The rich appeal of Shropshire is long established. The Romans loved it here, and ruins of its baths and forum can still be seen across the county, which sits snug on the England-Wales border. Fast forward to the modern day and Shropshire remains an attractive place to put down roots and enjoy what life has to offer. This is thanks to its almost continuous development from the boom of blossoming medieval market towns and onto its emergence as a cradle of the Industrial Revolution. The shopping scene is distinctive and diverse with infinitely more allure than an out-of-town retail park. Old-world charm is a big feature of ‘urban’ Shropshire, while almost a quarter of the county is covered by the Shropshire Hills Area of ‘Outstanding Natural Beauty’ (sprawling, majestic countryside). Shropshire evolved in a fitting manner – modern amenities are plentiful – and it is also one of the least crowded and most peaceful areas in England. Allied to its heritage, character, and picturesque landscapes, Shropshire has a phenomenal amount to offer. Here is our guide to the very best places to live.
Ludlow
Ludlow encapsulates all that is good about a classic British market town. It’s brimming with historic charm and surrounded by stunning countryside – crucial elements that are as good as guaranteed, and permanent as mother nature. Ludlow retains its character, even in the 21st century, while evolving into a modern and desirable place to live. Suitable for those who like a slower pace of life, but still want a flourishing, cosy, community feel. Ludlow has a healthy range of events and activities throughout the year, and is something of a ‘foodie heaven’, with numerous festivals, markets, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Its pretty medieval streets, timber-framed buildings – and famous castle – are all well-preserved. There are good links to Cardiff, Shrewsbury and Hereford, plenty of shopping options and schools and sports facilities are strong. Attractive period properties are relatively plentiful.
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Shrewsbury
The proud epicentre of Shropshire, Shrewsbury is often considered one of the best places to live in the UK – especially if living in a big city is not your thing. There is some outstanding housing to be found in and around the county town – beautiful period properties with lots of space and character. Shrewsbury has so much to offer. Anchored by cobbled streets, handsome listed buildings, a vibrant social calendar, and numerous cultural events, Shrewsbury is also served by excellent schools, thriving independent markets, big retailers, strong transport links, and the beautiful Shropshire Hills nearby. Allied to the fact it has a major hospital, unlike other more rural areas in Shropshire, it’s an ideal location for families and professionals.
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Church Stretton
Known as “Little Switzerland”, thanks to its dramatic hills and valleys, this small town is a real change of pace from Shrewsbury. There is a contented, engaged, community-focused lifestyle here – it attracts creative and outdoorsy people, with beautiful countryside on the doorstep for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers to explore. Though it has a more relaxed feel, there is still a hum of activity: the Church Stretton Arts Festival is a major annual event featuring classical music, jazz, theatre, and visual arts, while the Silvester Horne Institute hosts live music, theatre performances, and workshops all year round. There are good literary connections, with book clubs and a well-loved local library. Houses are a superb investment – prices have a higher premium because of the scenic location. There is also a train station with good connections to Shrewsbury, Ludlow, and Birmingham.
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Much Wenlock
The Olympic Games fire the imagination of billions of people across the world every four years. Its impact is astonishing. It’s remarkable to think that Much Wenlock – with its tiny population of just 3,000 – played a significant role in its 19th-century emergence, with Dr William Penny Brookes, who hailed from the small Shropshire town, inspiring the modern Olympic Movement. But to the modern day, ‘Wenlock’ dazzles as a highly attractive place to put down roots, especially for those who commute to Birmingham for work. It’s got plenty of historic charm, community spirit, cultural appeal, and countryside beauty, while – like much of Shropshire – the independent shops and local market scene are thriving. The atmosphere is of a large, friendly village where countryside-loving families can settle down, grow, and prosper – especially with some highly rated primary and secondary schools nearby.
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Oswestry
Oswestry – located in England yet further west than Wrexham – has a unique mix of English and Welsh influences, giving this border market town an utterly distinctive character. It’s so close to Wales – Welsh road signs abound, and the Welsh language is widely spoken here – that it adds an intriguing layer to what is already a place with tangible appeal. The town is full of historic landmarks, and has a bustling Indoor and Outdoor market and a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. There is an artistic thread embedded within its cultural life: the Willow Gallery likes to champion the work of local artists, the Hermon Arts Centre is a busy hub for live music, theatre, and arts events, and the Oswestry Lit Fest is well known for its expert celebration of literature, writing, and poetry. The town is served by various properties, including Victorian townhouses, modern developments, and newly built homes. There are also excellent transport links – especially nearby Gobowen train station, which provides access to Birmingham, Chester, and London.
Settling in Shropshire can strip back life’s complexities. Away from the urban hustle, it’s got a seriously healthy dose of rural bliss – natural beauty, unspoiled scenery – with an intoxicating injection of culture, community, and modern convenience, whenever you need it. Properties are large, schools are strong, and pollution is low. This is a safe and pleasant land.
