Why Shropshire?
Whilst in lock down....... I am continuing to think of all the places in our beautiful country that I have never visited and have landed in Shropshire. Situated in the centre of the UK bordering on Wales, there is not a coast line in sight. What would i find to interest me there?
I do like to take myself for a walk. So, I see this lake and it ticks all my boxes. Join a trail through the woodland and birds are soon all around you. You can see and hear pied flycatchers and redstarts, while dippers nest by the lake, and above you ravens, buzzards and peregrines soar in the skies. There's plenty for children including nest box and animal trails, and a wild playground. Of course, this isn’t the only place in Shropshire for a nice walk you could try the Wrekin, Haughmond Hill or Odda’s Dyke Path.
Activities
If you fancy more of an Adrenalin boost, Shropshire can offer a skydiving experience. There are ample opportunities to Canoe or take a raft tour on the river Severn. How about a relaxing boat tour – even a horse drawn canal boat cruise? For the animal lovers amongst us there is Hoo Farm Animal Kingdom or the Exotic Zoo.
Ironbridge Gorge Museums
I do like a bit of history and to see how things got done. In this scenic area, often used by moviemakers because of its unspoiled, authentic 18th-century architecture, offers several museums that represent a different aspect of Britain's industrial heritage. This is the world's first iron bridge is located in Ironbridge, the cradle of the Industrial Revolution.
Bit of history
Shropshire is home to some of the most fantastic historical sites in the entire country. From the impressive remains at Wroxeter Roman City, the fourth largest Roman settlement in England, to Brunel’s world famous Ironbridge, Shropshire has something for everyone.
Originally a part of the Welsh kingdom of Powys, Shropshire was annexed to the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Mercia sometime in the eighth century AD. Shortly afterwards, King Offa looked to fortify his new territory by constructing Offa’s Dyke, a huge 115 mile defensive earthwork stretching from the River Severn to just north of modern day Oswestry. Shropshire boasts some of the best preserved stretches of the Dyke.
Another example of Shropshire’s turbulent and violent history comes from the numerous castles that litter the county. One of the most impressive of these is Whittington Castle, pictured at the top of this page, a 13th century fortress built on an earlier Norman motte-and-bailey.
Other castles in the county include Ludlow Castle, built shortly after the Norman Conquest in 1066 to control the troubled Welsh Borders. Nearby Clun Castle is another Norman fortress built to defend against the Welsh, although the original motte-and-bailey was brought down by Welsh mauraders in 1196. The remains that can be seen today date from the 13th century.
The county town of Shrewsbury is also well worth a visit if you are nearby. The centre of the town is still based on the original medieval street plan, and there are over 650 listed buildings with many dating back to the 15th century. Shrewsbury also boasts its very own castle, parts of which dates back to the 11th century.
Finally, a trip to Shropshire wouldn’t be complete without visiting Much Wenlock, home of the modern Olympic games. The town itself has some stunning medieval buildings, including the Guildhall that is open to the public in summer months.
Now you have seen some of what Shropshire has to offer! Why not contact me to discuss work opportunities. Message or call me on 07484 906 671