Whether you prefer to see a cathedral or a museum, we’ve captured Shropshire’s best arts and culture destinations. The Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery is not only home to a thousand wonderful objects that will take you through 650 million years of history – it’s a pretty remarkable building in itself.
Shrewsbury Flower Show is one of the most famous Shropshire events of all, and it takes place every August in The Quarry, where you can also see some of the fantastic gardens designed and planted by the legendary TV gardener, Percy Thrower.
If theatre is more your cup of tea, Shropshire doesn’t disappoint. Visit The Place at Oakengates Theatre, in Telford, which seats just under 500 people, and has a great reputation for presenting an eclectic mix of shows. There’s Theatre Severn in Shrewsbury too – the newest and largest arts venue in the county which sits on Frankwell Quay in a stunning riverside location, and on one of the main gateways into the town.
Our picks
Festival Drayton Centre
Frogmore Rd, Market Drayton TF9 3AX
The Festival Drayton Centre is the jewel in the Market Drayton crown. This multi-purpose venue, owned by the community and run by a dedicated team of volunteers, is unique in offering a focal point for local people and visitors to the town. Why not drop into the friendly and welcoming licensed coffee shop, open six days a week serving refreshments and light lunches? The 200-seat auditorium is the ideal venue to see the latest film, satellite screening or live performance and the gallery provides a space to appreciate the current art exhibition. Visit website
Shrewsbury Cathedral
Cathedral House, 11 Belmont, Shrewsbury SY1 1TE
Shrewsbury Cathedral is a magnificent Gothic cathedral in the heart of Shrewsbury on the medieval Town Walls. Fascinating architecture and stained glass windows by artist Margaret Rope. You are advised to call before you visit. The Orchard Café is open daily for a fresh selection of locally-soured produce and beverages. All home-made in a tranquil and peaceful environment. Visit website
British Ironwork Centre
Whitehall, Aston, Oswestry SY11 4JH
The British Ironwork Centre is Shropshire’s only five-star attraction and is open seven days a week. Explore around 60 acres of sculpture park, take part in a range of experience days, craft workshops and free demonstrations or try a safari buggy or cycle hire. The Forge Cafe offers a wide menu with home-made meals, cakes and coffees with live music every weekend. Visit website
Shrewsbury Folk Festival
Gravel Hill Ln, Shrewsbury SY1 2PF
You can’t talk about festivals in Shropshire without including Shrewsbury Folk Festival, which has a reputation for delivering the very finest folk acts from the UK and around the world to an audience of both experienced folk fans and complete newcomers alike. Visit website
Theatre Severn
Frankwell Quay, Frankwell, Shrewsbury SY3 8FT
The Theatre Severn, in Shrewsbury, is the newest and largest arts venue in the county which sits on Frankwell Quay in a stunning riverside location, and on one of the main gateways into the town. Described by comedian Jason Manford as “easily one of the top five theatres in the country”, it has become a major draw for audiences from all over the Midlands and Wales. Whether it’s a taste of Shakespeare you’re looking for, or the sounds of a touring opera company, or you feel like a really good comedy night out or an evening at the ballet, you’ll find it here. Visit website
