Telford & Shropshire Delegate Guide 09

enjoyRESTAURANTSATTRACTIONSDAYS OUTSHOPPING

DELEGATE GUIDE

Dare to indulge

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Meet, Rest and Play It’s time to relax and indulge yourself in the very best of our destination

Let us be your guide to one of the UK’s top visitor destinations that welcomes over 1.6 million visitors a year. Discover world class attractions, award winning restaurants, great days out, vibrant nights and a shopping paradise.

Welcome to an amazing destination

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ContentsGetting around Shropshire 3Enjoy the journey 5World Famous 7 Town or Country 9Top 10 attractions 11Great days out 13Great nights out 17Shop til you drop 19Arts & Culture 21Eating out 23Spa Days 25Edge of adventure 27Stay a little longer 29Anniversaries, Festivals & Events 31Visitor information centres 32Special Offer Vouchers

Have a wonderful stay

Enjoy your stay Check out our Special Discount Vouchers

2www.shropshiretourism.co.uk

Getting around and about

www.visitironbridge.co.uk

Getting around Shropshire

Closer than you think however you travel you will find Telford and Shropshire well connected. 2 hours from London, 40 minutes from Birmingham and 2.5 hours from Leeds and York.

By Road – The M54 links Shropshire to the heart of England while getting around the county is seamless with the A5 and the A49.

By Rail – Shropshire is connected to the mainline intercity network via Virgin and the new direct service from London Marylebone operated by Wrexham and Shropshire railways. Central Trains offer an excellent local service between the main towns. www.thetrainline.comwww.wsmr.co.uk www.virgintrains.co.uk

By Bus – An excellent bus service is on offer to the major towns operated by Arriva while the Shropshire Hills Shuttle takes visitors to the beautiful villages and towns surrounding the Shropshire Hills.Traveline 0871 200 2233.

By Coach – National Express run services to many Shropshire towns. www.nationalexpress.com

By Air – With 2 international airports on the doorstep getting here by air is simple. Birmingham Airport is only 40 minutes away while Manchester is just over 1 hour. www.bhx.co.ukwww.manchesterairport.co.uk

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A5

A5

A458

A458

A442

A49

A49A

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A456

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A5

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A483

A5

A496

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A49

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A53

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A525

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A456

A518

A41

A442

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A525

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A34

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A4123

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A34

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A456

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A528

A4113 A4110

A4117

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M54

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Whitchurch

Market Drayton

Wem

IRONBRIDGE

Wellington

High Ercall

Much Wenlock

Bridgnorth

Church Stretton

BishopÕs Castle

LUDLOW

Newport

TELFORD

WOLVERHAMPTON

SHREWSBURY

Ellesmere

Oswestry

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Maps not to scale

Telford & Shropshire

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Enjoy the journey

PLYMOUTH

SOUTHAMPTON BRIGHTON

CARDIFF

INVERNESS

ABERDEEN

EDINBURGH

GLASGOW

NEWCASTLE

LEEDSPRESTON

MANCHESTER

LIVERPOOL

NOTTINGHAM

LEICESTER

OXFORD

BRISTOL

LONDON

NORWICHTELFORD& SHROPSHIRE

COVENTRY WARWICK

CHESTER

YORK

DUBLIN

BELFAST

BIRMINGHAM

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M74 A69

A1

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M23

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M54

6 www.shropshiretourism.co.uk

Ironbridge

World Famous


From the First Parliament to the place where the Industrial Revolution began – a rich heritage which has continued through the ages to create todays vibrant and innovative business and leisure district. Behind the breathtaking landscape lie stories of astonishing achievement, a magical experience, a must see destination.

One of the world’s must see destinations

Celebrate our big birthdays in 2009• 200 years ago evolution

naturalist Charles Darwin was born and lived in Shrewsbury.

• 300 years ago Abraham Darby first smelted iron using coke fuelling an industrial revolution with a global impact.

• 200 years ago Much Wenlock GP Dr William Penny-Brookes inspired the modern Olympic Games.

ShrewsburyEngland’s finest Tudor town with character shops and cosmopolitan cafes set among historic black and white buildings and ancient passageways with a castle, abbey, parkland, and boat rides on the River Severn. www.visitshrewsbury.com

TelfordA modern and ambitious town with all the facilities you need. The county’s largest indoor shopping complex, a 450 acre Town Park within walking distance of an ice rink, ten pin bowling, multiplex cinema, pubs and clubs. Top class hotels in and around town give a relaxing leisure experience. www.visitironbridge.co.uk

LudlowThe gastronomic capital of Shropshire and internationally famous for its Food Festival. This 900 year old Norman Town is quintessential England. Ludlow Castle, medieval and Georgian buildings, award winning restaurants, boutique shopping and a colourful market are just some of the attractions. www.visitsouthshropshire.co.uk

IronbridgeOne of the World’s must see destinations. The town is a World Heritage Site with 10 award winning museums, traditional shops, lively pubs and excellent restaurants beautifully nestled around the world’s first Iron Bridge spanning the picturesque River Severn. www.visitironbridge.co.uk


Shrewsbury – “England’s finest Tudor Town” Lonely Planet Guide

Town or Country

BridgnorthA beautiful market town on two levels with half timbered buildings and a taste of true old fashioned country charm. Home to the Severn Valley Steam Railway and England’s steepest inland Funicular Railway taking you on a magical 100ft trip to the top of town. www.bridgnorthshropshire.com

Much Wenlock A 700-year-old picturesque town with half timbered black and white buildings containing speciality shops, fine dining restaurants, traditional inns and the remains of a 12th century priory. Walk the Wenlock Olympian Trail in the town where the Modern Olympics began. www.muchwenlocktourism.com.uk

Discover more...

Visit Bishops Castle, Oswestry,

Whitchurch, Craven Arms, Market

Drayton, Newport, Church

Stretton, Shifnal and Albrighton.


Breathtaking landscapes, quintessential English villages, modern and vibrant towns. From urban adventures to rural retreats, the choice is yours.

Ludlow Castle9

Ironbridge Gorge Museums10 amazing museums celebrating the history of the Ironbridge Gorge – a World Heritage Site. From Enginuity an interactive Science Museum to Jackfield Tile Museum and Coalport China Museum. Duration from 30 minutes to 4 hrs for each site www.ironbridge.co.uk

Blists Hill Victorian TownOne of the UK’s largest open air museums recreating a 19th century Victorian town, step back in time, enjoy the Victorian Fairground, visit Victorian Shops, a magical experience.Duration 2-4 hrs www.ironbridge.co.uk

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Severn Valley RailwayRelax in style on a steam train and see the largest collection of working steam trains in the UK – the backdrop for many a movie. Duration 2½ hrs return trip www.svr.co.uk

Wroxeter Roman VineyardA vineyard tour with lunch and wine on a Roman site for wine novice or connoisseur Duration 2-3 hours www.wroxetervineyard.co.uk

Weston Park

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RAF Museum, CosfordFree admission to this awesome museum. A massive collection of planes, missiles and aero engines – the UK’s largest display.Duration 1-3 hours www.rafmuseum.org.uk

National Cold War Exhibition A world class attraction, home to Britain’s famous “V” bombers and a fascinating insight into this dangerous political era. Duration 1 hour to half a day www.nationalcoldwarmuseum.org.uk

Weston ParkOne of England’s finest stately homes set in 1,000 acres. Explore the opulent house, grounds and gardens. Duration 2-3 hours www.weston-park.com

Hawkstone Park FolliesAn amazing fantasy land of 200-year-old grottos and architectural oddities in 100 acres. Duration 3 hours www.hawkstone.co.uk

National TrustAttingham Park, Benthall Hall, Cardingmill Valley, Dudmaston Hall, Morville Hall, Sunnycroft, Wilderhope Manor – a host of National Trust properties to experience. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

English HeritageWenlock Priory and the fortified manor house of Stokesay Castle are definitely worth a visit. www.english-heritage.org.uk

Top10 attractions


RAF Cosford

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Bridgnorth

Shropshire RocksHawkstone Park and Follies is a fantasy land. Explore a pitch black labyrinth cut into the cliff, walk across a bridge perched over a deep chasm. Climb to the top of the 100ft high Monument to enjoy panoramic views of 13 counties from this truly magical site. Duration up to 3 hrs

Iron Mighty – World Heritage Ironbridge is a World Heritage Site ranked alongside the Taj Mahal and Pyramids. Tourists from across the world come to see this “world gem” every year. Take a riverside walk to see the world’s first Iron Bridge. Immerse yourself in 10 exciting and interactive museums. Fire your imagination in the place that changed the world. Duration 1 hour – Weekend

Great days out


A Taste of ShropshireShropshire is a gastronomic paradise. Try the gourmet delights at Michelin starred Mr Underhills or fine dining at the Hundred House or The Raven. Visit Ludlow, home to the famous International Food Festival. Taste the best of Shropshire at our famous gastro pubs, tour our vineyards and micro breweries.

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RAF Cosford


More Great days out

While Away An HourIf you have just an hour to spare why not wander around Tanners Wines in Shrewsbury and try a tasting or two... indulge yourself in one of our luxurious spas, take a walk on our beautiful Shropshire hills, a 30 minute cruise aboard Sabrina. Why not visit Shrewsbury Abbey, enjoy a walk in the park at the Quarry or visit a castle or two.

The Romance of Steam Enjoy a three course lunch or cream tea aboard a restored 1930’s steam train chugging through 16 miles of glorious countryside on the Severn Valley Railway. Duration 2½ hours

Live a Childhood DreamLearn to drive a steam train at Severn Valley Railway and bring your childhood dream to life. Includes a 25 mile journey and up to 3 guest passengers.Duration – half day

RAF Museums Cosford Home to one of the UK’s largest airplane collections. Take in the museum’s dynamic and unique National Cold War Exhibition telling the story of the Cold War. Duration 1hr to all day

Waterways Cruise the lakes at Ellesmere, sail along the Severn in a Canadian canoe or float down the Shropshire Union Canal aboard a narrow boat. Duration 1 day, weekend or 1 week

Championship GolfGet in the swing at a choice of 30 golf courses and follow in the footsteps of home-grown stars such as Ian Woosnam and Sandy Lyle. Try some of our Championship courses including those at Hawkstone Park, Patshull Park, MacDonald Hill Valley and Telford Golf and Spa Hotel.


The Furnace at Ironbridge

ShrewsburyThe streets simply buzz in Shrewsbury at night time and you’re spoilt for choice for dining delights from the historic 16th century Drapers Hall to a 6 Course gourmet experience at Renaissance. Cocktails and fine dining at Grazia or drinks in the atmospheric Armoury overlooking the riverside. What about entertainment at the new Theatre Severn, film fun at the Old Market Hall, or dancing at the Buttermarket night club.

IronbridgeStroll along the riverside and take in the hustle and bustle of a lively night out in this award winning destination. There are plenty of pubs and wine bars, fine restaurants and live entertainment venues in this special town with a truly convivial atmosphere. Try real ale at the Coalbrookdale Inn, fine dining at Da Vinci’s, the trendy Malthouse, contemporary Indian Cuisine at Pondicherry or award wining cuisine at Chez Maw at the Valley Hotel.

BridgnorthTraditional Inns speckle the streets of Bridgnorth with live entertainment from pubs and wine bars and fine dining at restaurants such as the Hundred House or Bambers set down one of the quaint side streets in this beautiful medieval town.

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Great Nights out


From 7 ‘til midnight there is something to do to suit every taste from traditional fare and live music in stylish pubs and wine bars to international cuisine in sumptuous surroundings.


Telford Shopping Centre

Shop til you drop

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Shropshire is a shopping paradise. From the medieval cobbled streets of Shrewsbury packed full of boutiques and an amazing array of individual shops to Telford’s popular indoor shopping centre and the county’s traditional food and craft markets.

Telford Shopping CentreIn the top 15 UK shopping centres – Telford has all the major brands in 160 stores with a choice of relaxing cafes all under one roof. www.telfordshopping.co.uk

Shrewsbury and the Wyle CopTread the quaint streets of Shrewsbury past black and white buildings for those special boutiques, designer shops, antique and arts shops, delicatessens, and an award winning wine merchant. www.shrewsburyshopping.co.uk


Shrewsbury Darwin Shopping Centre and Pride HillStroll through the pedestrianised main street and check out the shopping malls at not one but two indoor shopping centres with all the High Street brands at your service.www.shrewsbury-shopping.co.uk

LudlowQuaint shops in an idyllic town setting with food and drink delights for all. A gourmet capital for the connoisseur. Don’t miss Ludlow Food Market.


OMH Café Bar

Arts & Culture

A visit to the theatre of your choice, an exclusive cinema experience, art galleries, museums and so much more... TheatreShrewsbury’s exciting brand new riverside Theatre Severn, opens in early 2009, with a 650 seater auditorium and will be the place to see the best of theatre from national concerts, plays, live music and dance. The Place theatre at Oakengates, Telford, attracts star performers from around the UK.

EntertainmentGo to the cinema at the Old Market Hall in Shrewsbury’s historic Square where you sit in an Elizabethan setting, enjoy a refreshing drink and watch a cultural film. For late night entertainment take in Shrewsbury’s Buttermarket night club.


MuseumsBrowse art galleries galore across Shropshire. View fine and contemporary art including artists of international standing.Experience high calibre Shropshire arts and crafts from glass blowing to jewellery making, ceramics to fine furniture.

Get CraftyMake your own tile at the Jackfield Tile Museum, walk through an Edwardian Tube station, hotel bar, hospital and a 1930’s front room to view the fashionable tiles of the day. Visit designers and craft makers at Fusion in Jackfield, Ironbridge.


Appleyards – Shrewsbury

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Dine in styleEnjoy dining at a Michelin Star restaurant or at a traditional inn using the very best local produce all with the hospitality to match.

Shropshire TakeawayTake something of Shropshire home with you – to savour! Marvel at Maynards Meats farm cured bacons and hams, check out centuries old Applebys Cheese of Hawkstone, and their cloth bound cheeses. Wash it down with Hobsons Ale, the traditional Shropshire beer with roasted malts, from Cleobury, voted the best in Britain at the Great British Beer Festival.

Ludlow Food FestivalVisit the world famous gourmet capital to experience Ludlow foods at their best.

Tastings Whatever your tipple, take a trip to the new Ironbridge Brewery, Tanners Wines and Wroxeter Roman Vineyard where you can have a lazy lunch and taste true English Ale and Award winning wine on a Roman site.

Eating outEvery taste is catered for – from fine dining in a top hotel to a fun trip to a microbrewery or one of Shropshire’s fine delicatessens.



Lake Vyrnwy Spa

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Spa days

Q Hotels Telford Golf and Spa HotelOne of Shropshire’s top resort and spa hotels it promises a luxurious spa experience. Overlooking the World Heritage Site, the hotel boasts 6 treatment rooms, a relaxation room, nail bar, leisure club and championship golf course too. www.qhotels.co.uk

Mercure Albrighton Hall Hotel and Spa, ShrewsburySet in 15 acres, the hotel is away from it all offering a relaxing time for a spa day or break after shopping and sightseeing in medieval Shrewsbury. www.mercure.com


Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel and Spa, WhitchurchPure indulgence, treat yourself to a soothing hot stone massage or invigorating swim in the 20m pool then take it easy in the thermal suite or their luxurious candlelit treatment rooms. www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk

Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa, Welsh BordersImagine yourself inside a 25,000 acre estate with spectacular views over Lake Vyrnwy and the fringes of Snowdonia...you are here to relax in style and pamper yourself. www.lakevyrnwy.com

Relax and unwind at a wide choice of luxury spas.


Virgin Balloons

Sports and Adventure CoursesOutdoor activities galore to test your nerve, from a challenge on the adventure rope to canoeing down the River Severn, hot air ballooning, falconry, rafting and more.

CyclingTry a tandem for two, a group bike experience or take a solo bike ride along trails and routes across the county. Leafy lanes to trails or try some of the best off road courses within less than 20 minutes.

Championship Golf CoursesTee off at one of 30 golf courses including where Sandy Lyle practised at Hawkstone Park, voted 18th favourite in the world, and picturesque Patshull Park.

Edge of adventure

Shropshire rocks with activities high in skies or at ground level. Creative, outdoor, indulgent or rewarding the area is a treasure trove of exciting activities whatever the event.


Walking3,500 miles of footpaths including the 210 mile Severn Way and the breathtaking Shropshire Hills ideal for hill and fell walking from Cardingmill Valley and The Wrekin.

Horse RidingOver 20 equestrian centres and lots of bridleways to choose from.

27The Wrekin


The Old Orleton

With so much to do why not stay a little longer and make a weekend of it. Stylish country house hotels, stately homes, contemporary town centre hotels, homely guest houses or get away from it all retreats. We have over 4000 bedrooms and one that is perfect for you.

Stay a little longer

www.visitironbridge.co.uk29

www.visitironbridge.co.uk or www.shropshiretourism.info

Fresh ideas For great Weekend Breaks and Packages visit


April 4th April CBSO – British Classics Concert Theatre Severn

12th - 13th April Midlands Festival of Transport Weston Park

23rd - 26th April Shrewsbury International Cartoon Festival Shrewsbury

May 9th May Baroque Brilliance Concert Theatre Severn

June 1st – 6th June Blood Brothers Theatre Severn

14th June Cosford Air Show RAF Museum Cosford

27th June Play in the ParkMidsummer Night’s Dream Weston Park 27th & 28th June West Mid Show West Midlands Showground

July 16th July Le Grand Cirque Fantazie Theatre Severn

10th - 13th July Wenlock Olympian Games Much Wenlock

Anniversaries, Festivals & Events


18th - 19th July Brass Band Festival Ironbridge

August 15th - 16th AugustShrewsbury Flower Show The Quarry in Shrewsbury

22nd - 23rd August V Music Festival Weston Park

31st August Coracle Regatta Ironbridge Ironbridge

September 11th - 13th September Ludlow International Food Festival Ludlow

19th - 20th September The Midland Game Fair Weston Park

26th September Ironbridge World Heritage Site Festival Ironbridge

October 23rd - 25th October Bridgnorth Jazz FestivalBridgnorth

November 7th November Darwin Firework and Bonfire Spectacular West Midlands Showground

For more 2009 Annniversaries, Festivals and Events Check out www.visitironbridge.co.uk

Shropshire rocks whatever the time of year with over 300 festivals and events. Here’s just a taster of what you can enjoy in 2009

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ShrewsburyTel: 01743 281200Fax: 01743 281213Email: [email protected]

TelfordTel: 01952 238008Fax: 01952 291723Email: [email protected]

BridgnorthTel: 01746 763257Fax: 01746 766625Email: [email protected]

Church StrettonTel: 01694 723133Fax: 01694 723045Email: [email protected]

EllesmereTel/Fax: 01691 622981Email: [email protected]

IronbridgeTel/Fax: 01952 884391Email: [email protected]

LudlowTel: 01584 875053Fax: 01584 877931Email: [email protected]

Market DraytonTel: 01630 653114Fax: 01630 652226Email: [email protected]

Much WenlockTel/Fax: 01952 727679Email: [email protected]

Oswestry TownTel: 01691 662753Fax: 01691 657811Email: [email protected]

WhitchurchTel: 01948 664577Fax: 01948 665432Email: [email protected]

Visitor information centresFor friendly assistance and advice on accommodation, things to see and do and much more contact one of our TIC’s.

www.shropshiretourism.co.uk

Enjoy your stay Check out our Special Discount Vouchers


telford-shropshire.com

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Documents

Telford & Shropshire Delegate Guide 09