Ironbridge, Shrewsbury & The Severn Cruise

Itinerary

Day 1

Enjoy the journey, boarding your coach at your convenient local pick up point. Time to relax as we head to Shropshire with a stop in the thriving medieval market town of Ludlow, an historic town surrounded by the beautiful countryside of south Shropshire and the Welsh Marches. We have free time to explore and maybe have a bite to eat before continuing our journey. On arrival at your hotel, check in and relax perhaps with a drink in the lounge-bar, before enjoying the included dinner.

Day 2

After a hearty breakfast, head out to famous Ironbridge Gorge. We include entry to Blists Hill Victorian Town. This living museum vividly re-enacts life in Ironbridge from the early 1700s to the Victorian era. Discover more about Victorian life as you meet the 'Victorian' townsfolk. No cars. No TV. Just tons of fun! Welcome to the age of Queen Victoria. Here you’ll experience what life was like when Britain ruled the world. Meet some (almost) real Victorians in their authentic shops and cottages, buy curious goods from a bygone era and watch tradespeople in action in their atmospheric workshops and factories. Visit the Bank and find out about pounds, shillings and pence, check out the weird Victorian remedies at the Pharmacy and discover why you wouldn't want to be caught with green candles at home! Ride the old-fashioned fairground or play games of skill for some Victorian leisure time, and for lunch you can enjoy a bag of fish and chips cooked the traditional way in beef dripping, and bag a traditional 19th Century sweet or two! There will also be time to marvel at the magnificent Ironbridge, from which the site gets its name. We return to your hotel in the evening for a tasty dinner.

Day 3

After enjoying our last lovely breakfast, we make our way to the ancient county town of Shrewsbury. Enjoy time to explore the cobbled streets and historic buildings with the opportunity to browse the lovely independent shops and eateries.there’s free time to explore the quaint narrow streets and hidden alleyways, before making our way home in the afternoon, full of memories of our wonderful time in Shropshire.

Ludlow

INCLUDED Visitor DestinationFrom its ancient castle to peaceful back streets, exploring the perfect, medieval market town of Ludlow is a real pleasure. The lovely feel combines centuries of history and fascinating architecture, and means a visit to Ludlow will not disappoint. Ludlow is home to a varied range of independently owned shops, including family businesses where you can find gifts, antiques, clothes, books and more. Ludlow has a reputation for the quality of its food and drink with many excellent restaurants and cafes encouraged by the areas abundance of quality food & drink producers. Why not also take time to visit the museums and church, or the 11th Century Castle which sits dramatically atop the cliff above the River Teme, all surrounded by the beautiful countryside of south Shropshire and the Welsh Marches.

For more information on what to see and do in Ludlow, click here (opens in a new window)

Ironbridge Valley of Invention

INCLUDED Visitor Destination

Come and explore the extraordinary at Ironbridge Valley of Invention. Be inspired by a story of creativity, craftsmanship and innovation which changed the world in the stunning Ironbridge Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ironbridge Gorge is a remarkable destination where you can step back in time to the heart of the Industrial Revolution. The iconic Iron Bridge itself spans the picturesque River Severn, serving as a symbol of innovation.

A short distance away, Blists Hill Victorian Town offers an immersive experience into the daily life of a 19th-century industrial town. Wander through its cobbled streets lined with authentic shops, factories, and homes, and interact with costumed characters bringing history to life. Don't miss the opportunity to witness traditional crafts, taste Victorian-era sweets, and explore the recreated industries of the time, such as the foundry and the pharmacy.

Also discover the Museum of the Gorge following major conservation and restoration work. Find out about the history of the building, a former warehouse used to transport goods by river during the Industrial Revolution. Learn about the essential conservation work that has been carried out to help preserve it. See a selection of reproductions of historic maps of Shropshire from the Patricia Bracegirdle Collection, which show the development of the county, its transport systems and its towns during the Industrial Revolution.

Together, it all creates a captivating journey into history, where you can witness the profound impact of the Industrial Revolution in a hands-on and educational manner.

Click here for more information on Ironbridge (opens in a new window)

Shrewsbury with Cruise on the Severn

INCLUDED Visitor DestinationShrewsbury is set amidst the glorious Shropshire countryside near to the Welsh Borders and is one of England’s finest medieval market towns. The town has over 600 listed buildings including the Castle and the Abbey, home of the fictional Brother Cadfael.

Shrewsbury is situated inside a loop of the River Severn which makes it the ideal place to enjoy our included river cruise.

When you are not on the water you can soak up the history of the town, from the medieval castle built by William the Conqueror in 1067 or the Ditherington Flax Mill which is commonly regarded as 'the grandfather of the skyscraper.' It is also the County Town of Shropshire with its Tudor centre a marvel of half timbered houses that you are sure to enjoy. The historic centre is a shopper’s heaven packed with designer shops, smart new malls and an amazing range of independent retailers. And of course all the bars, cafes, restaurants and you could ever wish for.

For further information, click here (opens in a new window)

Tour Includes

• 2 nights hotel with English breakfast and evening meals
• Visit to Ludlow
• Day exploring the Ironbridge Gorge, Blists Hill Victorian Town & The Museum of the Gorge
• Visit to Shrewsbury including a 45-minute river cruise with tea/coffee and biscuits
• Direct Coach travel
• Net zero carbon

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Accommodation

Holiday Inn Telford - Ironbridge Shropshire

Holiday Inn Telford, nestled in the heart of Shropshire, offers a comfortable and convenient stay. This contemporary hotel boasts modern amenities and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Relax in stylish, well-appointed bedrooms with a choice of pillows and plush bedding to help you sleep. Facilities include en-suite bathroom with shower bath, hairdryer, iron and ironing board, air-conditioning, flat-screen TV and complimentary Wi-Fi. The Revive Leisure Club offers fitness equipment, sauna, spa pool, indoor swimming pool and steam room (pre-booking may be required). Enjoy dining in the hotel's restaurant, and the bar/lounge provides a perfect spot to unwind with a drink.

The hotel ensures a pleasant stay with comfortable rooms, excellent dining options, and attentive service, making it an ideal base for exploring the historic and picturesque region of Shropshire. With its central location, guests have easy access to Telford's top attractions, including the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site.

For more information, click here for the hotel website (opens in a new window) Back to top