Holding the title of England’s largest inland county, Shropshire borders Wales in the country’s central east. It centres around the county town of Shrewsbury and is home to the world’s first iron bridge, as well as the magnificent Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Things to do

With its lively market towns, historic castles and rich industrial past, Shropshire is a must-visit destination en route between England and Wales.

Explore Ludlow Castle. Located in the south of Shropshire, this ruined medieval fortification is perched on a rocky headland overlooking the River Teme. Stroll through the scenic grounds to learn about the castle’s tumultuous history and photograph the crumbling stonework that’s been described as “the very perfection of decay”.

Visit the UNESCO-listed Ironbridge Gorge. Carved by the River Severn, the Ironbridge Gorge was originally created by a glacial overflow at the end of the last Ice Age. It’s named after the iconic Iron Bridge (the first of its kind when it was built in 1770), and once linked the industrial hubs of Broseley and Coalbrookdale with the mining town of Madeley.

Discover the Blists Hill Victorian Town. Established on a former industrial complex, this open-air museum recreates the atmosphere of a Victorian-era Shropshire town. Wander between the old bank, bakery and post office and learn about the importance of the iron industry before stepping inside the cottages and tin-roofed church where the workers lived and prayed.

Escape to the Shropshire Hills AONB. Much of southern Shropshire has been designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and encompasses charming villages and rolling hills traversed by walking trails. Visit the beautifully preserved manor house of Stokesay Castle and photograph the historic bridge over the River Clun or follow Offa's Dyke along the border between England and Wales.

Getting around

Birmingham Airport is around an hour’s drive from Shropshire while Liverpool John Lennon Airport is 1.5 hours away. Regular trains connect the county’s major towns and cities while buses serve smaller villages. Having your own vehicle gives you greater freedom to explore Shropshire.