"Ironbridge...A pretty village." Ironbridge by lou31

It's hard to conceive that such a pretty place could have such a harsh name. This little village was a delight to visit. Unfortuneately when we arrived for a stop early on a Sunday morning all the shops and businesses were shut.

view of the town from the bridge

Ironbridge is named after the 30m cast iron bridge that spans the Severn River. This bridge was built by Abraham Darby III in 1779.

His grandfather Abraham Darby I was the first person to perfect the technique of smelting Iron with Coke. Britain was never to be the same again.

There are more than a few museums in and around Ironbridge, dedicated to the history of the town and it's industrial significance. Ironbridge draws engineering and steel work enthusiasts from all over the world.

View of the river from the bridge

From the little I saw of it ,Ironbridge is now on my 'Places to see again' list.

It was quiet and restful but due to it's many museums and attractions it would be an interesting and beautiful place to spend some time.

Blist Hill is a popular museum / theme park. The village takes you back in time to how things were in the 1700's. There is even a bank where you can change your money to the old currency, then and you can use it to purchase items at the shops. Period costumes and horse drawn vehicles add to the atmosphere...Yes I must go back!

• Pros:Significant to steel work enthusiasts, very picturesque and quiet.
• Cons:Can't think of any!
• In a nutshell:Just a lovely place to visit.