SHREWSBURY TOWN GUIDE 2020 - Sabrina Boat
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FR
EE
SHREWSBURY
TOWN GUIDE
2020
originalshrewsbury.co.uk
Top - bottom: Theatre Severn, Wyle Cop, Charles Darwin and Mary Webb statues in School Gardens, Butcher Row, The Square, Quarry Park, St Chad’s Church, Sabrina Boat.
W ELCO ME
Shrewsbury loves people and we hope the feeling is Arrive 5
mutual. You can easily explore the town centre on foot,
bike or boat and discover plenty along the way. It’s Discover 7
not just a place full of flowers, medieval passages and
café culture, Shrewsbury is packed with independent Eat 11
and national shops, restaurants and bars as well as
must-visit international festivals. Drink 15
If you need more information call the Visitor Shop 19
Information Centre on 01743 258888, pop into it’s
office in the Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery or ask Map 24
one of the Shrewsbury Ambassadors you’ll see around
town from Easter until August . Events 27
YOU CAN’T COPY SHREWSBURY Explore 29
Do 33
Enjoy 36
Roam 39
48 Hours 42
Stay 45
For more information visit
orginalshrewsbury.co.uk & visitshropshire.co.uk
ORIGINAL S H R E W S B U RY AMBASSADORS From 11th April until late September visitors to Shrewsbury can discover the full range of what the town has to offer thanks to our team of Ambassadors. The Ambassadors, introduced in 2019, work alongside the Shrewsbury Town Guides and help visitors discover the hidden gems in the town. Ambassadors are on duty on them at points throughout the town Saturdays and Sundays from 10am and they can be spotted wearing to 2pm. Their aim is provide a better their bright blue tops and a experience for visitors and to help welcoming smile! them make the most of all that You can also volunteer by going to the Shrewsbury has to offer. You’ll find website below. For more information: t: 01743 358626 | w: originalshrewsbury.co.uk Shrewsbury BID working in partnership with Shrewsbury Town Council and Shrewsbury Tourism Association
ARRIVE
Castle Street and Shrewsbury Library
There are many ways to get to Shrewsbury, from the Grade II listed railway station
to Roman roads and bridges crossing Britain’s longest river, the River Severn.
Don’t take our word for it though, come and see for yourself.
BY CAR There are two daily National your badge and clock must
Shrewsbury is accessible via Express Coach services from still be on display. All Park &
the A5 and M54. From Monday London with connections from Ride buses are wheelchair
to Saturday there is a Park & other towns on the network, accessible and normal charges
Ride service directly into the all stopping in the town apply. For more advice call
town centre every 20 minutes centre. For more information the Car Park Service Office on
from three car parks (see p47). please call 08717 818178 or visit 01743 356628.
You can travel for half price if www.nationalexpress.com.
Raven Meadows car park runs
you have an English bus pass. a Shopmobility service. Electric
TAXIS
There are a number of Pay & scooters and wheelchairs are
There is a taxi rank at the train
Display car parks in the town available for hire. Reservations
station or you can phone:
(see p47). Parking is free all are recommended. The service
day Sunday at Frankwell and ABC Cars 01743 545454 is available from Monday to
Abbey Foregate car parks. Shrewsbury Taxis 01743 242424 Saturday, 9.30am - 4.30pm.
Raven Meadows multi-storey Go Carz 01743 441144 Please call 01743 236900
car park is open 24/7. for details.
DISABLED ACCESS
If you’re in a camper van, you There are designated spaces
It’s a fact...!
can park at the Park & Ride with time restrictions on
sites and at Abbey Foregate Shoplatch, Castle Street, St.
car park. Mary’s Street, Claremont
The largest operational
Street, Princess Street, High
BY TRAIN OR COACH Street and Roushill, but make
mechanical signal box
There are direct train services sure your badge and clock are (in terms of levers) in
to and from Birmingham, on display. Europe is Shrewsbury’s
Cardiff, Holyhead, London Severn Bridge Junction
and Manchester. For more The car parks have disabled
- with 180 levers.
information call 08457 484950 bays but you have to pay
or visit www.nationalrail.co.uk. and please be aware that
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk | 5
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Glamping
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personal
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train • Pilates & yoga studio
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Located
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outside the beautiful
he b • Fitness suite
market town
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wsbu within • Hot springs pool & giant beach
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ow of the W Welsh borders
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v towards For more information:
the Wrekin and
an the South
nd th www.love2stay.co.uk
Shropshirere Hills.
ire Hi
Hills Tel: 01743 583 124
DIS CO V E R
There are more than 600 listed buildings within the river
loop with architecture that’s steeped in history. Traces
of medieval life can be found throughout Shrewsbury’s
maze of narrow streets, each with an unusual name and
a story to tell. Charles Darwin, our famous son, would
still recognise many of his favourite haunts today.
MUSEUMS AND TOURS 2013 and now enjoys a second
One of the best places to incarnation where you can
start your journey is the sample ‘life on the inside’ with
Shrewsbury Museum and Art Jailhouse Tours.
Gallery in The Square. It is Another unique way to
based in the old Music Hall and experience Shrewsbury is
includes the singular, medieval on-board the Sabrina Boat -01
Vaughan’s Mansion. The as she gently sails around the
Museum tells the stories that river loop with live commentary. -02
make Shropshire unique
through its’ amazing galleries: THE CASTLE AND ABBEY
Roman Gallery, Shropshire Roger de Montgomery built
Gallery, Medieval, Tudor and both the Castle and the
Stuart Galleries and the Special Abbey, just after the Norman
Exhibition Gallery. Conquest of 1066. The stone
A recent addition to the town castle you see today was
is the Soden Collection. The rebuilt around one hundred
gallery is at 80 Wyle Cop years later but you can still see
and houses an ever-changing the mound where the original
selection of contemporary art once stood.
and sculptures. Shrewsbury Abbey was also 01 Laura’s Tower
A must-see is the converted the setting of another famous
monk, Ellis Peters’ eponymous 02 The Old Market Hall, The Square
prison, known locally as The
Dana. Built in 1793, it closed in but fictional detective, Brother
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk | 7
-01
Cadfael. You can follow a poet, was local to the area. He masterpiece with interesting
special Cadfael trail around was killed in action just one stained-glass windows by
the Abbey. week before the signing of the Margaret Rope and beautiful
Armistice Treaty. His mother architecture to admire.
POETRY AND CHURCHES was notified of his death as
The original St Chad’s was
Wilfred Owen, the Great War the local church bells were founded in the 9th Century
rung to celebrate the end but the church you see today,
-02 of the war and his memorial with the largest circular
stands in the grounds of knave in the country, was
Shrewsbury Abbey. built in 1792. In the graveyard
In A Shropshire Lad, the poet to the back of the church
A.E. Housman enthusiastically is Ebenezer Scrooge’s
portrays the ‘steepled crest’ tombstone - a left over prop
of the Shrewsbury skyline. from A Christmas Carol,
Those steeples belong to which was filmed in 1983, with
the beautiful churches of many proud Salopians playing
St Mary’s, St Chad’s, St Julian’s supporting roles.
and St Alkmund’s. At the top of Butcher Row, set
St Mary’s lays claim to a in its own secluded square,
500-year-old medieval spire, is St Alkmund’s, where it is
one of the tallest in England. possible to see a copy of
Reni’s Assumption of the
However, St Mary’s prized
Virgin Mary in the East window
treasure is the world-famous
and lastly St Julian’s with its
14th-century Jesse stained
12th-century tower and its
glass window.
East Window in which is a
Shrewsbury Cathedral, reproduction of the famous
located on Town Walls, painting, The Transfiguration
opened in 1856 and is a Gothic by Raphael.
8 | ori g i n a l shrewsb u ry.co.u k
DARWIN - OUR FAMOUS SON
Charles Darwin was born at Mount House in Shrewsbury on
12th February 1809 and spent the first 27 years of his life
in the town. The Darwin Town Trail takes you to significant
places around Shrewsbury that influenced the young Darwin.
www.discoverdarwin.co.uk
THE DRAPERS mind of Charles Darwin. He chapel. In fact, it’s the Coleham
The Drapers were the most was educated at Shrewsbury Pumping Station, once the
powerful guild in medieval School, describing it as heart of Shrewsbury’s sewer
Shrewsbury. As their wealth having “too much Classics system with the buildings,
grew they built many of the for his liking”, but preferred boiler and two steam engines
timbered mansions you see to fish for newts in the River all listed by English Heritage. It
today, including Rowley’s Severn, collecting insects was opened in 1901 and today
House and the Old Market and inspecting under rocks in it’s a museum with open days
Hall - possibly the only The Dingle. Darwin went on throughout the year.
cinema in the country with to inspire the world with his
a Tudor beamed ceiling and thinking on evolution. 01 Sabrina Boat
a medieval abacus on its
THE CHAPEL THAT ISN’T 02 St Mary’s church
outside walls.
A CHAPEL 03 View from Old St Chad’s church
THE MEDIEVAL STREETS In Longden Coleham, there
The narrow alleyways that is what looks like a Victorian
interweave the town centre
date from the 14th Century
and are known locally as
‘shuts’. Other street names
reveal their past history: Gullet
Passage, Carnarvon Lane and
no prizes for guessing what
used to go on in Grope Lane!
THE FIRST SKYSCRAPER
IN THE WORLD
Built in 1797, the Ditherington
Flax Mill is thought to be
the world’s oldest surviving
metal-framed building and
is currently undergoing
major renovations. There are
open days and tours and an
exciting project to restore
this historic site and secure
its future.
THE BEGINNINGS OF ON
THE ORIGIN OF SPECIES
In the 1800s Shrewsbury’s
inspiring surroundings roused
-03
the exceptionally inquisitive
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk | 9
#LOCALLYSOURCED #GLOBALLYINSPIRED SEASONAL FOOD AND DRINK CSONS is a friendly cafe- restaurant in the heart of town serving breakfast, coffee, lunch, tea, cakes and dinner. Our food is different; we use the best locally sourced produce and treat it with the respect it deserves by creating simple, unpretentious, globally inspired and exciting dishes that shout about the ingredients, reflect the seasons and are full of flavour. Come and check us out, we’re pretty confident you’ll like what you find. We’d also like to meet you! BREAKFAST-LUNCH-DINNER COFFEE-TEA-CAKES 8 Milk Street, Shrewsbury SY1 1SZ Tel: 01743 272709 www.csons-shrewsbury.co.uk 10 | ori g i n a l shrewsb u ry.co.u k
E AT
EAT
Restaurants in rooms that predate the Wars of the Roses alongside
independent and award-winning venues mean whatever you’re into,
you won’t be short of something to satisfy your appetite.
TASTES OF THE WORLD conspire to make it a venue
We have cuisine from many
cultures: La Lanterna, Osteria
with a difference.
CSONS
In the town centre is Darwin’s
da Paolo, Carluccio’s, Zizzi, Kitchen with its covered What‘s the vibe?
ASK, Côte Brasserie and courtyard, The Hayward Locally sourced produce
La Dolce Vita form part of Restaurant at The Lion Hotel and unpretentious,
a strong Italian contingent. exciting dishes that are
and the award-winning Henry
Casa Naranja and AleOli offer full of seasonal flavour.
Tudor House on Wyle Cop
tempting, authentic Spanish
and the restaurant at The Lion
menus. However, you can
& Pheasant Townhouse Hotel. What we liked:
head east to savour the spices The food is tempting to
These are some of our most
of Thailand and India, or simply the eye and the palate
historic hotels and combine
walk across the English bridge with a welcoming, easy
history and elegance with
and try MoMo’s Noodle Bar
fabulous dining. atmosphere to enjoy it in.
in Abbey Foregate, fly south
to the Pacific with the House SPOT OF LUNCH When?
of the Rising Sun on Butcher Breakfast through to
In the indoor Market
Row or keep it British with fish dinner plus cakes all day!
Hall, diners can enjoy an
and chips at The Drayton.
international menu including
Spanish tapas, continental-
A MEAL TO REMEMBER
style seafood, Chinese
As well as being one of our
dumplings, Indian and Thai
finest restaurants, Draper’s
street food, vegan dishes and
Hall is also one of our most
delicious cakes.
historic buildings. Thick oak-
panelled walls, flagstone CSONS is a cafe-restaurant 8 Milk Street,
floors and beamed ceilings all in the heart of Shrewsbury 01743 272709
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk | 11Unique historic
independent
hotel nestled
in the heart
of medieval
Shrewsbury.
Locally sourced
seasonal produce
with great real
ales & some
wonderful wine.
01743 362507
info@goldencrosshotel.co.uk
www.goldencrosshotel.co.uk
12 The Golden Cross Hotel, 14 Princess Street, Shrewsbury,|Shropshire SY1
ori g i n a l shrewsb 1LP k
u ry.co.u-01 -02
01 CSons
02 Loch Fyne
03 House of the Rising Sun -03
serving breakfast, coffee, exposed brick and book- Don’t forget that all the
lunch, tea, cakes and dinner. lined riverside gastropub independent cafés of the
Their menu changes on an offering stylish, eclectic, town not only serve wonderful
almost daily basis in response fresh food, cask ales and coffee but you can grab a
to what is available locally and wine. Also on Victoria Quay light bite in them. Some also
is at its best. They serve simple, are the Riverbank and offer evening events so check
unpretentious dishes that Hickory’s - both offering great their websites.
shout about the ingredients, dining experiences.
reflect the seasons and are full VEGAN AND VEGETARIAN
of flavour. As the oldest public house in
Shrewsbury, the Golden Cross Vegetarians and vegans can
Number Four on Butcher Row Hotel, Princess Street, has eat well in most of the town’s
offers everything from cakes an enviably long reputation restaurants and cafés. A
and coffee to brunch, tapas for outstanding hospitality couple of gems include The
and a delicious lunch menu. - coming up to 700 years! Bird’s Nest in the Market Hall,
It opens in the evenings on The Good Life on Barracks
They serve real food with
Fridays and Saturdays, too. Passage, Itadakizen on Fish
big flavours, simply prepared
In Victoria Quay you’ll find using the finest local and Street plus The Greenhouse
The Armoury - an imposing, seasonal produce. and Plant Kind on Milk Street.
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk | 13ENID
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SHREWSBURY, SHROPSHIRE,
W - HENCOTE.COM
VINEYARD TOURS
WINE TASTINGS
WINE BAR & BALCONY
HENCOTE, CROSS HILL,
P - 01743 298 444
MORE THAN JUST A VIEW
SY4 3AA
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NOITADOMMOCCA EVISULCXE
MORE THAN JUST A VIEW
twist, independent coffee houses and more pubs per square metre
than anywhere else in the world mean you will not go thirsty!
ENID EREHPSOMTA GNIXALER
CAFÉ CULTURE - Inside St Mary’s Church,
house coffee
ENIW
SHREWSBURY STYLE the national-award-winning
STNEVE ETAVIRP
Shrewsbury certainly has Battlefield 1403 Farm Shop
its pick of fabulous cafes has a small café in a stunning What‘s the vibe?
and baristas with a passion setting. In the Market Hall, the Coffee lovers and tea-goers
for their art. Alongside the award-winning Bird’s Nest is
equally welcome in a friendly,
big international chains are considered one of the ‘coolest’
up-cycled atmosphere.
quirky one-off independent places in town. Shrewsbury
cafés. Ginger & Co. Coffee in Cathedral is home to Orchard What we liked:
The Square offers amazing Cafe and if you’re looking for The cakes are a local legend
coffee and delicious cakes in quirky then head to Paws and the brunch menu
XALE
an original setting and across Cafe or The Shed Cafe. is delicious. There’ll be
in Frankwell is The Pour If tea is your tipple you won’t something for you.
House serving fresh coffee,
go far wrong with a visit to
impressive milkshakes and
The Gallery Tearooms, off When?
delicious cocktails if you’re 9am - 4pm
The Square, or Camellias
ready for something stronger!
Tea Rooms towards the
Stop. café is situated inside end of Butcher Row in
the Museum and Art Gallery St Alkmund’s Place.
building and also next to
SHREWSBURY, SHROPSHIRE,
A REAL ALE TRAIL
SRUOT DRAYENIV
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Greyfriars Bridge. Across
HENCOTE, CROSS HILL,
444 892 34710 - P
the bridge is HOUSE coffee, Locally, the Salopian Brewery
serving light bites, cakes and has won awards for its real ale,
amazing coffee - an ideal with its famous ‘Shropshire
SY4 3AA
place to grab a takeaway Gold’ - something of a local
drink before enjoying a stroll legend and served in many 120 Longden Coleham
around the Quarry Park. of the pubs and bars in town.
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk | 15THREE FISHES
• Beautiful black and white grade 2
listed half timbered pub in one of the
oldest parts of town.
• Friendly staff and clientele.
• Award winning traditional ales,
lagers, fine wines and spirits.
• Homemade pub Fayre with hearty
portion sizes.
• Food served lunchtime and evening.
• Dogs and Children welcome
01743 344793
Opening & serving hours on Facebook page
Princess Street, Shrewsbury
(Back of the Square)
gingerandcocoffee @ginger_and_co_coffee
16 | ori g i n a l shrewsb u ry.co.u kThe Battlefield Brewery welcoming vibe that is worth
-01
opened in 2016 and you’ll find experiencing.
their ales across the town or
Ten & Six is a recent addition
alternatively you could try
to the town and Shrewsbury’s
one of their fully guided tours.
premier champagne bar. It
If you like to sample local is located in Mardol in one of
beers and ciders, we more our most iconic buildings.
than 60 pubs where you
can take a sip and enjoy the Another don’t-miss venue
CAMRA trail. The King’s Head is the Lion and Pheasant
on Mardol, with its medieval Townhouse. They offer a
wall paintings, the Nag’s fabulous afternoon tea plus
Head on Wyle Cop, with a wide selection of local ales,
the remains of a medieval wines, cocktails and gins.
mansion in its beer garden The bar’s oak floors and
and the Three Fishes on Fish quirky furniture, create the
Street are three of the more perfect atmosphere.
unusual hostelries. Just across the English Bridge,
nestled alongside The Abbey,
A BIT OF ALL SORTS The Peach Tree is the perfect
If you’re looking for cocktails destination for everything -02
Havana Republic, The Pour from morning coffee & cake
House, The Libertine, Blind to cocktails & dancing.
Tiger, The Loopy Shrew and
The ALB play host to some Finally, don’t forget to visit
of the best mixologists in The Boathouse. With a beer
the business. garden alongside the river -02
and overlooking the Quarry
The House of Grain, at the
Park it’s the perfect place to
bottom of Wyle Cop, stock
while away a few hours.
an ever-changing range of
crafts ales, an impressive Whatever you’re looking for,
list of gins and have a funky, Shrewsbury will have it.
01 The Bird’s Nest
02 The Lion and Pheasant
-03
03 The Armoury
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk | 17GO
EXPLORE
originalshrewsbury.co.uk
18 | ori g i n a l shrewsb u ry.co.u kS HO P
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Shrewsbury is one of the few places in the UK
where independent shops outnumber the big
chains. There are endless boutiques and quirky
independents, all tucked away in ‘shuts and
passages’ (those crooked medieval alleyways
that criss-cross the town centre).
THE UNCONVENTIONAL where you can pick up a map
Throughout the town there or a postcard, hire a bike or
are one-off boutiques and book a Sabrina Boat ticket.
quirky independents to entice This is also the place for ‘All
the shopper. Things Darwin’. Learn about
his history or pick up a copy of
Don’t miss the longest row of
On the Origin of Species.
uninterrupted independent
shops in Britain on the Meander the Market Hall, home
medieval Wyle Cop. to some 70 independent,
quirky and creative businesses
The Parade, a Grade II listed
- from swish home and gift
building, with its grand neo-
boutiques to art and craft
classical exterior and quaint
studios, vintage and a cosy
Victorian interior, has 30
pre-loved bookshop.
independent shops from
tailors and cobblers to artists MODERN NAMES
and jewellers. These places are
The Pride Hill Centre, the
made for lingering, browsing
Darwin Centre and the
and finding that gem that no
Riverside contain a mix of the
one else has.
familiar and the fashionable.
On Roushill Bank you’ll find the The Pride Hill and Darwin Pride Hill
Sabrina Boat Booking Office Centres are located in the only
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk | 19pedestrianised part of the as Shropshire’s answer plethora of independant
town centre: Pride Hill. to Camden Market. The shops from Illuminate
Market Hall is home to local bookshop and Teestar shoes
FAMILY SECRETS artisan producers, vintage to Wrekin Whiskies (selling
Many of Shrewsbury’s most sellers and a host of quality gin too!) and Appleyards Deli,
famous shops have been in handcraft and gift stalls who a stalwart of the town with
the same hands, on the same stand alongside butchers some of the best gourmet
site, for generations. The and traditional stalls selling foods from around the UK
great-great-Uncle of Tanners fresh produce. The market and the Continent. There’s so
Wines current owner started also has innovative street much on offer on Wyle Cop
the business and even today, food cafés which are well it’s a must-visit part of the
their shop on Wyle Cop looks worth a visit. It opens every town.
much the same as it did in Tuesday, Wednesday,
1842. The cellars doubled as Friday and Saturday with a HEALTH AND BEAUTY
Fezziwig’s warehouse in the selection of stalls open on Treat yourself to a pamper
film A Christmas Carol. a Thursday. at one of our independent
salons. Royston Blythe is
On the first Friday of the
A LOCAL DELICACY located on Dogpole and
month a farmers’ market
Shrewsbury is blessed with offers a treat for your hair
in The Square pops up,
wonderful markets selling a in a sumptuous setting! The
with around 30 producers
variety of fresh produce. Its Parlour on Hills Lane offers
offering fresh local meats,
main market, housed within hair and beauty treatments
cheeses, fruit and vegetables
the Market Hall at the foot in a fabulous wonky-floored
from all over Shropshire.
of the town’s iconic clock building and at Tootsies
tower, is today described On Wyle Cop you’ll find a on Dogpole you can have
FASHION, FOOTWEAR, FUN & GAMES
SHOP THE LATEST TRENDS AND LOTS MORE IN THE HEART OF SHREWSBURY
For further details visit Shrewsbury-Shopping.co.uk
Follow us on DARWIN & PRIDE HILL
20 | ori g i n a l shrewsb u ry.co.u ka manicure and watch the
-01 -02
world go by. You can pick up
health and beauty products in
independent businesses and
national names.
FAIR TRADE
Shrewsbury is an official
Fairtrade Town. You’ll find
plenty of Fairtrade products
in our shops, cafés and
restaurants, as well as a shop on
St. John’s Hill. The Market
Hall has a dedicated
Fairtrade stall and its
Snapdragon Wholefoods also
specialises in organic and
Fairtrade products.
01 Waterstones, High Street
02 C
hristmas market,
The Square
03 Shrewsbury Market Hall
04 Tanners Wines, Wyle Cop
-03 05 Butcher Row
-04 -05
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk | 2122 | ori g i n a l shrewsb u ry.co.u k
THE LONGEST RUN OF INDEPENDENT TRADERS IN THE COUNTRY
7 Wyle Cop Shrewsbury SY1 1UT Telephone: 01743 272730
VAT number GB 986 4339 68
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you unique.’ Hand picked, high
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Quality shoes for little feet
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loungewear all individually fitted for 68 Wyle Cop, Shrewsbury SY1 1UX
Independent family shippers of
‘Every - Body’ www.itsfeet1st.co.uk
estate wines. Established 1842.
01743 272730
Shrewsbury’s Independent Cookshop
A haven for chefs and keen cooks
Located at the top of Wyle Cop, in the Trek Shrewsbury lives its values of
Great gift ideas
market town of Shrewsbury, you will Love it or we’ll take it back, Low Price
Emma Bridgewater stockists find Marianne Exclusive Fashions. A
Guarantee, 24-hour service for all
Open 7 days a week family owned and managed business
with an independent spirit, Marianne makes and models.
T: 01743 368199
fashions have been trading since 1985.
E & J Jewellers For something a
little different.
Incorporating Jewellery Workshop Vintage inspired
Three award winning independent quirky gifts for
Some alterations & repairs can be shops with beautifully selected clothing, your home and
done same day shoes, jewellery and gifts for women garden.
with individual style.
01743 365957
Bespoke Jewellers
Sleep well in 2020 with Shrewsbury’s Jewellery made to order
new bed specialists. Manufacturers Engagement & Wedding Ring Specialist
Purveyors of fine Single Malt Scotch
of bespoke beds and mattresses, Whiskies as well as stockists of select
01743 242420
handmade in Yorkshire since 1978. www.snootyfoxjewellery.co.uk Artisan Gins & other tipples.
Hand Made
Treasures
discovered from
ART GALLERY around the world.
Independent Art Gallery Specialising
‘ILLUMINATE’ a friendly Christian in Modern Art & Sculpture. Feel free
An eclectic home
bookshop specialising in cards, to come in and browse… and life style store.
gifts and books, new and second 80 Wyle Cop Tel 01743 358229
hand for all church occasions! www.thesodencollection.com
01743 34 14 00 www.wyleblueworld.co.uk
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk | 23Oxon Mount House
Park & Ride Darwin’s Birthplace
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25
AD
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk |
ES
RE
A
The Old Brewery
RD
Meole Brace
T
ET
LAN
erside Holy
RE
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lk Trinity Shrewsbury Town F.C.
ET
P E N G ROV E
E
S
N D ROA D
GSL AChildren 15 Years
& Under FREE (when
accompanied by a
paying adult)
All Activities in
So much more than Children’s Area
FREE
a Flower Show!
Friday 14th & Saturday 15th August 2020
Come and join us for our 133rd show! Enjoy
stunning colourful floral arrangements, thrills
in the main arena, entertaining cookery
demonstrations, interesting and unique shopping
opportunities; all topped off nicely with an
amazing fireworks and laser display each day…
there really is something for everyone.
Call 01743 234058 or visit
Shropshire Horticultural Society
Charity Number: 501564
www.shrewsburyflowershow.org.uk 133rd Show
2020 Make memories to treasure for a lifetime
with our 2020 Shropshire Festivals
EVENTS
#makin
gmemo
ries
5th & 6thQUSe pt ‘20
ARRY PARK
‘20
10th & 11th Apr
SHREWSBURY tables,
1-14 year olds, Infla
Epic Family Fun for s & More!
NTRE
TELFORD INT’L CE year olds, Inflatables, Games, Sport, Craft
for 1-14
Indoor Familyt,Fun s & More!
Games, Spor Craft
2nd & 3rdQUOARct ‘20
RY PARK
& 28th Jun ‘20
SHREWSBURY , Cocktails, Silent Disco,
27th ARRY PARK Comedy, Live
, Gin Den t Food
150+ Real AlesMus ic & Stree
SHREWSBURY QUExhibitors, Demo’s,
k & Craft Street Food
200+ Food, Drin Music &
Chef School & Live
Buy your tickets in advance and SAVE MONEY!
SHROPSHIREFESTIVALS.CO.UK
26 | ori g i n a l shrewsb u ry.co.u kEV ENTS
Fireworks, air shows and regattas. Food
checking before travelling.
are correct at time of going to print. We advise
Please note that dates are subject to change. and
festivals, river festivals, music festivals,
science festivals and a festival for the kids!
DARWIN SHREWSBURY Shropshire Live
Feb 7 - 16 Aug 2
originalshrewsbury.co.uk/ www.westmidshowground.com
darwin-shrewsbury-festival
Flower Show
Big Busk Aug 14 - 15
Apr shrewsburyflowershow.org.uk
thebigbusk.co.uk
Shrewsbury Folk Festival
Cartoon Festival Aug 28 - 31
Apr 25 - 25 shrewsburyfolkfestival.co.uk
shrewsburycartoonfestival.com
Steam Rally
Shrewsbury Frestival Aug 30 -31
May 16 shrewsburysteamrally.co.uk
www.westmidshowground.com
Shropshire Kids Festival
Shropshire Tasty Trail Sept 5 - 6
May 17 shropshirekidsfest.co.uk
shropshirefestivals.co.uk
Coracle Race
Shropshire County Sept 11
Agricultural Show coracleworldchampionship.co.uk
May 23 Oktoberfest
shropshirecountyshow.com Oct 2 - 3
River Festival shropshireoktoberfest.co.uk
Jun 7 West Mid Bonfire and
shrewsburyriverfestival.com
Fireworks Extravaganza
Shrewsbury Carnival Nov 7
Jun 20 www.westmidshowground.com
shrewsburycarnival.co.uk
For more events &
Food Festival
Jun 27 - 28 information about visiting
shrewsburyfoodfestival.co.uk Shrewsbury contact:
Visitor Information Centre
Let’s Rock T: 01743 258888
Jul 11 W: originalshrewsbury.co.uk
letsrockshrewsbury.com
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk | 27SHREWSBURY
CATHEDRAL
Magnificent Gothic Cathedral
in the heart of the town of
Shrewsbury. Fascinating stained
glass, designed by Margaret
Rope and steeped in history.
Open 7 days a week. 1-4pm
Weekdays. We advise to call
before you visit. Mass held daily
- please see website for timings.
Town Walls | SY1 1TE
01743 290000
www.shrewsburycathedral.org
Open daily. Selection of locally-soured, home-made
produce & beverages. Tranquil environment within the
grounds of the Cathedral. Available to hire for events &
lunches. Vegan-friendly. Dogs welcome.
01743 242118 | www.orchardshrew.co.uk
TAKE A TRIP THROUGH HISTORY
WHERE WILL YOU GO TODAY?
www.llangollen-railway.co.uk
28 | ori g i n a l shrewsb u ry.co.u kEXPLOR E
The River Severn forms an almost perfect loop around the town with the
Castle built at its only opening, forming a moat, designed and built by nature.
You can walk the loop or, alternatively, take it all in on board the Sabrina Boat.
THE RIVER in the 18th Century but there
Enjoy the River Severn
aboard the aptly named
have been bridges on site
since Norman times. The
Sabrina Boat
Sabrina Boat, Shrewsbury’s English Bridge is to the east What‘s this?
only passenger boat. You of the town and the Welsh Shrewsbury’s only river cruise.
can join one of the six daily bridge to the west. The eagle-
trips which run on the hour eyed will also notice that the What we liked:
from 11am through to 4pm English Bridge has seven The beautiful views, fun and
arches and the Welsh has five informative commentary,
with full refreshments and live
- an arch for each letter in their friendly staff and wide variety
commentary on board.
name. Among some of our of drinks delivered to our table!
The towpath along the bank
other bridges are The Porthill When?
passes through the heart
Bridge which connects 6 trips a day 11am – 4pm on
of the town. When you’re
Porthill with the Quarry the hour, 7 days a week from
ready for a rest, you can call
Park and the town centre. 1st March to 31st October.
in at one of the many pubs/
The 10ft wide suspension
inns that overlook the river
bridge also experiences
for refreshments or pack a
significant vibration, even
picnic and choose your spot -
when only a few people are
there’s plenty of space!
crossing it, which is quite
an experience! Kingsland
THE BRIDGES Bridge was constructed
The English Bridge and Welsh by the Cleveland Bridge &
Bridge sit on opposite sides Engineering Company, who
of the town and are the main also built the Victoria Falls Victoria Quay,
thoroughfares into the town Bridge. It is known locally Next to the Welsh Bridge
centre. They were both built as the Penny Bridge. Built
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk | 29in 1880, Greyfriar’s Bridge WHAT DO YOU KNOW?
replaced a ferry boat crossing The Public Library is housed
between St Julian’s Friars in a Grade 1 listed building
and Coleham, relieving some situated on Castle Gates.
of the congestion on the Until 1882 it was the main
narrow footpaths of the building for Shrewsbury
English Bridge. School, where Charles
Darwin was a pupil. Can you
TOWN WALLS find schoolboy graffiti from
The Town Walls that once that time?
protected the citizens
from hostile neighbours GHOST TOURS
-01
can still be seen today as As a medieval market town,
can the one remaining Shrewsbury is reputed to
14th-century watchtower. be one of the most haunted
01 Sabrina Boat Town Walls Tower formed towns in the UK. With narrow
02 Market Hall clock tower a key part of the defensive passages looming over you in
03 C
harles Darwin statue, walls that once surrounded the dark, a spooky boat tour
Shrewsbury Library the town and is now the last (October only), a ghastly
surviving example of those prison and haunted buildings,
04 Dingle Gardens
defences. On just six days don’t miss an eerie ghost tour.
05 The Square at Christmas a year the National Trust, Walking tours usually take
06 Shrewsbury Museum & who care for the property, place every Thursday night in
Art Gallery run open days for visitors to October and November with
explore this fascinating piece extra dates around Halloween
of the town’s history. itself. Booking is essential.
Further along Town Walls Call the Visitor Information
you will find the impressive Centre on 01743 258888 for
Shrewsbury Cathedral with full details.
its Pugin-designed stained- There are also tours of the
glass windows. old Shrewsbury Prison at
night - the world’s only
SHREWSBURY’S BURNING opportunity to experience a
On many of the older prison officer’s life at night.
buildings in the town centre This event gives you a real
you will see a variety of metal insight into the nightlife of a
plaques on the walls. Known 200-year-old prison.
as ‘Fire Insurance Plaques’,
they are the emblems of local TUESDAY EVENING CRUISE
insurance companies that Jump on board Sabrina Boat
acted as a guide to the fire and enjoy a glass of wine or
companies. Each fire brigade prosecco every Tuesday
was employed directly by an evening at 7pm for a gentle
insurance company and would 45-minute cruise down the
only attend buildings under River Severn. Why not include
the wing of their insurance a meal at a local restaurant
provider. If you had insurance with their meal & cruise
with another company, you packages available to be pre-
needed to negotiate with booked from their website,
-02
whoever turned up first! phone or booking office.
30 | ori g i n a l shrewsb u ry.co.u kwe’re dog-friendly
Dogs are made welcome in Shrewsbury including
in many of our pubs, cafes, restaurants, shops and
hotels. We also have the 29-acre Quarry Park which
is ideal to burn off all of that energy. Remember
dogs are welcome on board
any of our local buses.
-03
-04
-05 -06
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk | 31Boat Trips
around the River Severn loop
• Six trips on the hour | 11am - 4pm
• Every day March - October
• 45 minute trip SHOPPING CENTRE
SHOPPING
SHOPPING CENTRE
CENTRE
Discounts for St Mary’sSHOPPING
Place,
Place, CENTRE
Shrewsbury
Shrewsbury
SHOPPING SY11DL
SY1
CENTRE 1DL
Live commentary,
St Mary’s Place, Shrewsbury SY1 1DL
concessions,
refreshments & families & children St Mary’s
St Mary’sPlace, Shrewsbury
Place, Shrewsbury SY1SY1
1DL 1DL
table service
A uniq
Pre-book or buy way to ue
Sh see
tickets on board rewsb
ury
Boat Address www.paradeshops.co.uk
www.paradeshops.co.uk
www.paradeshops.co.uk
Welsh Bridge, www.paradeshops.co.uk
Shrewsbury. SY1 1HH
01743 369 741
www.paradeshops.co.uk
www.sabrinaboat.co.uk
32 | ori g i n a l shrewsb u ry.co.u kDO
DO
Shrewsbury is the town with something for everyone - whether it’s
a guided tour, a glass of wine in the Old Market Hall, a world-famous
comedian or a nationally renowned hit play at Theatre Severn.
BATTLES, FALCONS AND Jason Manford described it Balloons can take you over
FINE FOOD as “easily one of the top five the town. From up above
Battlefield Falconry Centre, theatres in the country” and you can see the medieval
located near the site of the we don’t think he was joking! street plan, the loop of the
Battle of Shrewsbury, is River Severn, Shrewsbury
Originally built in 1596, the
where you can book a special Castle and Shrewsbury
Old Market Hall was once
Bird of Prey Experience Abbey. You’ll then head
a reflection of the town’s
and spend time handling across the countryside where
prosperity. Converted as late
the enigmatic birds under scenicviews of the Wrekin
as the 1870s into offices and a
the guidance of one of their and the beautiful South
courthouse, it was re-opened
handlers. Shropshire Hills await you.
in 2004 as a cinema with a
It shares the site with the unique atmosphere and is the DISCOVERING DARWIN
Battlefield 1403 Visitor Centre perfect place to enjoy a glass
Shropshire Wildlife Trust own
hosting one of the best of wine while watching a film.
the gardens that belonged
butcheries in the UK, a well- Built in 1863 as a Temperance to Charles Darwin’s family.
stocked deli counter, a shop Hall with a rich and varied You can book an hour to
-01
full of specialty local goodies past and an equally exciting walk along the ‘thinking path’
and a museum celebrating future is The Wightman where the ideas for his Theory
the Battle of Shrewsbury. Theatre. Located off The of Evolution germinated.
Square it hosts music gigs, art The Sabrina Boat also offers
THEATRE AND CINEMA exhibitions and theatre events a Charles Darwin Cruise
Boasting a stunning riverside as well as the occasional pop- with commentary about
location, Theatre Severn up market or fair. Darwin’s life in Shrewsbury,
was opened in 2009. as well as tea/coffee and
Many famous names have FLY AWAY biscuits. Groups should be
spounded the boards and all Usually launching from the pre-booked. You can also
ages are welcome. Comedian north of Shrewsbury, Virgin tread in Darwin’s footsteps
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk | 33by following the Darwin
Town Trail, more information
on which can be found at
www.discoverdarwin.co.uk.
There’s also the DARWIN
SHREWSBURY Festival from
8th-24th February, when
more the 30 events will
celebrate our intrinsic links
to Darwin with a festival
encouraging the curiosity
and independent thinking
evident in the work of Darwin.
STUCK BETWEEN A ROCK
AND A HARD PLACE
The Quarry Park, a former
-01
stone quarry but now a
picturesque park, is ideal for
a picnic. Its crowning jewel is
the beautiful sunken garden,
landscaped with alpine
borders, colourful bedding
plants and water features
- The Dingle – a floral
masterpiece redesigned by
world renowned gardener,
Percy Thrower.
The Quarry Park’s iconic
landmarks include The
Bandstand, built in 1879;
the Harley Stone, said to be
the anchor stone of the last
surviving allotment where
livestock was tethered on
a leash of no more than 16
yards; and Shrewsbury’s
main civic war memorial
near the St Chad’s entrance.
There is also the impressive
statue of the heroic Hercules
standing proudly on the -02
riverbank. Even he can get
very wet when the river rises! innocent girl who was Home have been teaching
Sabrina, the statue of the drowned in the river by her Sewing & Craft Classes for
Goddess of the Severn, father’s first wife after he 10 years and have launched
can be found in The Dingle. was unfaithful. a brand new Workshop
‘Severn’ and ‘Sabrina’ are on Market Street. Located
English and Roman versions
SEWING AND CRAFT within Abakhan’s new store
of the same word. According WORKSHOPS beside Shrewsbury Market
to the myth, she was an Abakhan Fabrics, Hobby & at the foot of Pride Hill. Pop
34 | ori g i n a l shrewsb u ry.co.u kin to see what’s on and pick vision of creating a living
The Club Hencote
up a Sewing & Class Brochure landscape and living seas. The What is it?
in-store or book online at trust helps to preserve the Exclusive wine members
www.abakhan.co.uk. local environment and cares club featuring three
for 38 local nature reserves.
FAMILY FUN packages; Lifestyle,
Shrewsbury is a town with
The purpose-built climbing Executive & Corporate.
centre at Climbing The Walls
something for everyone, and What’s included?
caters for all ages and abilities.
that makes it the perfect Private events for wine club
The centre also includes
destination for families.
a café, shower facilities, members and VIP invites
Whatever you’re looking for,
there’s plenty of opportunity
function rooms and classes. to wine launches as well as
for fun whatever you age. Taking place in the Quarry discounted rates in The View
Park, Kids Fest offers the Restaurant, Bar & Balcony
Shrewsbury Museum & and wine shop.
sort of fun which keeps
Art Gallery’s learning and
you laughing and smiling
education programme offers
for weeks and months
something for all ages. Look
afterwards. There is just about
out for the Heyday Art
everything any kid aged 0-14
workshops – inspiring art
could possibly want. Don’t
events for children aged from
forget the Children’s Book
6 months to 10 years.
Festival too - a jam-packed
In the novel setting of annual event.
Shrewsbury’s old jail, you will
find a children’s play centre Cross Hill, SY4 3AA
with plenty to keep kids
occupied. For the adults there
is a great range of hot drinks,
food & plenty of seating.
Button and Bear Bookshop is
the first Children’s Bookshop
in Shropshire, with books
suitable from birth right up
to the end of primary school,
and is based on Castle
Street. It’s just along from
Shrewsbury Castle which is -03
worth a look for the history
and architecture plus a
picnic in the castle grounds
is a perfect way to spend
your lunchtime!
Splat n Splodge is the town’s
one and only pottery painting
studio. Located in the Parade
Shopping Centre, it can seat
32 people and stocks over 100 01 Quarry Park
different pieces of pottery.
02 Church Street
Connecting children with 03 Sabrina Boat
nature is essential to
Shropshire Wildlife Trust’s -04 04 Shrewsbury Kids Fest
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk | 35DO
ENJ OY
There’s plenty of live music and a variety of festivals on offer for you to
enjoy. There are formal venues like Theatre Severn, informal bar venues
such as The Loopy Shrew, Henry Tudor House or Albert’s Shed and larger
nightclub venues such as The Buttermarket and Havana Republic.
The events and festival Even though Shrewsbury’s has attracted visitors from
scene provides vibrant Summer Season first started all over the world. Whilst the
entertainment all year round. in the 1700s, our modern flowers are the undisputed
Shrewsbury hosts a wide version now brings together stars of the show, they’re
range of events throughout a celebration of theatre with not the only draw. There’s
live music ranging from opera music from military bands
the year, including the
to jazz together with plenty and choirs, premier show
Shrewsbury Food Festival,
of family activities and fun jumping, a dedicated
Oktoberfest, Shrewsbury children’s area, buzzing trade
workshops.
Flower Show, Shrewsbury marquees including a food
Folk Festival Children’s Book FLOWERS WITH FIREWORKS hall, together with a celebrity
Fest and the International Since 1857, the celebrated guest or two – so you don’t
Cartoon Festival. Shrewsbury Flower Show have to have green fingers
-01 -02
36 | ori g i n a l shrewsb u ry.co.u kto enjoy the event. In the GET SKETCHED Shropshire Oktoberfest is
evening the attention moves In April, cartoonists from all the newest festival on the
to the arena, where there over the world come for the block with over 150 real
is a concert both nights, Shrewsbury International ales, live music, comedy and
followed by the massed Cartoon Festival – the only street food, served alongside
band finale and finally the one of its kind in the UK. a farmers’ market, gin den,
show closes with a stunning They fill The Square with rum shack and prosecco
Firework displays. giant cartoons and you parlour. Held in October in
Shrewsbury Flower Show can often get your own
the Quarry Park, it’s sure
is one of the country’s caricature done for free
to become a regular on the
premier events, attracting as long as you’ve got a
festival calendar.
top exhibitors from all reasonably thick skin!
over the country, fantastic KIDS FESTIVAL
A RURAL COUNTY
floral displays, horticultural Kids just wanna have fun
The Shropshire County Show
competitions, high quality - and we serve it up right
also in May is a celebration
trade stands and great food across a fabulous weekend.
of the rural community and
is to be expected. Music fills
the role it plays in our daily We’ve got the the foamiest
the air as choirs and bands
lives. With the finest animals foam parties, a mega sports
perform throughout the day
being displayed alongside zone, massive inflatables, a
on the bandstand, whilst
entertaining shows and have-a-go music tent, zorb
the arena offers a variety of
events this has been a well- balls, go karts, a circus tent,
entertainment to suit every
established event of over craft activities and just about
taste. For information visit
140 years in the town’s diary. anything else any kid aged
shrewsburyflowershow.org.uk.
0-14 could possibly want.
FOOD AND DRINK!
DARWIN’S BIRTHDAY
Shrewsbury Food Festival, FOLKIE FUN
Every February, to mark
in June, is something a Shrewsbury Folk Festival
Charles Darwin’s birthday
bit different. Over 200 of
(12th Feb), we celebrate is like no other. A music
the county’s best artisan
our most famous former festival where you can park
producers set up shop in the
resident with lectures, walks right next to your tent or
Quarry Park where top chefs
and activities to inspire the caravan, hop on a bus into
are on hand to impart some
next generation. There’s town, enjoy proper showers
of their culinary whizz. A live
even an annual race and toilets, use as much free
music stage and a host of
in his honour with a WiFi as you want, safely
activities makes this festival
Darwin-inspired medal for
one of the best in the UK. take the children and see
all competitors.
world famous musicians in
an incredibly laid back style.
Sounds good? They also ask
the question, is it a music
festival with beer or a beer
festival with music?
01 Shrewsbury Flower Show
02 Shrewsbury Food Festival
03 Shrewsbury Folk Festival
-03
o ri g i n al s hrewsbury.co.uk | 37You can also read
