Bridgnorth Castle and Gardens

Bridgnorth Castle is Shropshire’s answer to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. In fact, what remains of the original construction is far greater out of perpendicular than the famous Italian landmark, leaning at a precarious 17 degrees.

When you see it today it is difficult to believe that at one time this Norman castle covered the whole of the cliff where it stands and was home to hundreds of people. It was destroyed by Cromwell’s forces in 1646, and the only surviving part is a substantial section of the keep. After it had been blown up much of the demolished stone was quarried away to repair the town, which had also suffered extensive damage.

The surrounding gardens and nearby Castle Walk enable you to enjoy some truly spectacular views over the Severn Valley, while just to the right of the castle is a more recently planted garden which has, as its focal point, a memorial with a statue of Sabrina, the Goddess of the River Severn, facing up river. Sit on a bench by a war memorial a little further along and you will be able to watch the Severn Valley Railway steam engines puffing their way to and from Kidderminster.