Shropshire’s claim to fame is that it is the largest landlocked county in England and no one knows where it is! From the rolling Shropshire Hills in the south to the plains and meres in the north, the county has something for everyone.
It is a fantastic combination of idyllic country life with the hustle and bustle of its lively and sometimes sophisticated towns. If it’s fresh air you crave, Shropshire is the place for you. There are Shropshire hills to climb, gourmet restaurants in Ludlow, rivers throughout including the mighty River Severn which flows through the county town of Shrewsbury.
Shropshire is blessed with a fantastic selection of state and private schools. For a more comprehensive list of schools in the area - take a look at 'The Good Schools Guide'.
Shrewsbury
In the heart of the county, Shrewsbury is a charming combination of cobbled streets, Georgian buildings, The Quarry Park complete with bandstand along the River Severn one could almost be transported back in time. Steeped in history it is the birth place of Charles Darwin. But then there are lively bars and restaurants, a good club scene, the theatre Severn, Shrewsbury Football & Rugby Clubs, outdoor concerts, a castle and more independent shops than anywhere else in the country, why live anywhere else?
Much Wenlock
Much Wenlock’s claim to fame is that it was the birthplace of the modern Olympic movement. This quintessentially English town has the beautiful Wenlock Priory, a weekly market, vintage shops and enticing galleries. In some peoples’ minds their main reason for visiting is A Ryan and Sons, the butchers.
Ludlow
Once visited, never forgotten. Ludlow is a medieval town with fabulous restaurants, an eclectic selection of galleries; it is a foodies and shoppers’ delight. In the centre of the town is a ruined castle and for those not interested in the aesthetic things in life one can always have a day out at the races.
Church Stretton
Nestled in the Shropshire Hills Church Stretton is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty and is a haven for walkers and anyone who enjoys all manner of outdoor activities. Nicknamed little Switzerland this pretty town is close to Acton Scott, the Victorian working farm.
Bridgnorth
Rising 110 feet upwards the high and low towns of Bridgnorth are separated by the River Severn. For those not keen on walking up the ancient flight of steps there is England’s oldest and steepest inland Funicular railway. Many of the sixteenth and seventeenth century houses still remain surrounding the castle and churches of the high town.
Oswestry
To the North West of the county near the border with Wales there are good transport links to Chester and the North. There is an active classical music scene, Chirk Castle, Offa’s Dyke and for train enthusiasts the Llangollen steam train is close by. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace of life a trip on a narrow boat on the Llangollen Canal is a must.
Hereford
Bordering Shropshire is the equally beautiful Herefordshire.
Hereford is like Shrewsbury, being the centre of the county and is on the River Wye. A traffic free city centre makes it easy for visitors to roam around and enjoy its delights including the spectacular cathedral. If its fruit and veg you like this is the place for you. Well known for its cider, there’s even a cider museum and it’s the HQ of Tyrells crisps. Close to Hay on Wye, it’s a book lover’s paradise and a fabulous place to live.
Staffordshire
Bordering the north-east of Shropshire is one of the busier parts of the Midlands, Staffordshire. From the suburbs of Wolverhampton in the south of the county, to Cannock Chase leading to the bottom of the Peak District in the North, there is always something happening. Staffordshire is home to the famous Alton Towers Theme Park, as well as breweries, potteries and more - scattered with lots of little villages Staffordshire provides a wonderful sense of community.