Shropshire

Photo of Shropshire
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Photo of Shropshire
Credit: Flickr user David Edwards
Photo of Shropshire
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About Shropshire

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.

The Best Places to Stay in Shropshire

For a Country House Hotel

  • Soulton Hall is a very splendid, Elizabethan-era manor house steeped in romance and history, and now converted into a comfortable country escape, with four rather romantic bedrooms in the main house, and four self-catering cottages in the grounds. Inside the manor guests will discover oak panelling dating from the 15th century, stone mullioned windows, and ancient plasterwork; these old floorboards may well have been trodden upon by Samuel Pepys — he was a friend of the family who still own the manor. It’s been run as a hotel for around 30 years, and it’s certainly a place to return to over and over again. Expect a daily changing menu, sumptuous decor and lovely walks in picturesque grounds.

For a Rural Escape

  • Kinton Escapes is a child-free glamping retreat on the edge of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Set on a farm, the accommodation is in a yurt, a horse box, hut, or bedroom within the farmhouse. Whatever you opt for you can expect serenity and bucolic scenery aplenty. Each of the spaces is cosily decorated, with wonderfully practical and welcoming attention to detail, including wood burners in winter. Take magical walks right from your door.
  • The North Wing at Combermere Abbey is a stunningly preserved abbey just metres from the shore of a mirror-like lake. The north wing has just two guest rooms, both huge, and beautifully decorated. The grander features oak panelling, and the second has an enormous bath with incredible views. There’s a guest lounge too, and you’re welcome to explore the grounds. There’s no restaurant, but they offer breakfast.
  • Ludlow’s Old Downton Lodge is a wonderfully refurbished farmhouse, where the new additions and updates have been expertly blended with the original building with all its quirks and charm. There are nine rooms and suites, in a range of shapes and sizes — the largest have high ceilings and four-poster beds, and all of them have new bathrooms. The Downton Gorge National Nature Reserve is on your doorstep, if you fancy a walk, and come the weekend they offer meals in the elegant dining room.

For Families

  • The Clive Arms in Ludlow is a pretty country inn on the 8000 acre Oakly Park Estate, with a boxy red-brick facade. The pub is bright, cheerful, and more chi-chi than you’re probably expecting, and serves modern British cuisine. The 17 rooms and suites are channelling rural charm, with just the right amount of wooly tartan and chintz. There are very comfortable family rooms, and free-standing baths if you fancy one.

For Walkers

  • The Castle Hotel was reworked from an old motte-and-baillie castle, using the original grey stone and enclosed courtyard. There are 12 rooms and suites, and, despite being called a hotel, it’s also got an excellent pub, which for some is the main event. It’s a rustic old pub too, with a warren of small rooms and bars, a panelled dining room and a lovely beer garden. The rooms themselves are uncontroversially contemporary, with bathrooms that are new and smart. Walking routes start right from the doorstep.
  • The Coach House is a very charmingly rustic country house turned hotel, close to the Welsh border. It’s more of a converted farmhouse than a grand manor, but warm, and welcoming, and picturesque still. Its seven rooms, and communal areas, are traditionally decorated, making the most of the original exposed beams and pitched ceilings, and there’s an atmospheric restaurant too. Peaceful.
  • The Graig is a charming stone farmhouse turned five room B&B, in a great location in the Shropshire Hills, just outside Ludlow. The individually designed rooms all have a country feel, and a cosy, pastel palette, and boast spacious en suites. Breakfast is a hearty affair, and the owners will pack you a lunch too, if you’re heading out walking.

Best Pubs and Restaurants with Rooms

  • Sebastians is an award-winning restaurant with rooms that has been converted from a 17th century building in Oswestry. You can expect beamed ceilings in all of the six bedrooms, along with fireplaces and pitched roofs. The decoration leans towards the period as well, with brass beds and heavy oak furniture. Downstairs in the restaurant guests can expect five-course dinners, with the full service of aperitifs beforehand, and a cosy fire afterwards.
  • The Pheasant at Neenton is a charming country pub in the pretty Shropshire village of Neenton. Welcoming and cosy, as well as three rooms, The Pheasant also has a very good restaurant. Come here for hearty British fare, crisp, white linens and a fond welcome for pets.

For Romantics

  • Shrewsbury’s The Lion & Pheasant is a 16th century building, housing an innovative interior, with a very cool, 2 AA Rosette awarded restaurant, a chic bar, and 19 stylishly minimalist rooms — with original features and wrought iron beds. The exposed beams, flagstones, and whitewash feel bright and lively here, and there’s a nice collection of antiques and a friendly welcome. The restaurant has a taste for local produce — as local as The Lion’s garden if possible, and the location is great for exploring the region.
  • In a stunning setting, on 17 acres of its own picturesque parklands, sits Rowton Castle, a 17th century built charmer, complete with towers, stone crenelations and Gothic details. Inside, the 19 rooms and suites are decorated with antique luxury, and feature chandeliers, heavy, dark wood furniture, and sumptuous four-poster beds. The reception rooms and restaurant are grand, and the food is excellent.
  • The Dinham Hall Hotel is an imposing townhouse hotel in the historic market town of Ludlow. Its 13 rooms and suites are all traditionally, and uniquely, decorated, with antiques to match the high ceilings, sash widows and other original details. The restaurant is very good — competition in Ludlow is high — and you’re close to a farmer’s market, a golf course, and plenty of sightseeing and antique shopping opportunities. Bring your dog too.

For the Views

  • The Baron at Bucknell is a charming inn, set just within the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, close to Bucknell and the River Redlake, and surrounded by picturesque countryside. The inn itself is a traditional choice with a feature ancient flour mill, and a cosy, wood-heavy bar. Upstairs are five rooms and suites, but The Baron also has three newly built garden rooms, which are like private contemporary lodges, with cosy fires and wonderful views.
  • Pen-y-Dyffryn is right on the border between England and Wales, with views over the Shropshire Hills in all directions. When you arrive you’ll be offered a complimentary afternoon tea, and each morning there are different walking routes recommended, weather reports and other local titbits. The 12 rooms aren’t cutting edge, but the hospitality couldn’t be better, with hearty breakfasts and very good four-course suppers.

For Great Value.

  • The Haughmond is a charming local inn in the pretty village of Upton Magna, just outside Shrewsbury. The restaurant is much more exciting than your average pub restaurant, it’s headed up by the owner, who has won many gongs for his contemporary British cuisine. There are five guest rooms, simply decorated with solid, pale-wood furniture, and with a range of doubles and twins.

Best B&Bs

  • Converted from a library building, The Library House is a stylish, four room B&B, by the banks of the River Severn, and within a very short, pleasant stroll of the pubs and historic sites of Ironbridge. The four rooms are very light, and simply and comfortably decorated. Guests also have use of the charming sitting room, shady garden, and breakfast room.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

  • If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Manchester Airport is probably your closest international airport, though East Midlands Airport and Birmingham are worth considering too. If you’re flying into the UK and visiting Shropshire first, it might be convenient to head for Heathrow, London City Airport, or London Luton Airport. If you’re travelling by train out of London it’s about three hours journey, leaving from London Euston.
  • If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
  • Shropshire’s climate is mild, but unpredictably British. Generally speaking winter is wetter and cooler; add to that the shorter days and it’s not the best time to visit. Spring and summer are the most popular seasons for tourists. Autumn, especially September, is also usually sunny and warm, and will be a lot quieter than during the school holidays. It’s a nice time for a short walking break, or holing up somewhere to write your novel.

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The best hotels in Shropshire

Sebastians
Sebastians

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.

  • Foodies - The award-winning restaurant serves a five-course monthly changing menu in an atmospheric dining room
  • Active Holiday - Get out into the countryside and hike, cycle, or horse ride
  • Sights nearby - Visit the Old Oswestry Hill Fort, built during the Iron Ages, and still one of the country's best preserved
  • Great walks - Hike along the Offa's Dyke Path which follows the English/Welsh border for 177 miles
from CA$151 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Kinton Escapes
Kinton Escapes

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.

  • Local exploring - Kinton Escapes is the perfect base for exploring the wonders and sights of Shropshire and Wales
  • Country Escape - Unplug from technology and relax by the fire with a good book and a glass of wine
  • Minimum Stay - Two night minimum stay
  • No restaurant
from CA$151 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Clive Arms
The Clive Arms

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.

  • Foodies - The restaurant is the focal point with good modern British fare served, and much of the produce sourced within 3 miles
  • Country Escape - Expect interiors offering modern comforts with a cosy traditional feel, hearty food, and beautiful walking country
  • Romantic Break - For couples, pick one of the rooms with an in-room freestanding bathtub
  • Sights nearby - There are several stately homes and castles in the area to visit including Croft Castle and Ludlow Castle
from CA$155 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Haughmond
The Haughmond

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.

  • Foodies - The award winning fine dining restaurant is headed by the owner and is worthy of a visit alone.
  • Sights nearby - Make a trip to the nearby Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site.
  • Great walks - Take long walks in the National Trust’s Attingham Park.
  • Full of character
from CA$160 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Pheasant at Neenton
The Pheasant at Neenton

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.

  • Country Escape - A rural inn set in picturesque countryside and playing host to a fantastic restaurant.
  • Great walks - Discover the Shropshire Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the World Heritage Site of Ironbridge Gorge.
  • Full of character
from CA$160 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Soulton Hall
Soulton Hall

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.

  • Birdwatching - At least 83 varieties of field birds can be found in the surrounding countryside
  • Great walks - Great walks from the front door
  • Restaurant - Daily changing menu
  • Views
from CA$167 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Library House
The Library House

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.

  • Total relaxation - An extremely comfortable and laid back B&B, enjoy long evenings by the fire and afternoons on the terrace.
  • Sights nearby - Shrewsbury Castle and Ludlow Castle are driving distance and worth a visit.
  • Great walks - The Wrekin offers great walks and stunning views.
  • Full of character
from CA$169 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Baron at Bucknell
The Baron at Bucknell

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.

  • Romantic Break - The contemporary and secluded garden rooms are ideal for couples.
  • Country Escape - A rural inn set in picturesque Shropshire countryside.
  • Great walks - Explore the picturesque walking trails that start straight from the hotel.
  • Birdwatching - Find a host of species in the area including Red Kites and Buzzards.
from CA$169 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Castle Hotel, Shropshire
The Castle Hotel, Shropshire

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.

  • Sights nearby - You are spoilt for choice for things to do including characterful towns, ancient castles and bountiful gardens.
  • Restaurant - Hearty modern pub grub. Eat in any of the three bars or the oak panelled dining room.
  • Great walks - Great walks straight from the door plus the South Shropshire Way and Offa's Dyke
  • Spa - Comprehensive range of in-house treatments which are available on request.
from CA$169 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Lion & Pheasant
The Lion & Pheasant

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!

  • Local markets - The fantastic food markets and Michelin star restuarants of Ludlow are a must visit.
  • Sights nearby - St.Chads Church, Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery, Attingham Park are all close by.
  • Sailing - Boat tours along the picturesque River Severn can be arranged.
  • Great walks - Meandre through The Quarry's scenic 29 acres.
from CA$185 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Coach House
The Coach House

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.

  • Country Escape - Great food and a beautiful tranquil setting.
  • Great walks - Find beautiful walking trails starting straight from the property.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the Bronze Age Mitchell's Fold Stone Circle.
  • Full of character
from CA$187 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Graig
The Graig

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.

  • Foodies - Although The Graig does not serve dinners, Ludlow is renowned for its excellent retaurants and annual Food Festival
  • Local exploring - The Graig is ideally located for exploring Ludlow and the surrounding countryside.
  • Great walks - The Graig is located on the edge of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Beauty, which has a wide range of great walks
  • Sights nearby - You're just 3 miles from historic Ludlow
from CA$205 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Rowton Castle
Rowton Castle

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.

  • Weddings - The elegant reception rooms, stunning setting and experienced staff make this an ideal wedding venue.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the nearby Wattlesborough Castle dating back to the 13th century.
  • Great walks - take relaxing strolls through the parkland and surrounding woods.
  • Romantic
from CA$221 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Bank House
Bank House

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.

  • Local exploring - Set in the heart of Bishop’s Castle, it’s the perfect base for strolling quaint streets and discovering Shropshire's charm
  • Great walks - For a scenic adventure, explore the Shropshire Hills with endless trails, including Offa’s Dyke and the Long Mynd
  • Total relaxation - Enjoy cosy rooms, a lush garden, and peaceful countryside views, ideal for unwinding with a book and a pot of tea
  • Sights nearby - History lovers can explore nearby ancient landmarks like Mitchell’s Fold stone circle or Bury Ditches hill fort
from CA$192 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Pen-y-Dyffryn
Pen-y-Dyffryn

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.

  • Foodies - From the pan-fried wood pigeon to the Pantysgawn goat’s cheese mousse the ever changing menu will never fail to satisfy.
  • Hideaway - In room massages, Daffodil filled walks along the river and long evenings by the fire- hard to get away!
  • Sights nearby - Within 25 minutes there are four major National Trust Houses (Powis Castle, Chirk Castle, Attingham Hall and Erdigg House)
  • Fishing - Many rivers such as the Seven, Wye and Teme spread across Shropshire, Worcestershire and Herefordshire.
from CA$242 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Dinham Hall Hotel
Dinham Hall Hotel

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.

  • Local exploring - Set in a beautiful market town, the whole region offers numerous cultural and outdoor activities.
  • Great walks - Take long walks through the picturesque Mortimer Forest.
  • Local markets - Peruse the famers market in Ludlow's Market Square.
  • Sights nearby - Take a tour of the neighbouring Ludlow Castle.
from CA$258 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The North Wing at Combermere Abbey
The North Wing at Combermere Abbey

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.

  • Country Escape - A touch of the very good life in a beautiful and wonderfully quiet rural spot.
  • Birdwatching - The 143-acre lake that the property stands by plays host to numerous birds.
  • Great walks - Take long walks through the abbey parkland.
  • Restrictions on children - No children under 16
from CA$267 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Old Downton Lodge
Old Downton Lodge

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!

  • Foodies - Enjoy locally sourced seasonal produce crafted into an innovative and creative tasting menu by their award winning chef
  • Back to Nature - With Downton Gorge National Nature Reserve on your doorstep, this is the perfect spot to get back in touch with nature
  • Country Escape - Old Downton Lodge is the ideal place to rejuvenate far away from the hustle and bustle of modern life
  • Fishing - Ludlow has plenty of top fishing spots, head out with Peter Giles, their Advanced Instructor
from CA$347 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia