A charming market town that almost feels like an island among majestic rural countryside is home to one of the best high streets in the UK. 

The beautiful town of Shrewsbury in Shropshire is encircled by the meandering River Severn and characterised by its black-and-white timber-framed Tudor buildings. The preserved medieval town is famously the birthplace of Charles Darwin and home to nearly 800 listed buildings, as well as thriving independent businesses and sprawling Quarry Park.

Its undeniable charm has earned high praise, including being named ‘one of the UK’s happiest places to live’ on the Guardian’s list released last year. The publication noted its low crime rates, selection of top schools, eatery options, and its “beautiful period architecture”, with the average asking price for a semi-detached home sitting at around £293,244.

But its thriving high street is perhaps the most appealing feature of this town, brimming with independent shops and eateries. Its recognition has soared across the nation, with  Shrewsbury named ‘Britain’s best high street’ for two consecutive years by the Telegraph, thanks to its award-winning covered market and Wyle Cop.

Wyle Cop is a renowned high street in the heart of Shrewsbury, characterised by medieval timber-framed buildings, packed with independent shops offering everything from boutiques and jewellery to flowers and vintage gems. It’s also known for having one of the ‘longest rows of uninterrupted independent businesses in the UK’, thanks to its selection of eateries and coffee shops that make up this thriving area.

Some of Wyle Cop’s independent shops include Cooking Kneads, clothing store Ella Cru, Appleyards deli, Soden Collection art gallery, and It’s Feet First children’s shoe shop. When it comes to food, there’s more than enough choice throughout Shrewsbury from Italian at La Lanterna at the Old Vestry, Japanese at Itadakizen, asian fusion at Bombos, or tapas at Casa Naranjo.

For slower mornings, there are cosy coffee houses to grab that caffeine fix, including at The Condor, Caffè Mondi and Oath Coffee. Plus, the town offers a vibrant nightlife, including the snug The Hole In The Wall pub, The Libertine and Blind Tiger cocktail bars, and the bars Rough Draft and Ten & Six.

Adding to its flourishing scene is the Shrewsbury Market Hall, which boasts more than 60 independent traders offering food, drink, and other retail goodies. The market can be found on Claremont Street and is open every Tuesday to Saturday from 8am to 4pm.

Aside from shopping and devouring the foodie delights, there’s plenty more to explore in Shrewsbury. The town’s 29-acre Quarry Park and Gardens is a particular highlight, encircled by the loop of the River Severn, offering an enormous green space perfect for winter strolls or bike rides.

Steeped in history and surrounded by listed buildings, it’s easy to spend time wandering around the town marvelling at its fascinating architecture, including the historic Shrewsbury Abbey, the red sandstone castle, Old Market Hall, and Shrewsbury Prison, known as The Dana, which dates back to 1793. Elsewhere, there’s the Museum & Art Gallery and Theatre Severn, along with nearby parks like Hawkstone Park Follies and National Trust Attingham Park.

Shrewsbury offers a delightful day out, whether you want to browse around the extensive selection of shops, marvel at the beautiful medieval buildings, or explore Shropshire’s rural landscapes nearby. It’s also conveniently situated just an hour from Birmingham, by train or car, and is on the border of Wales.

If you want to check it out for yourself, there are plenty of accommodation options. Syke Holiday Cottages has a range of cosy homes and picturesque stays, while Booking.com can be a good source for cheap hotels in the area. 

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com