. 

Local tip:  However you budget your time and money in London, make sure you take in a show. Big names perform on  the West End (London’s equivalent of Broadway), and on the South Bank at the National Theatre  and  the Old Vic . Smaller theaters from the Almeida to the Lyric Hammersmith are places to discover up-an-coming talent.

This article was first published Apr 13, 2021 and updated Feb 26, 2024.

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