Between Three Bridges

1 3/4 miles. 1-2 hours. Gentle stroll.

An introductory circular walk showing the character of the town of Shrewsbury, contrasting townscape with countryside divided only by the majestic River Severn.

Starting at the Welsh Bridge (1), walk along Quarry Avenue noting the fine lime trees, some planted in 1719. Follow the riverside path to the suspension bridge (2) built in 1922 and cross it. Turn left into Beck's Field, a steep terrace scoured by the abrasive river in glacial times, Now traditionally managed ancient pasture ridged by woodland, with cows grazing and bees humming over the many summer wildflowers.

At (3) go through the gate up the steep bank to the high path through woodland in front of the famous Shrewsbury School to see the Mediaeval townscape of Shrewsbury with its elegant spires of the ancient churches of St. Mary's and St. Alkmund's which are depicted on the original town seal of 1425, and guided so many travellers, both friend and foe. Directly in front of you is the 1950's town market spire and clock, the round church of St. Chad's and to the right the Shirehall and Column of Lord Hill and finally the imposing shape of Haughmond Hill. Go through the gate and turn left down hill to the river.

Beck's Field

Now walk to the right in front of the boathouse (4) and climb the hidden steps beside Kingsland Bridge built in 1881, to the road. Cross the bridge, and at the road junction turn left in front of the old hospital, then left again and enter the Quarry Park from Quarry Place, noting St. Chad's Church whose round shape leaves no place for the devil to hide. Inside the gate take the right-hand path to the "Dingle" (5), within the hedged circle, to sit a while, enjoy the formal flower beds, the pool with its fine trees and mallard and to see the effigy of Sabrina, goddess of the river. The sunken Dingle was the quarry for the town's first building stone.

Return to the river path or walk across the sloping lawns and look across to the building high on the far bank. Erected in 1760 as an orphanage, it became a "House of Correction" or workhouse in 1784 and has been occupied by Shrewsbury School since 1882.

To return to the town centre walk up the main avenue to the war memorial and through the ornate gates presented by the Horticultural Society, whose headquarters are nearby, and then via Claremont Hill. To return to your start, walk back to the suspension bridge and Welsh Bridge via the river path.