Bridgnorth, Shropshire
"The finest view in all my Kingdom" - Charles I
Whether you admire the view over the king's shoulder from the sandstone cliff of Bridgnorth, or stand on the bridge below, (at the height of summer the Severn is almost covered by the flowers of water crowfoot) you won't have to look far to find a superlative in the Severn Valley.
Like the King, most of our visitors can't restrain themselves.
Bridgnorth was once one of the busiest river ports in Europe, but nowadays, the Severn, clear and unpolluted, is a quiet haven for anglers, walkers and wildlife. The river divides the town into High Town and Low Town, the two being linked by seven sets of ancient donkey steps and a Victorian funicular, the Bridgnorth Cliff Railway.
"If you approach the High Town by the cliff railway you feel you are being lifted up to heaven." - John Betjeman
The oldest and steepest inland funicular railway makes the heavenly journey at least 150 times a day. In 1892, when it opened, the entrance was watched over by a temperance restaurant and refreshment house.
Just as rewarding for the pilgrim is the ancient Cartway, one of Shropshire's most interesting streets which leads down to the flower-filled Quayside, the cliffs and caves of Lavington Gardens and on to Severn Park.
Whichever route you choose to the top, you can enjoy King Charles' 'finest view' from Castle Walk, before checking out another of the valley's superlatives, the Castle Keep that leans at an impossible angle greater than the Tower of Pisa.
History abounds in Bridgnorth. Thomas Telford's church of St Mary Magdalene sits grandly next door, while the timber-framed Town Hall set on high brick piers, interrupts the traffic flow in the High Street. The redundant but revered St Leonard's Church set in its own cathedral-like close provides calm away from the hustle and bustle of the town.
The medieval Northgate, which houses the Northgate Museum stands guard at one end of the High Street whilst the Italianate splendour of the New Market Buildings stand at the other.
18th century writers compared Bridgnorth's spectacular setting to old Jerusalem, or even Gibraltar.
Who are we to disagree?
Please click here to view a map of Bridgnorth town centre.
Attractions in Bridgnorth
Bridgnorth Castle
The remains of Bridgnoth Castle are set on a cliff by the side of the River Severn.
College House, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 4EJ
01746 762231
Bridgnorth Cliff Railway
This remarkable funicular railway is the oldest and steepest inland electric cliff railway in the country.
Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 4AH
01746 762124
Country Treks
Choose from tiny tots woodland treks, Gruffalo trails, family rides, cream tea rides or enjoy a jug of pimms on return from your ride! We also offer superb tuition as we are home to 4 UKCC professional coaches and offer confidence building beginner lessons right up to X Country jumping and show jumping for the more advanced rider.
Stottesdon, Shropshire, DY14 8UH
01746 718436
Canoe UK
Open top canoe trips on river with pub stop and steam train return. Also 2 day river adventures. Suitable for all ages and abilities.
Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 4BJ
07774 907326
The Dower House Garden at Morville Hall
The Dower House Garden occupies a 1.5 acre site in a beautiful setting within the grounds of Morville Hall (National Trust), near Bridgnorth in Shropshire.
Morville Hall, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 5NB
01746 714407
Northgate Museum
Town Museum housed in the historic Burgess's Hall above Northgate containing a range of interesting artefacts reflecting the history of Bridgnorth and its people.
Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 4ER
01746 711486
Arley Arboretum & Gardens
Arley Arboretum & Gardens provides the ideal day out for you and your family, a dream escape from the bustle of everyday life. There is plenty to do for all ages from the Italian garden with its fountain, to the Themed Trails and maze. Our Peacocks are also a splendid sight wandering around the gardens.
Nr. Bewdley, Worcestershire, DY12 1SQ
01299 861368
Severn Valley Country Park
Green Flag Award winning Country Park. Teashop and toilets. 3 way-marked trails. Parking at Alveley and Highley. Located on National Cycle Network (Route 45). Play area. Request stop on the Severn Valley Railway.
Alveley, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV15 6NG
01746 781192
Bridgnorth Town Hall
Bridgnorth Town Hall is a black and white building erected in 1650. In the 16th Century the view up the High Street would have been uninterrupted. In the centre of the street would have been the High Cross, otherwise known as a Market Cross. Opposite the top of Hungry Street, now St Mary’s Street, stood the 'New House', a raised building containing the office of the town's chief magistrates. On the ground floor was the public wool market.
Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 4DX
01746 762231
The Edge Adventure Activities
Enjoy a huge range of activities including Quad Biking / Trekking, Mountain Boarding, Grass Boarding, Mountain Biking, Clay Pigeon Shooting, Archery and Team Building Activities
Shrewsbury Road, Much Wenlock, Shropshire, TF13 6DB
01952 727491
Accommodation in Bridgnorth
Manor Holding Cottage (Bewdley)
Manor Holding is a Grade II, half timbered, Jacobean cottage farmhouse in the scattered hamlet of Kingswood, so named after the royal forest of Wyre in whose centre it stands.
Bewdley, West Midlands,
07970 260010
Bulls Head Inn
Superb 17th Century Country Inn, set amidst Shropshire's rolling hills with stunning views over the Severn Valley & Chelmarsh Reservoir and offering a unique mix of Bed & Breakfast and Self-catering accommodation.
Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 6BA
01746 861469
Hardwicke Farm Bed & Breakfast
Peaceful 16th Century farmhouse on working farm, located between Ludlow, Bridgnorth and Kidderminster. Warm homely atmosphere, spacious accommodation. Lovely walks in surrounding picturesque countryside.
Cleobury Mortimer, Worcestershire, DY14 8TN
01746 718220
Claverley Touring Site
Camping and Caravanning certificated hideaway site in the lovely Shropshire village of Claverley. Three pubs within a 5 minute walk. Central for local attractions.
Griffiths Green, Claverley, Nr Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV5 7BG
01746 710336
The Dinney Holiday Cottages
Escape to The Dinney where we offer you 6 delightful self catering holiday cottages in the heart of the Shropshire countryside. Our holiday cottages accommodate between 3 and 20 guests in both traditionally converted barns or contemporary new cottages.
Chelmarsh, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 6AU
01746 861070
Bulls Head Inn - Self Catering
Superbly furnished cottage with stone featured walls. Sleeps 7 adults/ Fully equipped. Quiet location near owners 17thC inn.
Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 6BA
01746 861469
Hurst Farm Cottages
Pretty cottages over looking lakes and open countryside. Well equipped, patios, gardens. Within easy reach of Bridgnorth, Ironbridge and Much Wenlock. Coarse and fly fishing on site.
Morville, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 4TF
01746 714375
The Halfway House Inn - Caravan and Camping
Touring caravan and camping park set in the stunningly beautiful Shropshire countryside, adjacent to family run 17th century coaching inn. Activity & sporting holidays available.
Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 5LS
01746 762670
Boningale Manor Barns
Whether you are holidaying or on business, expect the warmest of welcomes here at Boningale Manor. Grade II listed (with features dating back to the 1300s) several barns have been imaginatively converted to provide 4-Star self-catering choices. They are set in farmland and share access to beautiful gardens.
Albrighton, West Midlands, WV7 3AT
0748 3131 707
Woodberry Inn
The Woodberry Inn is a unique free house set in the heart of Bridgnorth, serving real ales and fine dining. The building has been handsomely transformed with oak flooring, wood burners, and leather seating, creating a stylish environment for everyone.
Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 4LF
01746 762950
Shops in Bridgnorth
Alley Katz & Piglets Toy Shops Ltd
01952 730336
Apley Farm Shop, Stockton Farm Buildings, Norton, Shifnal, Shropshire, TF11 9EF
TwoJays Corner Antiques & Vintage
01952 462340
Unit 21c Shifnal Industrial Estate, Lamledge Lane, Shifnal, Shropshire, TF11 8SD
Chez Hippo at Apley Farm Shop
01952 730848
Stockton Buildings, Norton, Nr Shifnal, Shropshire, TF11 9EF
Sarah's Mobile Hair
07540 104014
Food & Drink in Bridgnorth
The Halfway House Inn
A traditional 16th Century Coaching Inn in the heart of the Shropshire countryside, under 2 miles from the historic town of Bridgnorth. We specialise in short breaks and activity and sporting holidays.
01746 762670
Cleobury Mortimer Road, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 5LS
Woodberry Inn
The Woodberry Inn is a unique free house set in the heart of Bridgnorth, serving real ales and fine dining. The building has been handsomely transformed with oak flooring, wood burners, and leather seating, creating a stylish environment for everyone.
01746 762950
70 Victoria Road, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 4LF
The Hundred House Hotel
Atmospheric, family run Georgian coaching inn renowned for its award winning cuisine and hospitality. Our stunning 17th century Tithe Barn is ideal for Weddings, conference and banqueting.
01952 580240
Bridgnorth Road (A442), Norton, Nr Shifnal, Telford, Shropshire, TF11 9EE
The Pheasant at Neenton
The Pheasant at Neenton is a stunningly restored dining pub with rooms, serving superb Shropshire food in a real country local. We have three newly-opened en-suite bedrooms, with relaxing décor and furnished with a touch of style.
01746 787955
Neenton, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 6RJ
Dan & Wills Ice Cream
07813701758
Office 8 Central Court, High Street, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 4BD
Bridgnorth Visitor Information
The Library, Listley Street, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 4AW.
Tel: 01746 763257 Fax : 01746 766625
Email: bridgnorth.tourism@shropshire.gov.uk
Open all Year: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 9.30am - 5pm Saturday 9.00am-5pm
