70+ Budget-Friendly & Fun Things To Do In Shrewsbury!

Prefer listening over reading? We got you covered! Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

The relaxed little town of Shrewsbury is a beautiful place to explore. A historic mediaeval settlement in Shropshire, Shrewsbury is tucked away among the gently sloping Shropshire Hills and only some miles from the Welsh border.

With many entertaining things to do in Shrewsbury spread out throughout the town, it’s the kind of destination that’s ideal for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Despite having the appearance of a sleepy village with a rural setting, Shrewsbury actually has a lot going on and offers a wealth of hidden gems.

Encased by a loop on the River Severn, this market town will capture your heart with its mediaeval castles, towers, Tudor homes, and gorgeous Riverside parks.

From ancient museums and historical landmarks to gardens, hills, and many more, we’ll cover some of the best and most exciting things to do in Shrewsbury to keep you engaged. Many of them budget friendly too.

So bookmark this page and don’t forget to include these locations on your list of must-sees while in Shrewsbury. Let’s get started!

Recommended: Eight Shrewsbury Restaurants That Locals Love!

70+ Fun & Unique Things To Do In Shrewsbury: No More Boredom!

1. Sabrina Boat

When you’re in Shropshire and want to take a boat trip on the River Severn, check out Sabrina Boat. It is the perfect way to get away from it and enjoy peace. The boats have everything you’ll need for a relaxing trip down the river, including snacks.

You’ll travel through the beautiful countryside and see historic castles. There are also plenty of stops where you can get out and explore.

2. The Quarry

If you like to learn about history, you’ll probably love The Quarry Park. This park is a former limestone quarry, and it’s now preserved as an open-air museum where visitors can explore the remains of the mining operations and learn more about life in the area during that period.

You’ll also be able to see some of the machinery used by miners and learn how they extracted limestone from deep underground using machines like trams and cranes.

3. Shrewsbury Castle

Shrewsbury Castle is one of the most impressive castles in England. It’s a fantastic place to visit if you’re looking for a day trip out away from London or Birmingham and want to see something truly spectacular.

The castle features massive stone walls and towers, the oldest part being built in 1086. Today, there are remains of those original structures, and the walls are up to six feet thick.

4. Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery

This is an excellent spot for a fun and educational experience. The museum houses various art, including paintings by famous artists.

Many exhibits on ancient civilisations, such as Egypt and Greece, are also available. The museum also has an archaeological collection that includes items from Roman Britain, Anglo-Saxon England, and the Islamic World.

5. Shrewsbury Abbey

Shrewsbury Abbey is one of the most iconic buildings in all of England. It served as an important religious centre for many years, but after Henry VIII dissolved the monasteries, it became a parish church until it was destroyed by fire in 1588.

Today you can still see parts of the original walls and foundations that remain from when it was built and even some stained glass windows that survived.

6. St Mary’s Church

St. Mary’s Church is perched on the rise in the heart of the ancient town of Shrewsbury and is the only intact, entirely mediaeval church. It has been through several renovations and restorations, and it features an ornate wooden roof, stained glass windows, and a stunning organ.

The church is also available for weddings, so if you’re looking for a venue with some serious history, this might be your place.

7. Shrewsbury Prison

It isn’t a place you want to visit if you’re planning on breaking the law anytime soon, but if you’re up for an adventure, Shrewsbury Prison is worth visiting.

The history of the prison is fascinating, and it’s still operational today. It was initially built as a house for prisoners to be held while they awaited trial and sentencing until it was converted into a prison.

If you’re a history lover and have a curious mind, this will definitely be one of the best things to do in Shrewsbury for you!

8. Shrewsbury Market Hall

Nestled in the heart of Shrewsbury, the Shrewsbury Market Hall bears witness to the centuries-old history of this small town. The building was constructed to be initially used as a fish market. Then, the market hall was renovated and converted into a meat market until it was closed for renovations.

The market hall is full of little stalls with colourful displays and delicious smells. If you’re looking for something specific, like a certain kind of tea or jam, or even if you want to browse, this is the place to go!

9. Saint Chad’s Church

Saint Chad’s Church is worth visiting if you love history and architecture. It is known for its beautiful architecture, which dates back to the 12th century when it was constructed.

The inside of St. Chad’s is relatively small compared to other churches in the area, but it is still excellent and has that oldle-worlde feel. The walls are made of stone blocks, and there are no pews, just wooden benches that face the altar at the front of the room.

10. Theatre Severn

Theatre Severn is a theatre and arts venue in Shrewsbury. It was built on the site of a former cinema and has been a hot spot for plays and musicals ever since.

Theatre Severn offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed play or something more lighthearted like comedy or musical revues, this theatre will have something that suits your tastes.

11. Attingham Park

Attingham Park is a magnificent estate and museum located in Shrewsbury. The park has been privately owned for over 400 years. Now, Attingham park is open to the public as a museum and home to many collections from various eras.

The grounds are vast and include walking trails that take visitors through the park’s forested areas and several gardens. There is also a conservatory within the estate grounds. Visitors can enjoy trees, shrubs, flowers, and other plants worldwide.

12. Haughmond Hill

Haughmond Hill is a good option if you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the scenery without being concerned about other people.

It’s a perfect spot for hikers or those who enjoy walking with their dogs. The hill is home to an Iron Age hillfort, built by the ancient Britons.

13. Battlefield Falconry Centre

The Battlefield Falconry Centre is an unexpected delight. It’s a place to learn about and interact with birds of prey in a safe and educational environment.

This unique attraction offers guests the opportunity to interact with birds of prey in a one-of-a-kind way. You can see these beautiful creatures fly overhead, learn about their natural habitats and behaviours, and even participate in hands-on activities.

14. Hawkstone Park Follies

Located just outside of town, Hawkstone Park Follies features some of the most beautiful gardens you’ll ever see, and if you time it right, you can see them in full bloom during their annual spring show.

Hawkstone Park is a fantasy landscape on a hilltop full of bridges, caves, and towers. There are also winding paths through groves of trees and shrubs planted by famous historical figures.

15. Ditherington Flax Mill

Ditherington Flax Mill used to process flax into linen thread for weaving and manufacturing. The mill served continuously as a mill until it closed due to competition from cheaper imports.

It fell into disrepair over the years but has since been restored and reopened as an arts centre that hosts concerts, festivals, music classes and more.

16. The Shrewsbury Darwin Walk

If you’re in Shrewsbury and looking for a fun, scenic walk, look no further than the Shrewsbury Darwin Walk.

It is a beautiful and peaceful trail through the woods of Shrewsbury. It’s a great way to escape the busy streets of the town and enjoy nature. The walk is named after Charles Darwin, born in this area.

17. Climbing The Walls

Climbing The Walls is a great place to spend your day if you’re looking for something different and exciting to do while visiting the area. Located just outside the city centre, this indoor climbing centre will give you an adventure.

Climbing The Walls has it all, whether you want to get your heart racing or want to try something new. With years of experience as an indoor climbing gym, they’ve got plenty of options for everyone, from beginners to experts.

18. Stiperstones National Nature Reserve

It’s a fantastic place if you want to be outside and take in some natural beauty but want something less strenuous than trekking.

Nestled among the rolling hills of England’s West Midlands, you’ll find the landscape quite diverse. There are areas of rocky outcroppings and wildflowers interspersed with woodland areas where you can enjoy the shade of trees overhead.

19. Soldiers of Shropshire Museum

A trip to the Soldiers of Shropshire Museum is a journey through history. A group of veterans from the armed forces founded the museum to preserve the history of their service.

The museum is filled with artefacts from World War II and beyond, including uniforms, weapons, equipment and letters written by soldiers in battle. You can also see original art by members of the group, who have been working together since 1949.

20. Longner Hall Lodge

The Longner Hall Lodge is a beautiful country house with a long history of hosting royalty and nobility. The Tudor-Gothic-style home, designed in 1803 by John Nash, is situated amid a Humphrey Repton landscaped park.

It has a two-story, asymmetrical L-shaped floor plan, a plain tile roof, and is made of red sandstone ashlar. The primary rooms’ interiors are decorated with stained glass and plaster fan vaulting.

21. Wroxeter Roman City

When taking a Wroxeter Roman City tour, you can’t help but feel like you’re walking through history. The remains of this ancient city are quite literally everywhere you look.

Today, there are many ruins to explore, and you’ll also find many shops selling souvenirs and snacks. There’s even a reconstructed Roman bathhouse that has been turned into a museum where visitors can learn about how daily life was lived thousands of years ago in this part of England.

22. Clivewood Alpacas Farm

If you love animals, or if you’ve ever wanted to get up close and personal with an alpaca, Clivewood Alpacas Farm is the place for you.

Visitors can enjoy a farm tour, which includes feeding the alpacas and learning about them from the helpful employees who will provide you with all sorts of interesting facts about these fantastic creatures.

You’ll also have access to a gift shop where you can purchase alpaca wool products made onsite or other souvenirs. This is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Shrewsbury and the surrounding region!

23. Town Walls Tower

The Town Walls Tower, officially called Wingfield’s Tower, is a Medieval fortified town gate and watchtower built on the city walls of Shrewsbury.

It has stood since Medieval times and was constructed to defend the town from invaders. It is a great place to tour the town and learn about its history.

24. Shrewsbury Cathedral

The Shrewsbury Cathedral is a beautiful example of early Gothic architecture and is an important historical landmark.

The church contains some stunning examples of mediaeval artistry, including stained glass windows, carvings on the pillars and arches, sculptures on the walls and ceilings, and paintings in the chapel of St. Chad’s tomb.

25. The Bog Visitor Centre

The Victorian-styled Bog Visitor Centre, formerly a school, is one of the few structures still standing in the dilapidated community famous for its lead and barite mining.

The Bog Visitor Centre is in a geologically significant location known for the bravery of Wild Edric. It has a staff supported by local volunteers eager to offer their local expertise at any time.

26. Caer Caradoc Hill

The Caer Caradoc Hill is an excellent place for a hike. The hill is a popular spot for photographers, cyclists, and hikers.

Caer Caradoc Hill Trail is the most popular walk on the hill as it offers fantastic views of Shrewsbury Town Centre and the surrounding countryside. The elevation is also not too challenging to hike.

27. Shropshire Falconry

There isn’t a better alternative if you’re seeking something entertaining and unique to do while in Shrewsbury than Shropshire Falconry. Watching the birds soar around you is a lot of joy.

Visiting gives you a chance to come face-to-face with birds of prey in their natural environment. The birds are kept onsite and are used only for educational purposes.

28. Laura’s Tower

Laura’s Tower is a fantastic way to spend a day in Shrewsbury. It’s a 17th-century tower that still stands today and is open to the public, where you can climb up it for amazing views of the town and the surrounding area.

The Tower has been restored since its original construction but retains its medieval feel with stone walls and flagstone floors.

29. Wroxeter Roman Vineyard

Wroxeter Roman Vineyard is just outside Shrewsbury and is a great place to visit if you’re interested in history or wine.

The vineyard was discovered by archaeologists in 1968 and excavated over the next few years. It’s now open to the public, so you can learn all about Roman wine-making techniques and see how they were able to grow grapes in this part of England.

30. Haughmond Abbey Ruins

The ancient abbey at Haughmond is one of the most impressive ruins in Shropshire and one of the best-preserved medieval monasteries in Europe.

Built between 1133 and 1138, it was a wealthy abbey that hosted many royal visitors over the years. Haughmond Abbey Ruins was also known as a place of healing and learning.

31. Hawks on Walks

Shrewsbury is the perfect place to observe some of the most beautiful birds in the world – hawks. This small town has been home to hawks for hundreds of years, and it’s easy to see why once you’ve been there.

You’ll see everything from Harris’s hawks and kestrels to buzzards and peregrine falcons. You’ll also learn about what makes each species unique.

32. Lord Hill’s Column

One of the most famous structures in the English town of Shrewsbury is Lord Hill’s Column, located outside the Shirehall.

The Column stands at 133 ft. and 6 inches high, the tallest Doric column in England. It honours Rowland Hill, 1st Viscount Hill of Almaraz and Hawkstone, with a 17 ft. tall statue of Lord Hill perched atop the Column. Local Grinshill stone was used to carve the Column, while Coade stone was used to create the sculpture of Lord Hill.

33. Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings

The internationally significant Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings, located just outside the town centre, is a reminder of a time when Shropshire was a global leader in engineering.

The area is home to eight remarkable structures with a fascinating history, including the 1797 Main Mill, the forerunner of skyscrapers. A new tourist experience, café, shop, offices, and venue space will be unveiled at this recently restored industrial mill and old maltings.

34. Greenhous Meadow

If you’re a sports enthusiast, Greenhous Meadow – home of Shrewsbury FC – is a place you should visit.

If you’re a football fan, then visiting and watching a game will definitely be one of the best things to do in Shrewsbury for you!

35. Coleham Pumping Station

The Coleham Pumping Station is a Victorian steam-powered pumping station built in 1883 to pump water from the River Severn into the canal system. It is one of the few functioning examples in the UK and has been restored by volunteers.

Today, the building houses an interactive museum where you can learn about life at this pumping station through artefacts like tools used by workers daily.

36. The Parade Shops

If you want a shopping centre that combines the best of the traditional with the fun and modern, look no further than The Parade Shops.

There are many shops and restaurants within the centre that you can explore. Many options are available if you need specific clothing or food.

37. Hollywood Bowl Shrewsbury

Hollywood Bowl Shrewsbury is a great place to visit if you want an authentic English experience. It is the only place in England where you can find Hollywood-themed bowling alleys, so it’s worth a stop, regardless of whether you’re a fan of bowling or not.

It also has other activities that will keep you entertained for hours. You can play pool and video games in the arcade or enjoy some live music at their live music venue on weekends. This is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Shrewsbury!

38. Abbey Gardens

Abbey Gardens is a beautiful park that can be found along the banks of the River Severn. It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for an afternoon full of peace or want quality time with your family.

While you’re there, you can visit the ruins of an abbey and see where monks used to live. You can also stroll through the garden, landscaped with plants native to England.

39. The Shrewsbury Mystery Treasure Trail

This trail is an excellent recommendation if you’re looking for a fun day out. The Shrewsbury Mystery Treasure Trail is an immersive treasure hunt in Shrewsbury.

The trail takes you through the town and its old buildings and cemeteries, where you’ll find hints that will lead you to hidden treasures. You’ll also learn about Shrewsbury’s history and some of the town’s most famous residents.

40. The Quarry Swimming and Fitness Centre

If you want a place to swim, get fit, and have fun this summer, look no further than The Quarry Swimming and Fitness Centre. It’s a small swimming centre, but it has everything you need, from a pool, a sauna, showers, lockers and much more.

There are plenty of spots to lounge on the pool deck or in one of the hot tubs. You can also rent out their private rooms to have an intimate gathering with friends or family. It’s open all year round, so it’s a great place to escape the winter chill.

41. SuperCamps

If you’re looking for a fun, engaging summer camp for children in the UK, look no further than SuperCamps of Shrewsbury High Prep School. Their camp counsellors are trained professionals who love working with kids and helping them have fun while learning new skills.

The camps provide a range of activities, such as pottery making, archery, athletics, and more. They also have various options for parents, including the chance to stay with their children during the camp.

42. Cineworld Shrewsbury

Cineworld Shrewsbury is a movie theatre that makes it easy to catch the latest blockbusters. This cinema offers a wide variety of films, including 3D and 4K screenings.

They also offer reserved seating, so you won’t have to worry about being late or finding an open seat. You can even get your tickets online and print them out at home.

43. Shropshire Wildlife Trust

Shropshire Wildlife Trust is the place to go if you want to see a wide variety of animals in their natural habitat. The park features over 100 acres of beautiful green space. The paths meander through the park and are perfect for a stroll with friends or family.

Several spots have benches where you can sit and enjoy sights and sounds. It’s also excellent for kids to run around and play with friends. There’s something for everyone here. This park offers plenty of things, from children to adults, dog walkers to bird watchers.

44. Little Rascals Play Centre

Little Rascals Play Centre is a fantastic destination for families with young children. The play centre allows children to explore and play in a safe environment while parents can also relax and enjoy themselves.

Little Rascals Play Centre has plenty of indoor and outdoor activities for kids, including a soft play area, ball pit, slides and climbing frames. Children can also engage in various arts and crafts activities throughout their visit.

45. Button & Bear Bookshop

Shrewsbury is the home of Button & Bear Bookshop, a sweet little treasure trove of books you won’t miss. The shop has a cosy atmosphere that makes it feel like your favourite library.

It’s clean, bright, and well-lit with an old-fashioned vibe that feels like it could be straight out of Harry Potter. There are wooden shelves filled with books ranging from contemporary to historical fiction, children’s books to biographies. There’s even some poetry thrown in for good measure.

46. SUP Shrewsbury

There’s one thing that Shrewsbury is especially famous for, Stand-Up Paddleboarding.

The waters are serene, perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. And there are areas along the shore where you can put your board down and have lunch or maybe hang out on the beach with friends after taking a break from paddling around in circles.

When it comes to fun things to do in Shrewsbury, this has to be one of our favourites.

47. The Adventure Rope Course

It’s time to get your climb on! Located just outside Shrewsbury, the Adventure Rope Course is great for kids and adults to let off some steam. There’s something for everyone with two different courses, one for kids and one for adults.

The ropes course is great for families looking to spend the day together having fun. With high-ropes, low-ropes, and balance beams, there are plenty of challenges for even the most experienced adventurers.

48. The Dotty Dog Gallery

If you want something different than what you’ll find at other galleries in town, or even if you’re looking for something educational about history or art, make sure to stop by The Dotty Dog Gallery when you’re visiting.

The walls are full of paintings, sculptures, and drawings by Shropshire artists and makers who have displayed their work here over the years. The pieces range from whimsical to severe and represent various styles and techniques.

49. Shrewsbury Flower Show

If you love flowers, then you should check out the Shrewsbury Flower Show. The show takes place at the Shrewsbury Flower Showground in Shropshire. It’s been going on for decades and has become an essential flower show in the UK.

The showground is next to the River Severn, so expect beautiful views of water and rollig hills. The grounds also include a variety of flowers that people have planted, which you may view while strolling around.

50. Shrewsbury Canoe Hire

Shrewsbury Canoe Hire is a small canoe rental shop offering canoes for rent, kayaks, and paddleboards. The company’s goal is to provide people with an easy way to enjoy the river, and they’ve been going strong ever since.

It is the best place to start if you’ve never tried canoeing. Not only will you enjoy the beauty of the river and its wildlife, but you’ll also get to see some fantastic castles and beautiful gardens along the way.

20 More Fun Things To Do In Shrewsbury

We’ve already talked about the most popular places and activities to do in Shrewsbury, from visiting ancient museums and churches to exploring various parks and gardens.

However, with the abundance of things to do in Shrewsbury, we’re going to get into some of the lesser-known treasures of Shrewsbury that are equally fun to do that you may want to add to your itinerary on your next visit.

• Get a glimpse of Shropshire history at Shropshire Archives
• Unleash your creativity at The Hive Music and Media (HMM) Arts Centre
• Say your prayers at Shrewsbury Unitarian Church
• Visit the historical landmark of Robert Clive at the Clive of India Statue
• Watch exciting performances at Get Your Wigle On
• Fill your eyes with visual arts at Van Gallery
• Relive the past as you take a walk at the Cantlop Bridge
• Learn about wine and try wine and gin tasting at Shropshire Wine School
• Have your beauty and massage treatments at Thai Serenity & Soul
• Buy locally-sourced high-quality products at the Farm Shop of Battlefield 1403
• Be thrilled throwing axes within the lumberjack-themed setting of TimberJacks Shrewsbury
• Book a relaxing stay in the log cabins and experience pony trekking at Long Mountain Centre
• Dine-in for a delicious melee of all-vinyl DJs, cocktail mastery, and freshly prepared food at Albert & Co Frankville
• Treat yourself to a well-deserved spa at Tootsies
• Take your family to the most exciting jump experience at Jump In Trampoline Parks Shrewsbury.
• Get lost in Alice’s adventures in Wonderland-inspired champagne bar, Ten & Six.
• Drink your cocktails at Blind Tiger
• Relax, unwind, and have the perfect antidote to modern-day life at The Bannatyne Health Club & Spa Shrewsbury
• Feel the nightlife vibe in Shrewsbury at The Buttermarket
• Experience a brilliant weekend golf trip at Hawkstone Park Hotel Golf Course