Planning your visit

Whether you're new to Ironbridge Gorge or a returning visitor, there's so much to see and do including a recreated Victorian Town and museums which tell the story of the Industrial Revolution. Initially, we're opening up three places, which have recently come into our care, but over the course of this year, there will be a phased reopening of the other special places within this World Heritage Site.

Blists Hill Victorian Town

Step into the sights, sounds and stories of Ironbridge Gorge’s industrial past and explore a working-class town in the East Shropshire coalfield.

Visit Victorian shops and cottages, meet craftspeople demonstrating their trades and meet costumed storytellers sharing what everyday life was like for people living and working in industrial towns like Blists Hill.

As you make your way through the streets, stop off at the fish and chip shop for traditional beef dripping chips (vegan and gluten free options available) and enjoy a sing-a-long and drink in the New Inn public house.

Encounter some of the well-loved characters of the town, including Constable Jarrett, while enjoying demonstrations and giving the Victorians a hand with everyday tasks.

Let the young (and young at heart) run free in the Madeley Wood Outdoor Play Area, dress up like a Victorian in our Photography Studio or if you’re brave, join a lesson in the Board Schoolroom.

Some well-loved experiences, including horse-drawn carriage rides, steam exhibits and forge demonstrations, are expected to return in the coming months when we’ve worked through these more complex elements.

As a living, evolving town, Blist Hill will continue to be re-opened and restored over time. Keep an eye out for conservation work on the Saw Mill and a refreshed Bank exchange coming before the school holidays, as well as Fairs, more familiar faces and a summer of fun.

Initially, all visitors including National Trust members, will need to pre-book to visit Blists Hill. We are hopeful that as soon as work to upgrade the IT infrastructure is complete, this will no longer be the case and will keep you updated on progress.

Book your visit to Blists Hill

Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron

Delve into the story of iron, the material that transformed the modern world.

Discover how Ironbridge Gorge’s geology was the natural location for an Industrial Revolution and how Abraham Darby I made his pioneering discovery.

Ironwork from Coalbrookdale was renowned for its quality and innovation and the musuem is home to iron objects that revolutionised working people's everyday lives, as well as exquisite art castings that decorated buildings across the globe.

There's also lots to learn about the lives of the enterprising Darby family, whose lasting legacy is felt all around the world today.

Furnace Kitchen

Discover what's on offer in the Furnace Kitchen, seven-days-a-week, from 9am to 5pm. Initially, the menu will include hot and cold drinks alongside a variety of cakes, sandwiches and children's lunch-boxes. The range of food options available will increase, as soon as we are able.

Explore nearby

Elsewhere in Coalbrookdale there is more to explore:
•   See the Old Furnace where Abraham Darby I perfected the iron smelting technique that triggered the Industrial Revolution and changed our lives forever. (termporarily closed for conservation repairs)
•   Walk around the remains of industrial buildings
•   Enjoy the greenery of the Gorge