Ironbridge - Birthplace of the Industrial Revolution and a World Heritage Site
300 years ago in 1709 the Severn Gorge saw the first large scale production of cast iron using a process pioneered by Abraham Darby that made the industrial revolution possible. It was also here that the World’s first Iron Bridge was created to span the River Severn – a true testament to the craftsmanship of the iron-makers and a permanent reminder of Shropshire’s industrial past.
The 10 superb museums of the Ironbridge Gorge will explain all you need to know about industrial Shropshire. The days of coke smelting might be long gone but a visit to Blists Hill Victorian Town will give you a living, breathing insight into life in a Victorian Shropshire town complete with costumed townsfolk carrying out their day to day activities.
En-route to Shrewsbury is Wroxeter Roman City (Viroconium) the third largest Roman city in the UK. Wroxeter also lays claim to being the legendary Camelot – the capital of Arthurian Britain and seat of the real King Arthur.
Nearby is the award winning Wroxeter Roman Vineyard where you can revive the senses with some traditional English (Roman?) wine. Still in the area is Attingham Park, the 18th century regency mansion which vividly recalls the England of Jane Austen.
What next?
Find out more information about Ironbridge at www.ironbridge.info
You can also find out more information about Ironbridge Gorge Museums at www.ironbridge.org.uk
