Whether for work or a fun day out, catching the train from Birmingham to the Market town of Shrewsbury is the easiest way to travel.

Allowing you to arrive feeling fresh and ready to explore, the trains are supremely clean and comfortable and offer free Wifi. Why not use the hour journey to relax with the latest blockbuster, or catch up with social media? The medieval town of Shrewsbury, in the country of Shropshire, is steeped in a rich history, juxtaposed with a vibrant contemporary culture. Offering a family friendly mix of attractions, Shrewsbury is perfect for a day out or taking a long weekend to explore the winding streets. and wild landscapes of Shropshire.

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Dominating the town centre is the glorious red sandstone of Shrewsbury Castle. Built by the Normans in 1070, along with the fortified town walls, of which little now remains, and the River Severn, to protect the English border from the Welsh. The castle is now home to the Soldiers of Shropshire Museum, featuring collections of armoury, weaponry, medals and more, from the 18th century to the present day.  

The twisting cobbled streets of Shrewsbury are a shopaholic's dream. While the Pride Hill Shopping Centre houses all the big names from the high street, plus designer exclusives, the Parade Shops in the heart of the town, offers two floors of independent retailers set in a Grade II listed Georgian mansion. Eclectic in the extreme, this is a must for treasure hunters - from exotic fabrics to hand thrown pottery, luxury spa treatments to philately and antiquarian book collections, there is something to suit every taste and then some.

Shrewsbury is the birthplace of the naturalist, Charles Darwin, and the town’s famous son is celebrated throughout with statues and trails that follow in his footsteps. Standing opposite the Theatre Severn - incidentally, a great venue in which to catch a show and bite to eat, the Quantum Leap sculpture was erected to mark his 200th birthday. Darwin’s early years were spent exploring the countryside around Shrewsbury - the river valley, long hill ranges, and wild forests. The abundance of glacial boulders left from the vast ice sheets that once covered this region are what sparked the young lad’s interest in geology and the natural world.

Cat lovers should head for Shropshire’s first cat cafe, Paws Cafe, where the 11 resident purr monsters will make themselves very comfortable around you, requiring frequent fuss and love. The tearoom puts on regular weekend moggy movie mornings - a favourite of felines and visitors alike, and story evenings, especially for kids and kittens. A definite must-see for anyone who loves cats.

Shrewsbury offers an exciting varied mix of attractions and activities for young and old alike, so why not download the easy-to-use mobile app giving you access to all the latest money-saving deals? These include the Advance, flexible Anytime, and Off-peak ticket options, which all leave you more in your wallet to spend in Shrewsbury.