Shrewsbury
Shrewsbury, situated on the banks of the River Seven, known as a beautiful medieval market town is a delightful place to visit whilst in Shropshire on your UK coach holiday. The town is one of the UK’s most visited heritage cities. It is steeped in history and culture alike, which creates a timeless feel thanks to its black and white timber framed buildings which line the many winding streets. Nowadays Shrewsbury has a really vibrant atmosphere and has a great mix of small independent shops and designer shops, so there is shopping for everyone regardless of your taste or budget. It also hosts a calendar of festivals throughout the year for you to enjoy. The town has no fewer than 600 beautifully preserved listed buildings for you to admire, including the magnificent cathedral, castles and many museums.
If you choose to take it a little easier head down to the riverbank where you can enjoy a gentle stroll through Quarry Park or if you fancy hop on a river cruise to gain a different view of the town. On your coach holiday around Shrewsbury it’ll be hard to miss the abundance of flowers and plants which bring the town to life. It’s easy to see why the town is also known as the “Town of Flowers.”
Shrewsbury is well known for the evolutionist Charles Darwin, who was born and educated in the town. His connections can be celebrated through a statue situated outside the library where he went to school and down on the river you can admire an abstract sculpture called Quantum Leap found in the Geo Garden. If you enjoy history then whilst you are here take a trip to Shrewsbury castle or visit the stunning abbey.
Ludlow
Ludlow is another town to visit whilst in this county. It is the largest town in south Shropshire and the town is significant in the history of the Welsh Marches and neighbouring Wales. Here the oldest part of the town is the medieval walled town, founded in the late 11th century after the Norman Conquest of England. This town also has a lovely castle for you visit and the largest church in the county. Every day (barring Tuesday) the town hosts its own market for you to be tempted by many local treats to enjoy on your holiday or to take home as a gift.
On the outskirts of Ludlow you can visit Mortimer Forest if you fancy an escape from the town. It is really a great place to enjoy some fresh air and explore a variety of walking trails that are suitable for all ages and all abilities.
The Iron Bridge Gorge Museum Trust
The Iron Bridge is a World Heritage Site and the beating heart of the industrial revolution. The Iron Bridge is home to some amazing museums that really do make for an unforgettable experience when visiting.
The Iron Bridge Museums really must be on your to do list when you visit Shropshire. A highlight and one not to be missed is Blists Hill Victorian Town. This will provide you with an excellent day out for all the family to enjoy. Here you will find a recreation of a Victorian town where you really get a feel for what it was like in the Victorian times. There are many authentic shops and cottages for you to explore where you can buy curious good from a bygone era and you can experience trades people in action in their factories and workshops.
The Seven Valley Railway
For those of you out there who enjoy local railways then step back in time on the Seven Valley Railway. During your visit you can expect exciting steam trains, fantastic events and plenty to explore. The Seven Valley Railway really makes for a great day out and has over 250,000 visitors board its trains every year. As a passenger you can hop on and off the train to explore any of the Seven Valley Railway 6 historic stations or head to the Engine House visitor centre found in Highly which is packed with many interactive exhibits for you to enjoy. Take a trip to their restaurant too for some lovely local food and enjoy panoramic views of the local scenery whilst you relax on your holiday.
Hawkstone Historic Park and Follies
Created in the 18th Century by the Hill family, Hawkstone became one of the greatest historic parklands in Europe. It is centred around the Red castle and the awe-inspiring Grotto Hill. It offers hours of pleasure for visitors with stunning views of Shropshire and beyond. Hawkstone follies is a historical parkland that covers over 100 acres. It has many intricate pathways, ravines, arches and cliffs for you to explore.
Where to Stay?
For those of you who like the great outdoors Shropshire has award-winning camping and caravanning parks, which take you really close to the nature and local wildlife.
For those of you liking more home comforts you can consider renting a holiday cottage for the duration of your stay.
All of the towns in Shropshire have plenty of hotel and bed and breakfast options too so really the choice is yours.