Overview
Explore the county town of Shrewsbury, set on the River Severn with this walking tour. With medieval streets and over 660 listed buildings you can trace Shrewsbury through time, taking in Shrewsbury Abbey, the Town Walls and Shrewsbury castle on your walk.
Shrewsbury Abbey
The abbey site has been a place of worship extending back to Anglo-Saxon times. Shrewsbury Abbey was founded as a Benedictine Monastery in 1083 and today stands on a large pear shaped green. Take your time and explore the relics, towers and stain glass windows.
Coleham Pumping Station
Visit the English Heritage Coleham Pumping Station, home to two massive steam-driven beam engines that were built on site in 1897 as part of Shrewsbury’s new sewage system. Explore the wider museum to view other exhibits and splendid architecture.
Town Walls
Explore the history of the Town Walls of Shrewsbury and wander the medieval defensive fortifications dating back to 1220 and updated in the 14th century by King Henry III. On certain open days you can explore the Town Walls last remaining WatchTower, Wingfield.
The Quarry
The main recreational park in Shrewsbury, The Quarry extends for 29 acres and has The Dingle a magnificent formal floral masterpiece at its centre, created by Percy Thrower. The Quarry is the venue for the annual Shrewsbury Flower Show, with Shrewsbury Regatta and Dragon Boat racing on the nearby River Severn.
Saint Chad's Church
A uniquely round church, St. Chad’s has three angels on the ceiling representing the Holy Trinity. 2012 saw significant refurbishment of the tower. St. Chad’ was the first church in the country to sign the Armed Forces Agreement.
Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery
Along the narrow paved streets with old buildings on either side and on the site of the old Music Hall, the Museum & Gallery has a series of galleries including Roman Gallery, Medieval, Tudor and Stuart exhibitions. Over a thousand objects, including many local finds such Roman tombstones and the Shropshire Mammoth combine to take you on a journey through history.
Shropshire Regimental Museum
Housed in the medieval fortress of Shrewsbury Castle the Shropshire Regimental Museum is a trove of medals, uniforms, weapons, paintings and silverware stretching back to the 18th century.
Shrewsbury Castle
The red sandstone building of Shrewsbury Castle has a commanding position on the River Severn opposite Shrewsbury Abbey and provides panoramic views across the town of Shrewsbury. The castle is home to the Shropshire Regimental Museum.
The Dana Prison
The Dana was a men’s prison that closed in 2013 and dates back over 200 years. Take a tour behind the high walls and experience life as a prisoner in this historic building.
Laura's Tower
Built around 1790, Laura’s Tower is part of series of alterations to Shrewsbury Castle overseen by the designer and architect Thomas Telford.