History and Beauty of Ironbridge FEATURE

Known throughout the world as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, Ironbridge is now a tranquil town full of quaint shops, cafes, and museums that visitors continue to enjoy all year round. Its charming maze of steep, narrow streets that merge with patches of woodland are ideal for walkers.

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Set in a beautiful wooded valley in the heart of Shropshire, Ironbridge is situated a few miles away from the new town of Telford (named after the famous civil engineer Thomas Telford, designer of innovative new roads, bridges, canals, and aqueducts). Known throughout the world as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, Ironbridge is now a tranquil town full of quaint shops, cafes, and museums that visitors continue to enjoy all year round. Its charming maze of steep, narrow streets that merge with patches of woodland are ideal for walkers. Or for nature-lovers, how about a gentle stroll alongside the River Severn?

The famous Iron Bridge which crosses the River Severn was built by the famous English ironmaster Abraham Darby the Third. Finished in 1779, it is the world's first ever iron bridge, and remains one of the great symbols of the Industrial Revolution.

Apart from the great Iron Bridge, many visitors are attracted to the magnificent Victorian themed museums operated by the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust. With 10 museums to visit, it's a good idea to visit the ticket office and buy a Passport Ticket which will give you unlimited daytime access to all of the museums for a whole year.

The world-class Blists Hill Victorian Town is not simply a museum, it's a living insight into Victorian life. Change your modern money into old pounds, shillings, and pence, and mingle with performers in period dress as you roam the streets and enjoy the various shops, cafes, and workshops.

The whole family can enjoy the Enginuity museum - the interactive Design and Technology Centre where you can have hands-on experience with all types of machinery and devices. Discover the giant X ray machine, and challenge the robotic arm! It's not only fun for children of all ages - it's educational too.

If you like ceramics, you should definitely visit the Coalport China Factory. Coalport china was made here in Ironbridge until 1926. Here, you can experience live demonstrations and even make your own pottery. At the Jackfield Tile Museum, you can also try your hand at decorating your own tiles.

For history lovers, the Museum of Iron and Museum of the Gorge are fascinating insights into the history of Ironbridge. Learn about Abraham Darby the First, the great ironmaster that perfected large-scale iron production that made the development of the steam engine and railways possible.

Visit the Darby Houses and you can actually experience the former homes of the Darby family Rosehill House and Dale House. For more insight into the great Iron Bridge, visit the Iron Bridge exhibition, housed in the original Tollhouse on the bridge's south side.

Ironbridge is also home to the world famous Merrythought Teddy Bear. The factory has been hand-making the quintessential British Teddy Bear since it was established in 1930. After a brief closure in 2006, the factory reopened in 2007 due to worldwide public demand. This could be the perfect place to visit if you're looking for a gift for that special someone.

If you want a place to visit that has a rich history, beautiful scenery, and attractions for all the family, Ironbridge has it all. There's always plenty to do all year round in this beautiful English town.

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