The pretty UK village famous for world’s first iron bridge
Dramatic views, the longest river in Great Britain and the world’s first iron bridge; it’s no wonder thousands of people are flocking to the pretty little village of Ironbridge in Shropshire every year.
Just an hour away from Coventry, Ironbridge is a Victorian town offering you the chance to step back in time, learn something new and lose yourself in one of the area’s beautiful walks.
As unique as it is beautiful, the world’s first iron bridge, built over the River Severn in 1779, is a nod to the time when Britain ruled the world.
During the reign of Queen Elizabeth, Shropshire landowners began to exploit coal on a large scale. By 1700 there were several furnaces and forges in the area, all using charcoal as their fuel.
By the 1750s it was clear that industry was at the mercy of the 220-mile long River Severn and ironmaster Abraham Darby was commissioned to build a bridge.
Three months of continuous production and 384 tonnes of iron later, it was unveiled in 1779 at the most dramatic part of the gorge, costing today’s equivalent of £1.5million.
Today, within Ironbridge Gorge sits a recreated working town that will give you a flavour of how craftsmen carried out their various trades. It is at the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Blists Hall Victorian Town has a range of shops and cottages to show how traditional life and industry worked in harmony at the dawn of the modern age. You can also try some authentic food and sweets from the period.
For science-lovers there are experiments to master, each designed to boost creativity and open minds. From discovering how a blast furnace works to learning about the first electric car, children and adults alike will be captivated.
There’s also a 1,000-yard deep tar tunnel which gives a glimpse of what lies underneath the village. Hear the story of how the industrial ‘New Town’ came about thanks to an accidental discovery.
The Ironbridge Gorge welcomes more than 1.5 million national and international visitors each year and is the perfect day out for all the family.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
But if history is not your thing, fear not because Ironbridge also has a wealth of walks and cycle routes to get to grips with, studded with pubs to grab a drink and bite to eat.
Opt to explore the spectacular wooded gorge and you won’t be disappointed. There are flat and hilly options to choose from and there’s even the chance to spot a waterfall.
Finish a day of learning or exercise at one of Ironbridge’s eating establishments. From afternoon tea to fine dining, many places are dog friendly and offer a glimpse of the stunning views.
Source: Read Full Article
