South Telford Heritage Trail
A 12-mile path in Shropshire starting in the new town of Telford, heading into the historic industrial locations of the Ironbridge Gorge, and meandering through surrounding countryside back to Telford. With map, statistics, and GPX route file.
Statistics and Files
Grid Ref: SJ 698 081
Distance: 12 miles (20 km)
Time: 5–6 hours
Duration: 1 day
Ordnance Survey Explorer Map (1:25,000):
242 Telford, Ironbridge and The Wrekin
Summary
The South Telford Heritage Trail is a circular walking route that takes you on a journey around known and lesser-known heritage sites within the Parishes of Stirchley and Brookside, Madeley, Dawley Hamlets, and the Gorge.
The route follows the remains of a network of canals, tramways, railways, coal-mines, brickworks, potteries, and ironworks that once flourished in the area. Telford was established as a new town in 1968, incorporating many old settlements and communities within its boundaries, some dating back to the Domesday Book. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the area was noted for its coal mines, ironworks, china factories, and brickworks. By the beginning of the 20th century, much of this industry had declined, and by the 1960s, what remained was a legacy of uncapped mineshafts, derelict buildings, abandoned quarries, spoil heaps, and pit mounds.
The development of Telford and thoughtful landscaping have removed or hidden many of these scars. However, throughout the area of South Telford, there remains a wealth of heritage sites—including canals, railways, mines, ironworks, houses, and fine buildings associated with the area’s industrial past. Many of these heritage sites are easily missed by the casual walker, and their contributions to the rich history of the area are less well known.