Trains to Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury is a beautiful market town filled with Tudor houses, an impressive red-bricked castle, and more independent retailers than big-name chains. Take a train to Shrewsbury and discover its rich past and charming landmarks.

Culture and heritage

Lose yourself in Shrewsbury. Encircled by the River Severn, this busy medieval town is world-renowned as the birthplace of Charles Darwin. History is proudly on display everywhere from the moment you step off the train; from streets adorned by half-timbered houses to the town’s impressive red brick castle.

There’s plenty to enjoy in Shrewsbury and the Shropshire surrounds. The area’s rich history is on show for all to see in its fascinating Museum and Art Gallery , and across the town itself.

The town lies within the loop of the River Severn. Streets are lined with fascinating buildings, 600 of which boast a listed status. Many of these are instantly identifiable by their charismatic black and white exteriors, fine examples of Tudor era half-timbered houses. Among the finest and oldest is Henry Tudor Inn . Today, the 15th century landmark is a popular bar and restaurant.

While exploring the town centre, be sure to pay a visit to Charles Darwin’s statue outside the library. Shrewsbury is proud of the fact that the naturalist was born here and studied at Shrewsbury School, which at the time resided within the library walls. His legacy is further celebrated along the banks of the Severn with the Quantum Leap sculpture, erected to celebrate Darwin’s 200th birthday.

Attractions

Standing guard over the town is Shrewsbury Castle . The red sandstone walls were built during the reign of Henry III in 1220, but the existence of a fortress here is traced back to Norman times. It is today home to the Shropshire Regimental Museum and is a fine place to enjoy views across the surrounds from its tower and battlements.

Just a short walk from the train station is Shrewsbury Prison , decommissioned in 2013 it is now open as a popular tourist attraction. Discover the prison’s history with a guided tour from an ex-prison officer or head there after dark to meet its many spectral residents, with an active calendar of paranormal investigations and sleepovers.

One of the best ways to explore Shrewsbury is on the water. The Sabrina Boat offers daily tours along the Severn, when the skipper will regale you with the town’s history, as well as an exciting calendar of themed evening voyages.

St Mary’s Church is a must visit when in Shrewsbury. Its spire is one of the tallest in England and has dominated the town’s skyline for over 500 years. The beautiful stained-glass panels include the famous 14th century Jesse Window, filled with a Medieval cartoon strip of kings and prophets of The Old Testament.

Re-opened in 2014, Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery tells the stories that make Shropsire unique. Take a stroll through its themed galleries; Roman, Medieval, Tudor and Stuart, and explore millions of years of local history through over one thousand remarkable objects.

Food and drink

You can’t go wrong when it comes to finding a bite to eat. Cobbled streets are a doormat to many fine restaurants and cafes that champion the best of local produce.

An exceptional fine dining experience awaits at The Walrus Restaurant . The small and constantly evolving seasonal menu here champions local produce, while the modern, open kitchen dining experience ensures a relaxed atmosphere.

CSons is a must visit for all foodies. Passionate about local produce, the four brothers create simple, unpretentious, globally inspired dishes bursting with flavour that are a hit with residents, visitors and critics alike!

Sports and outdoors

Shrewsbury’s main recreation space is found at Quarry Park. Centrally located, the historic park boasts a blissful 29 acres that are open to the public 24 hours a day throughout the year and set the stage for regular events. The highlight is Dingle Garden; a gem of a location adorned with colourful flowers and water features.

Music and nightlife

Performing arts takes centre stage at the Theatre Severn . This premier venue hosts an eclectic calendar of entertainment across its main 635-seater auditorium and more intimate Walker Theatre.

Alberts Shed is your go to for live, local talent, boasting an impressive calendar of daily live entertainment, whilst doubling as a nightclub during the weekends.

Shopping

Independent retailers outnumber big chains in Shrewsbury. Saving some time for a little retail therapy is therefore highly recommended, with an extensive range of quirky boutiques and your favourite big names awaiting shoppers.

The jewel in the crown of Shrewsbury’s shopping scene is Wyle Cop , the longest run of uninterrupted independent business in the UK.

Nestled beneath Shrewsbury’s iconic clock tower is the award-winning Market Hall . A mix of old and new, fresh and organic, taste and texture - visit the Market Hall and experience the unique blend of some of Shropshire's finest producers, restaurants, markers and creators.

Spread across two floors of a converted Georgian hospital, The Parade is a haven of local independent retailers. From oriental food to homeware, menswear to a milliners this shopping experience isn’t to be missed.

Where do WMR trains to Shrewsbury arrive and depart?

WMR trains arrive and depart from Shrewsbury’s only train station, located in the town centre, off the A5191.

Which train services run direct to Shrewsbury?

Getting to Shrewsbury by train is anything but dated. We operate direct trains from Birmingham to Shrewsbury with the fastest service taking just 1 hour and 10 minutes. Cheap tickets start from £18.90 one-way. Calling points include Wolverhampton, Telford Central and Wellington.

When is the best time to travel to Shrewsbury by train?

It’s wonderfully cheap and easy to travel to Shrewsbury by train. By opting for off-peak times to travel, you’ll enjoy less-crowded trains and cheaper ticket prices too.