Shrewsbury, home to the University Centre Shrewsbury, is a lovely historic market town with plenty to see and do on a student budget.
Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery
The Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery is located right off the main town market square, and entrance is free for everyone. There are exhibitions on the history of the area, from woolly mammoths to the Romans to medieval times, to the Tudors and beyond. My personal favourite portion of the museum is the fashion history display. This includes both women’s and men’s fashion dating from 1700 to 1980. There is also a large collection of colourful 18th and 19th century ceramics on display that link to the ceramics production industry in Shropshire.
Shrewsbury Market Hall
If you’re looking for an affordable bite to eat, there’s no better place than the Shrewsbury Market Hall. There is something for everyone at this award-winning market. Established in 1869, it is located right in the centre of town in the middle of the shopping district. The Market Hall is an excellent way to end your day with a nice meal and some shopping. There are food stalls of many varieties as well as independent vendors with handmade goods and original art from around the County. This is an excellent way to support local independent small businesses.
The Quarry Park
On a sunny day, the Quarry Park is full of life. From students relaxing on the grass with music and snacks, to families enjoying a nice walk by the river, it would be easy to spend a day enjoying this beautiful location. Be sure to take the Porthill Bridge across the River Severn for a nice walk, and the Dingle Garden is not to be missed - it is one of the nicest gardens I’ve seen before!
St. Chad’s Church
If you’re looking for something a bit more “touristy”, why not pay a visit to St. Chad’s Church? Located opposite the Quarry Park, outside the church, you can find the grave of Ebenezer Scrooge from the 1984 film adaptation of A Christmas Carol, which took place and was filmed in Shrewsbury. Take a walk around the churchyard and head inside to take in the architecture of this Grade I listed building.
The Beefy Boys
If you’re looking for a more sit-down type restaurant, why not check out The Beefy Boys for one of the best burgers you’ll ever taste? With options for everyone (including veggies, like me!), you can customise your burger exactly how you like it. Not to mention, the vibe and decor of the restaurant is incredible. I recommend booking ahead, especially on the weekend, as this is a very popular restaurant and wait times can be long (but so worth it!).
As you can see, Shrewsbury is full of wonderful activities that don’t have to break the bank. There is no shortage of things to do and places to see. This small list just scratches the surface of what this town has to offer. Now, go out and explore!
