Ironbridge Gorge

Ironbridge Gorge is a historical landscape in Shropshire that played a vital role in sparking the Industrial Revolution of the 18th century, and remains a powerful symbol of the period. Spanning an area of some 5.5 square kilometres, it is often cited as the birthplace of modern-day industry and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1986.

Ironbridge Gorge history

Ironbridge Gorge was formed at the end of the Last Glacial Period, with the deep exposure of the rocks revealing commercial deposits of coal, iron ore, limestone, and fireclay.

These materials allowed for the area’s rapid economic development in the early stages of the Industrial Revolution, as they aided in the manufacture of iron, tiles, and porcelain, while the River Severn that flows through the gorge allowed easy transport of products to the sea.

The gorge’s communities soon became thriving centres of manufacturing, which is today reflected in many of their names: Coalbrookdale, Coalport, and Ironbridge.

The name Ironbridge Gorge also refers to an important landmark – the world’s first iron bridge, built there in 1779 over the gorge. The Iron Bridge has today become a symbol of the Industrial Revolution, with its striking exterior a reminder of Britain’s innovative industrial past.

Ironbridge Gorge today

Today, visitors to Ironbridge Gorge can truly immerse themselves in this fascinating period of history. Not only can they see the iconic Iron Bridge, but also a variety of other sites including homes, factories, mines, warehouses, foundries, and the stunning natural beauty of the Gorge itself.

There are ten Ironbridge Gorge museums, each telling a different aspect of the area’s story. From exploring the world of a Victorian town at Blists Hill and the Coalport China Museum, to the Jackfield Tile Museum and the Tar tunnel, Ironbridge Gorge truly has all bases covered for those looking to explore the industries of Britain’s past!

Getting to Ironbridge Gorge

Ironbridge Gorge is located in Shropshire 5 miles south of Telford Town Centre, It can be reached by exiting the M54 at Junctions 4 or 6, and following the brown tourist signs for Ironbridge Gorge, from which various signs may be followed to the different museums.

Telford Central train station is 6 miles away, from which local bus or taxi services may be taken to the site, including the 4 bus service which stops at Wyvern, a 20-minute walk to the Iron Bridge.