Being home to the modern-day Olympic Games, the world’s first skyscraper and birthplace of Charles Darwin, Shropshire holds a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be explored. Away from the beaten path, these secret spots offer a glimpse into the county’s rich history, stunning natural beauty, and unique experiences. Why not embark on an adventure and uncover the secrets that Shropshire has to offer? You never know what hidden treasures are waiting to be uncovered.
Cave on Caer Caradoc
Church Stretton
Within the rugged beauty of the Shropshire Hills lies Caer Caradoc, a majestic hill with a secret waiting to be discovered.
Venture along its slopes and you'll stumble upon Caractacus' Cave, lying some 25 vertical metres beneath the highest point of Caer Caradoc. The cavern is rumoured to be where Caractacus hid after making a last stand on the hill against the Roman legions during their conquest of Britain.
Flaxmill Maltings
Shrewsbury
Nicknamed the ‘grandparent of skyscrapers’, the Flaxmill Maltings is testament to Shropshire’s industrial heritage. Recognised as the world's first multifloored iron-framed building, this historic site launched a thousand skylines.
Today, this internationally significant site remains somewhat of a hidden gem, offering visitors a glimpse into the past through its well-preserved architecture and informative exhibitions. Step back in time as you explore the corridors of this engineering marvel and uncover the stories of the men and women who toiled within its walls, shaping the course of history.
Tar Tunnel
Ironbridge
Beneath the quaint streets of Ironbridge lies a secret passageway to the past – the Tar Tunnel.
Built in the late 18th century, the Tar Tunnel was originally intended to hold a canal for coal transportation before workers made a surprise discovery of natural bitumen oozing from the walls. This transformed the tunnel’s purpose, shifting from coal transit to bitumen extraction. Open for guided tours, get a glimpse of into the 1,000 yard tunnel going deep into the hillside.
Snailbeach Mine
Shrewsbury
Discover the remnants of Snailbeach Mine, a once-thriving hub of lead mining activity in Shropshire and is still one of the most complete collection of mine building remains in England.
Take an underground guided tour by Shropshire Mines Trust through the old mine tunnels to see how and where the miners used to work. With its rugged beauty and rich history, Snailbeach Mine offers a unique insight into Shropshire's industrial past.
Kerry Vale Vineyard
Pentreheyling
Just a 5 minute drive from Marrington Escapes lies Kerry Vale Vineyard. This family-owned winery offers visitors the chance to sample award-winning wines amidst stunning panoramic views.
Take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards, basking in the serenity of the surroundings, before enjoying a guided tour of the winemaking process. With its warm hospitality and exquisite wines, Kerry Vale Vineyard is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered.
Ellesmere Lakes
Shrewsbury
Enjoy a gentle stroll overlooking The Mere, the largest of Shropshire’s meres at 46 hectares. With it’s gardens, woodland walks, and historic parkland on the edge of Ellesmere, it’s a great place for the whole family to spend a day.
Canoe, kayak and paddle board across the water, or explore Promenade on foot – a great place for wildlife watching. Visit the site where the motte and bailey castle of Ellesmere once stood, a scheduled ancient monument which was destroyed during the English Civil War.
