Shrewsbury attractions and events
With its narrow, cobbled streets and charming Tudor buildings, Shrewsbury is an attraction in itself. It's a treasure trove of a town with dozens of diamonds to discover, from famous historical sites to family-friendly parks and gardens.
To help you explore, here are some of our favourite Shrewsbury attractions – all within walking distance of our Grade II*-listed hotel.
Historic sites
Did you know Shrewsbury is home to nearly 800 listed buildings?
Yes, our town is a feast for history fans. In some parts of the medieval town centre, you can't walk more than a few metres without spotting a blue plaque. We love it.
Top of the list is Shrewsbury Castle. This majestic 11th-century fort stands on a gentle slope overlooking the town – proud and resplendent in red sandstone. Best of all, the grounds are free to visit, though there's an admission fee to tour the castle itself.
Right in the heart of town – and just opposite our hotel – you'll find St Alkmund's Church. This part-Georgian, part-medieval wonder has long been among the most popular Shrewsbury attractions for fans of historical architecture. Visible for miles, its 56-metre spire is a distinctive feature of the Shrewsbury skyline.
A short distance away sits St Mary's Church – the only complete medieval church in town – and, just across the river, the imposing Shrewsbury Abbey. With the uniquely palatial St Chad's also within walking distance of the old town, fans of liturgical architecture are spoiled for choice.
There are many more sites worth visiting. Hundreds more, in fact. Like the storied Shrewsbury Prison, the engineering wellspring of the Flaxmill Maltings, and Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery – a historical goldmine in its own right. We could go on – but you'll have more fun discovering them yourself.
Local shops
Shrewsbury has history – but it's not a town to rest on its laurels. The modern Shrewsbury is a thriving, vibrant place where independent shops stand alongside centuries-old timber-framed buildings.
These independents have transformed Shrewsbury into Shropshire's number-one shopping destination. For many visitors, the best Shrewsbury attractions can be found lining the narrows of Milk Street and the nearby High Street.
These artisan retail hubs have a little bit of everything. Skincare boutiques. Fashion outlets. Quirky pubs and cafes. Bric-a-brac shops. You name it.
If you love big brands, skip along to The Darwin Centre. A modern mall in medieval surroundings, it hosts high-street favourites along with a few select independents.
And let's not forget Shrewsbury Market Hall. Here, more than 60 independent traders ply a parade of rare gems, ranging from tasty pastries to vintage clothing. Pay it a visit, get a little lost and discover why it's been crowned 'Britain's Favourite Market' three times.
Just around the corner, you'll find the Old Market Hall – now home to an independent cinema and a stylish cafe bar. It's worth visiting for the impressive vaulted ceiling alone.
The great outdoors
We can't talk about Shrewsbury attractions without mentioning the River Severn.
This mighty waterway almost encircles the town centre. In times past, it shielded Shrewsbury from invading forces. Today, however, it offers an escape route – a tranquil, twisting oasis that feels a million miles from the town it borders. It's well worth following the river trail, whether to spot its seven famous bridges or simply revel in its rural splendour.
Along its banks on the western side of town, you'll find the Quarry – a 29-acre parkland with more than 300 years of history. Among its manicured pathways, you'll find stone statues, an impressive war memorial and several distinctive rows of lime trees. And don't miss The Dingle – the park's landscaped centrepiece, set within the medieval stone quarry that lends the park its name.