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Shrewsbury holds the title as the second largest settlement in Shropshire and lies on the banks of the River Severn. Due to the town's proximity to Wales, first-time visitors will discover a strong Welsh influence in Shrewsbury. So if you are in search of a holiday destination with plenty of character and historical sites of interest, choose Shrewsbury this travel season.
History
Historians date Shrewsbury's founding to the 9th century. But other archaeological evidence suggests earlier habitation. The Welsh and the English battled over Shrewsbury for centuries after the town's settlement, particularly during the Norman conquests. Nevertheless, Shrewsbury reached acclaim during the Middle Ages as a bustling market town ideally situated on the River Severn.
Unlike most other towns in the West Midlands, Shrewsbury never played much of a role during the Industrial Revolution, instead relying on the textile trade for prosperity. Interestingly, Shrewsbury was the home of Charles Darwin, too; a fact the town's people are rather fond of.
What's On in Shrewsbury
Possibly the best aspect of town centre, Shrewsbury has retained much of the town's medieval layout. It is said that more than 600 grade listed buildings reside in Shrewsbury such as several fine examples of timber-framed structures typical of the medieval architectural design. Unlike most towns in Shropshire, this medieval influence is still apparent to this very day. So walking tours through Shrewsbury's narrow side streets and passages have become popular with first-time visitors with an interest in the town's heritage.
Some of the more striking sites include Shrewsbury Castle, an old red sandstone fortification, Shrewsbury Abbey, which dates as early as the 11th century, and the Roman ruins of Wroxeter. But Shrewsbury also has a large number of open green spaces to enjoy, too. Have a leisure stroll along the River Severn, or enjoy a day out in Attingham Park.
Of course, Shrewsbury's weekly indoor market is yet another fine attraction. The market is held on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, too. In addition to retail therapy, Shrewsbury contains many choice restaurants and eateries that feature locally grown produce and ingredients.
Travelling to Shrewsbury
The most direct route to Shrewsbury is the M54 Motorway through Telford, Shrewsbury's large neighbour to the east. However, notice that once you reach the terminus of the M54, you will have to follow the A5 towards the Welsh border in order to arrive in Shrewsbury.
Alternatively, you can choose to take the southern approach to Shrewsbury by utilising the A49 via Leominster and Hereford. Or you can take the northern approach by way of Chester. If you prefer to travel by rail, Shrewsbury Railway Station lies along the Shrewsbury-Wolverhampton Line.
Where to Stay in Shrewsbury
Due to the town's medieval preservations, accommodations in Shrewsbury include some of the most interesting places to stay in the whole of the region. Most of the choice hotels and bed and breakfasts are clustered about town centre. But if you are interested in riverside or countryside holidays, choose accommodations in parts further afield from Shrewsbury proper.
Accommodation in Shrewsbury
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