It’s in the heartland of England – in the West Midlands, immediately accessible practically wherever you live in the UK. Many people will describe the best aspect of Shropshire as its stunning landscape and scenery. But there’s a whole lot more besides.
For those seeking some peace and quiet against a typically English rural background, you’ll be pleased to find that Shropshire is also a whole lot less touristy than, say, the Lake District or the Cotswolds.
The landscape
It’s in the very name – the Shropshire Hills National Landscape (successor designation for an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). Its 310 square miles (802sq. km) cover practically a quarter of the whole county.
The National Landscape also includes such popular landmarks and waymarked paths (from an easy stroll to a full day’s hiking) as:
- Stiperstones – where the National Nature Reserve makes it a favourite for birdwatchers;
- Wenlock Edge;
- Long Mynd – the alternative terminal for the frequent bus shuttle tour from Stiperstones; and
- The Wrekin – where a relatively short stroll will take you to the top of this iconic hill and its much-photographed panoramic vistas.
Picturesque towns and villages
Dotted around this stunning landscape of rolling hills, verdant valleys, and wilder heathland are the picturesque towns and villages of central England.
The quaint county town of Shrewsbury might be the initial focus of your discovery as you wander the cobbled streets once also walked by Charles Darwin, admire the many Tudor-period buildings, and browse its independent shops. A visit to Shrewsbury Abbey is also time well spent. The county council’s website offers a helpful selection of suggested walking tours to make the most of the town.
Other towns and villages to visit include Bishop’s Castle (for its artisanal breweries), Much Wenlock (where the Wenlock Olympic Games of 1850 were the forerunner of the modern Olympics), and Ludlow (with its welter of Michelin-starred restaurants making it a foodie haven).
History in abundance
Ironbridge Gorge can rightfully boast its place at the very heart of recent English history. It is the site of the Industrial Revolution that changed the face not only of this country but large parts of the world. (Our blog: 7 places to visit in Central England and the Midlands also covers Ironbridge Gorge).
It’s here that the modern process of smelting iron with coke was developed – igniting the revolution that fired English industrialisation with the construction of the iconic “iron bridge” that still stands today.
But Shropshire traces back its history much further. The ruins of Wroxeter Roman City – then called Viroconium – are evidence of a bustling Roman settlement.
The pivotal role played by a county on the border with Wales is ever-present and can be seen today in the likes of Ludlow Castle or Stokesay Castle.
Food and drink
Not only does Shropshire offer stunning landscapes, chocolate-box towns and villages, and history aplenty, but it also knows how to show its visitors the good life. Food and drink are accorded their proper respect and recognition throughout the county.
A case in point is the Ludlow Food Festival (held this year from the 12th to the 14th of September 2025) where a lively programme of cookery demonstrations, workshops, a live fire stage, and talks by international chefs and experts await – all showcasing the excellence of produce from the Ludlow Marches.
But you don’t have to wait until September. Farmers’ markets are held all year round throughout the county and you’ll be able to sample local fare such as Shropshire blue cheese, artisan ales, and Ludlow sausages.