THE WREKIN ROUND - STOP BY STOP
Tar Tunnel
You will first notice that the Tar Tunnel is an abandoned tunnel. It is located on the north bank of the River Severn in the Ironbridge Gorge at Coalport, England. This site is currently managed by the National Trust, which took over the location as one of ten museums acquired from the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust in 2026. Visitors can wander through the structure to get a sense of the area's industrial past. I usually find the silence of these old passages a bit eerie, but it makes the walk through the gorge feel much more atmospheric for anyone passing through. Whether you are here for the history or just the walk, the tunnel remains a striking feature of the north bank landscape that is well worth a look during your time in Coalport.
Jackfield Landslip (1952)
Coalport China Museum
Let me show you the Coalport China Museum. This industry museum is based in the village of Coalport within the Ironbridge Gorge, situated on the northern bank of the River Severn in Shropshire, United Kingdom. It is an independent museum founded in 1967 and is managed by the National Trust. You can pick out the local history and the crafts of the area here, though the museum is set for a transition; it is one of ten museums to be acquired from the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust in 2026. I've always found the riverside air here quite refreshing for a flight, especially when the wind is blowing just right across the Severn. It is a wonderful spot to stop and see the legacy of the region's industrial past before you move on to your next hole.
Jackfield Tile Museum
Jackfield Tile Museum is an independent museum located in the village of Jackfield, near Broseley, on the south bank of the River Severn in the Ironbridge Gorge, in Shropshire, England. It presents the history of the British decorative tile industry between 1840 and 1960. The museum was founded in 2007 and is situated within a World Heritage Site. It is managed by the National Trust and is one of the ten museums to be acquired from the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust in 2026. I always find the patterns in the displays fascinating, though I prefer the view from the rooftops. It is a great spot to see how the industry evolved over those two centuries, provided you can keep your eyes off the shiny surfaces of the exhibits. You can pick out the distinct styles used across the country during that era.
Original Free Bridge
St. Luke's Church
St. Luke's Church is a church building. It is a Grade II listed building, which is a designation given to structures of special architectural or historic interest. This site is used for worship and serves as a place for the community to gather. When you visit, you can observe the specific characteristics that led to its listing status. The building is a permanent fixture of the local landscape and provides a space for reflection and religious services. Because it is a listed building, the structure is protected and maintained to preserve its historical value for future visitors. It remains an active part of the town, offering a quiet environment for those who enter its doors to pray or admire the architecture of the church building.
Museum of the Gorge
The Museum of the Gorge is a museum housed in what was originally the Severn Warehouse. It portrays the history of the Ironbridge Gorge as well as the surrounding area of Coalbrookdale, Shropshire, England. This location is managed by the National Trust. In 2026, it was one of ten museums to be acquired from the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust. I've noticed the building has a sturdy feel to it, which makes sense given its origins as a warehouse. It is a great spot to get your bearings on how this region developed over time. Whether you are interested in the local industry or the wider history of Shropshire, there is plenty to see within these old warehouse walls. I always find the transition from a working warehouse to a museum creates a very specific atmosphere for the visitors.
Holy Trinity
Located within the city of Wrekin, Holy Trinity is a church building. This site is a place of worship and holds a specific status as a Grade II listed building. Visitors to the area can find the building situated among the local streets, where it remains a point of interest for those exploring the city's architecture. As a Grade II listed building, it is recognized for its particular importance. Whether you are passing through on a walk or following the path of the CityGolf course, the church building is a notable landmark in the neighborhood. It is important to remain respectful while visiting this site, as it continues to serve its purpose as a church building for the community in Wrekin.
