Wellington is an old market town situated along the Roman road of Watling Street in the centre of Shropshire. Twelve miles east of Shrewsbury and eight miles north-west of Ironbridge, it lies on the north-western fringe of what was once the Shropshire Coalfield, reborn forty years ago as Telford.
Wellington sits at the foot of The Wrekin, the iconic Shropshire hill, and was recorded as 'Welynton subter le Wrekne' and 'Welyngton under the Wrekyn' during the Middle Ages - hence the name of this website. From the summit of The Wrekin, 1300 feet above sea level, walkers can enjoy spectacular views in all directions from Cheshire to Worcestershire, Wales to the West Midlands.
Unlike many market towns, Wellington still boasts a thriving market at its heart. Founded by royal charter at least as early as 1244, comprising around 150 stalls, and operating four days a week, this is Shropshire’s largest and most visited market, not to mention one of its oldest.
It's true that when it comes to chocolate-box charm, our town is no match for the delights of Ludlow or Shrewsbury. But if you want to see a real, working Shropshire market town - warts and all - Wellington is a good place to start. What's more, if you appreciate local produce and good service, our unpretencious independent shops, market stalls, pubs and restaurants make a welcome change from the increasingly monotonous high street norm. Amongst them are the CAMRA-award winning Old Wrekin Tap at the Cock Hotel, the five star rated Old Orleton hotel and restaurant, and a butchers shop and deli stall recommended by Slow Food UK. It's also worth pointing out that thanks to regular rail services, bus services and the M54 motorway, Wellington is one of Shropshire's more accessible small towns.
This website is maintained by Wellington H2A (Heritage & Arts Alive) - the team behind events such as Sounds in The Square - and is designed to give you an idea about the town and surrounding countryside, its history, scenery, places worth seeing and events to look out for. Pages will continue to be added, so whether you're a native or a newcomer, a resident or potential visitor, we hope you'll keep logging on to see what's new.
