Trains to Shrewsbury Station

A picturesque destination famed for its cobbled streets and black and white timber-framed buildings.

Shrewsbury is a medieval market town in the north of England with a proudly preserved history.

Ranked one of the happiest places in Britain to live, Shrewsbury is home to a number of historical landmarks that all the family can enjoy, whether you’re visiting for the day or the week.

Located on the River Severn near the Welsh border, the town is surrounded by areas of outstanding natural beauty, with the striking Shropshire hills to the south and Snowdonia National Park to the west. Just an hour from Birmingham and two hours from Cardiff by rail, Shrewsbury is the ideal stop for discovering British heritage at its best. 

Top attractions

Shrewsbury's bustling town centre is home to an array of attractions and plenty of green spaces to explore on foot. The town’s red sandstone castle is one of 660 listed buildings in Shrewsbury, and displays the impressive collections of the Shropshire Regimental Museum Trust. Another landmark not to be missed is Shrewsbury Abbey which was founded as a Benedictine Monastery in 1083, and recently rose to prominence as the setting of fictional historical murder mysteries, The Cadfael Chronicles.

Along the river lies the town’s 29 acre Quarry Park which hosts a lively calendar of events throughout the year. At the park’s centre is the Dingle, a superb landscaped garden featuring seasonal floral displays, best enjoyed during a leisurely stroll or summer picnic.

Culture and heritage

Blending extraordinary history and contemporary culture, it’s easy to while away a relaxing afternoon in Shrewsbury. Highlights include Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery set within the beautiful Victorian Music Hall building; Theatre Severn, a striking riverside arts venue famed for its theatre, music and dance; and the Darwin Town Trail, a fascinating tour following in the footsteps of world-renowned naturalist and geologist Charles Darwin who lived in Shrewsbury until his late twenties.

Shopping

Image thanks to: Shropshire Tourism UK Ltd

From the independent boutiques of the town’s labyrinthine streets to the designer brands at the stylish shopping centres, there’s no shortage of places to spend money in Shrewsbury. Located in the heart of the city, both Pride Hill and Darwin Shopping Centre feature an array of designer brands and high street retailers for a luxurious afternoon of retail therapy. 

Those seeking something a little different should head to the nearby Parade Shopping Centre, home to a delightful mix of local traders and independent boutiques, as well as a number of fun events throughout the year. Shrewsbury’s enchanted medieval streets including Butcher Row and Wyle Cop are also lined with independent retailers and not to be missed!

Food and drink

Around every cobbled street corner there’s a traditional pub, independent cafe and vintage tea room offering culinary delights to satisfy any craving! Serious food lovers can sample the best tastes of Shropshire at Shrewsbury Market Hall, and on the first Friday of each month, Shrewsbury Farmers Market comes to town offering the freshest local produce to tempt any taste bud.