Shropshire perfectly captures the rural English idyll of open moors, gentle, heather-clad hills, postcard perfect farming villages, good food and peace and quiet. This is wonderful countryside to explore at your own pace, and our Gurus have plucked their recommendations for the best places to say in Shropshire from the region’s pretty centres: Tudor Shrewsbury, industrial Ironbridge, and foodie favourite Ludlow, as well as from more rural spots within the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or just pretty rural villages. In Shropshire we favour a pub or restaurant with rooms, historic country house escapes, and rural escapes.
If you fancy a spot of Shropshire sightseeing, Shrewsbury castle and abbey are good places to start, and the medieval market town’s charms deserve a closer look. Amidst the timbered Tudor houses and winding lanes leading down to the River Severn you can see the birthplace of Charles Darwin, the Old Market Hall, and Henry Tudor House, where Henry VII stayed before the Battle of Bosworth. Ironbridge is almost the polar opposite to Shrewsbury’s timber, a town of industrial discovery and all that entails, including the world’s first iron bridge. If you’re here to taste Shropshire’s wares, one of the best places to stay in Shropshire is Ludlow, with its independent grocers, bakers, butchers, cheesemongers, and corresponding restaurateurs.
If it’s the scenery, and the promise of a rural escape you’re travelling towards, the best places to stay in Shropshire may well be close to the Welsh border, or dotted around the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or in the surrounding towns and villages. There are many, many wonderful walking routes. There are also a very healthy number of National Trust properties in Shropshire, plus a falconry centre and the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford, which is a fantastic day out for families.
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Shropshire
A historic 17th-century restaurant with rooms. Rooms are individually styled but each is packed full of character with oak beams and brass or four-poster beds. The award-winning restaurant serves exemplary five-course dinners and aperitifs are served beforehand by the fire. A cosy foodie getaway.
Shropshire
Adventurous-minded couples and singles will enjoy the blissful tranquility, beautiful bucolic scenery and glamping options of this wonderful farmhouse. Sleep in a yurt, horsebox, hut or farmhouse bedroom. Child-free.
Ludlow (Ludlow)
A pretty red brick country inn boasting a spectacular setting amidst the 8000-acre Oakly Park Estate. Interiors are contemporary rural with exposed beams, chequered blankets, & some rooms with freestanding tubs. The restaurant is the real lure with modern British fare. Laidback rural perfection.
Shrewsbury
A charming owner-run Inn set in the quaint village of Upton Magna. The five rooms are individually styled and boast oak wood furnishings, modern bathrooms and deep-pile carpeting. The restaurant, Basil's, is the real show stopper offering award winning contemporary British cuisine.
Shropshire (Bridgnorth)
A community run pub in a pretty Shropshire village. Three simply styled rooms feature white washed walls, crisp white linen and contemporary bathrooms. A fantastic restaurant offers up hearty British cuisine prepared with finesse. A delightful spot for a country escape.
Shropshire (Wem)
A splendid Elizabethan manor located in rural Shropshire. Steeped in history (it features oak panelling from the 1400s), romantic, atmospheric, yet comfortable and hospitable. Highly recommended for a country getaway with self catering cottages for those who prefer more flexibility.
Shropshire (Iron Bridge)
Immaculate intimate B&B on the banks of the River Seven and walking distance from the historical sites and gastro pubs of Ironbridge. Light, contemporary rooms exude comfort as does the sitting room and well kept garden. Conveniently sited and decorated with skill and taste, a truly memorable stay.
Shropshire (Shropshire)
A charming rural Inn complete with three recently constructed contemporary garden rooms. The main property is traditional in style with an atmospheric restaurant complete with an old cider press and sunny conservatory. A quiet and picturesque spot for countryside breaks.
Shropshire
Comfortable country hotel in a charming Shropshire town, with stunning views - reminiscent of a French hilltop village. The 12 bedrooms are contemporary in style. Downstairs you'll find bars, dining room and a glorious garden & terrace for balmy summer days.
Shrewsbury (Shropshire)
This property, dating back to 16th century is located in Shrewsbury's historic centre. It is where old meets new: exposed oak beams and flagstone floors juxtaposed with retro metal chairs. Rooms are light and airy with wrought iron beds and Louis XI print throws. Prebook a table at the restaurant!
Shropshire (Bishop's Castle)
A charming country house boasting a secluded setting in a pretty part of Shropshire. Traditionally dressed rooms are cosy and unfussy. The atmospheric restaurant offers an exemplary à la carte and tasting menu and there's plenty to keep everyone occupied in the surrounding area.
Ludlow (Shropshire)
An elegant B&B situated in the Shropshire hills just outside Ludlow. The five bedrooms are individually decorated and all boast luxurious touches including Egyptian cotton linens and walk in wet rooms. Lovely mature gardens and stunning panoramic views. The perfect base for local exploring.
Shrewsbury (Shrewsbury)
A stunning 17th century castle set in 17 acres of picturesque parkland. Atmospheric bedrooms are filled with heavy antique furniture, traditional paintings and chandeliers. Elegant reception rooms, a fantastic restaurant and rural setting make this an ideal wedding venue or country escape.
Shropshire (Shropshire)
An elegant Georgian townhouse oozing period charm, in the heart of historic Bishop's Castle. With its blend of vintage furniture, bold colours, and quirky artwork, the interiors feel both cosy and stylish. There's a peaceful garden, a hearty breakfast and easy local access. Character meets comfort.
Shropshire (Rhydycroesau)
Resting in a valley on the Wales/England border is a country house hideaway ideal of nature lovers. Glorious views, comfort and antique furnishings make up the large rooms. Breakfast in bed, or on the terrace, is the perfect way to start your day in the green green grasses of Shropshire.
Ludlow (Ludlow)
An imposing town house located in the historic market town of Ludlow. Traditionally dressed rooms feature antique furniture, high ceilings and large sash windows draped with heavy curtains. The restaurant is worthy of a visit alone and the surrounding region has plenty to do.
Shropshire (Shropshire )
A stunning historic abbey set on the shores of a pristine lake. The north wing houses two guest rooms both of epic proportions and opulence. The best is entirely oak panelled and the other boasts an enormous bath with beautiful views. A grown up space for a country escape.
Ludlow (Ludlow)
This stunning refurbished Shropshire farmhouse, expertly blends old with new. Some rooms come with four-poster beds and all have modern bathrooms. Enjoy meals in the elegant dining room over the weekend. This 18th-century getaway is a great choice for a quiet country retreat!
