Discover the Hidden Gems of Ironbridge Gorge

Most visitors have visited the Ironbridge Gorge and its iconic and world-famous Iron Bridge. Enjoyed great days out at Ironbridge Gorge Museums and delighted in the shops, pubs and restaurants along the River Severn and great Wharfage.

But just a short walk from the heart of Ironbridge there is another world full of hidden gems and ‘secret’ pathways that offer glimpses of the Gorge’s industrial past, creative people, amazing stories, and breath-taking landscape.

This is your guide to the paths less trodden where you can explore the wonders Ironbridge Gorge.

Explore the Wharfage and the Iron Bridge

Take in the iconic and world-famous Iron Bridge, a feat of engineering, architecture, and design. Look down to see the Old Coracle Shed celebrating the history of coracles before you explore the Wharfage and all its delights with its independent shops, artisans, café, and bars. Back on the bridge walk to the steps opposite the Toll House and make your way down to the river path where you get a spectacular view of the Bridge.

Discover Jackfield, Maws Artisan Village and Coalport

A short walk from the Toll House you will find the Severn Valley Way – a flat and easy walking and cycling route that leads visitors towards the historic community of Jackfield and Jackfield Tile Museum. On the route you pass some of the best riverside pubs and inns and look out for the Tile Trail. Arriving at Maws Craft Centre, this artisan village has a great Victorian courtyard tearoom and some of the best makers and crafters where you can shop and indulge in artisan goods and foods.

Cross the river to Coalport

Making your way to Jackfield Memorial Bridge you cross the River Severn and follow the Canal path into the pretty village of Coalport, home to the Coalport China Museum, some popular pubs, the Youth Hostel and its popular café.  Make sure you do not miss the amazing sight of the Incline Plane.

Discover Dale End and Merrythought Village

At the opposite end of the Gorge, you will find Dale End, with a mix of artisan shops, a tearoom, riverside walks and the popular Dale End Park and Gardens with its peaceful picnic spots. Its home to the UK’s last remaining Handmade Teddy bear maker, Merrythought. You can also enjoy the beautiful River Severn from this location with waterway activities available nearby including Canoe and Kayak hire.

Step into nature at the Greenwood Centre, café and woodlands

A short walk from Dale End you will come to a little green haven with its canopy of trees, heritage woodlands and forests. Nestled here is the Green Wood Centre and home of the Smallwood’s and the popular Green Wood Café. Enjoy a woodland walk, visit the new Coracle Centre, book a course to learn woodworking skills or simply indulge in some of the best coffee, cake, and café food.

Enjoy Coalbrookdale, The Furnace and great woodlands

Leaving the Green Wood centre take the woodland walk to Coalbrookdale. You are now in the heart of historic Coalbrookdale where the industrial activity that shaped the Gorge’s character started and where the early Ironmasters built  their grand houses. Gaze up at the dramatic Coalbrookdale viaduct, follow  paths that lead  along the Coalbrookdale Watercourses, natural streams and brooks that once powered the great foundries and go explore some of the best nature and heritage walks including Loamhole Dingle and Lydebrook onto the great Rope Walk.

5 Great Gorge viewpoints

Escape the hustle and bustle and discover magical views of the Gorge:

1. Bridge View
Walk the flight of steps from the Market Square and at the top make your  way into the grounds of the Church and you will be rewarded with a view  of the Iron Bridge that few are  aware of.

2. Gorge Alleys, Jitties and Banks

Walk a bit further and you will find  yourself exploring a network of alleys, jitties, shutts, cuts and banks that weave their way between a fascinating mix  of buildings, eventually reaching the top of the valley where there are  examples of fine, merchants houses.

3. Lodge Field

Reward your climb through the Gorge and take a break in Lodge Field, a natural haven affording wide ranging views and panoramas and a nature reserve of serenity.

4. The Beeches

Nature is in abundance here and just a short walk from Lodge Field  you will find another Nature Reserve, the beautiful Beeches Field  with its stunning views of the Gorge and natural pond.

5. The Rotunda

By far the most dramatic viewpoint in the Gorge is the Rotunda. A short walk from Dale End, off Lincoln Hill, follow paths through ancient woodlands, to a place that has been enjoyed by visitors for centuries. It is well worth it!