Attractions and Places To See around Upton Magna - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Upton Magna, a village in Shropshire, England, offer a mix of historical sites and natural landscapes. The area is characterized by its historical charm, including ancient churches and cottages, alongside natural features like hills and waterways. Visitors can explore significant landmarks and enjoy the surrounding countryside.
Best attractions and places to see around Upton Magna
- The most popular attractions is The Wrekin summit, a summit that dominates the surrounding countryside. It offers spectacular views in good weather and is also the site of an Iron Age hill fort.
- Another must-see spot is The Wrekin Hillfort, a historical viewpoint. This site dates back to the Iron Age, once home to the Cornovii tribe, and features ramparts.
- Visitors also love Shrewsbury Abbey, a historical site. Founded in 1083 as a Benedictine monastery, much of the abbey now serves as a parish church and is known as the setting for "The Cadfael Chronicles".
- Upton Magna is known for its historical sites, natural landmarks, and cultural points of interest. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient buildings to scenic hills.
- The attractions around Upton Magna are appreciated by the komoot community, with 180 upvotes and 147 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
The Wrekin summit
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The Wrekin Hillfort
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Wellington Rotary Toposcope on the Wrekin
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Shrewsbury Abbey
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The Abbey was founded in 1083 as a Benedictine monastery by the Norman Earl of Shrewsbury, Roger de Montgomery. It grew to be one of the most important and influential abbeys in England, and an important centre of pilgrimage. Although much of the Abbey was destroyed in the 16th century, the nave survived as a parish church, and today serves as the mother church for the Parish of Holy Cross.
Cadfael
Shrewsbury Abbey is the setting for The Cadfael Chronicles by Ellis Peters, in which the fictional Brother Cadfael is embroiled in a series of historical murder mysteries. The character of Cadfael is a Welsh Benedictine monk living at the Abbey in the first half of the 12th century.
Music
Choir- The Abbey has a long-standing reputation for excellence in choral music.
Organ- The Abbey has a fine organ, built in 1911 by William Hill and Son. shrewsburyabbey.com/music/hill-organ
Tours, Events and visits check out the abbey website for more information
shrewsburyabbey.com
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Shrewsbury Castle
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Here you'll now find items including uniforms, medals, weapons and photographs stretching back to the 18th century.
You can also get married here, with the beautiful walled gardens a great backdrop for anyone's special day!
Entrance to the castle gardens is free, and well worth a gander if you're passing by.
Find out more including seasonal opening hours here: shrewsburymuseum.org.uk/visit-shrewsbury/shrewsbury-castle
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Tips from the Community
We couldn't find an entrance. Is it accessible?
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Rising to 407 metres, The Wrekin is a prominent landmark, its visibility from the M54 signalling the entrance to Shropshire. Unlike some of the local hills, The Wrekin was never a volcano in its own right, despite its conical shape, but is composed of various igneous rocks and volcanic processes. The ridgeline either side of The Wrekin makes for some great running, with fabulous views in every direction.
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When I was at University in Brum in my first year I stayed with a lovely couple in Ward End. They used the local expression "all round the Wrekin". It was used to describe someone explaining something in a convoluted or complex way. Since then, I have had a fascination with the place and wanted to visit. Anyway, that was in the early 1970s - I finally got there in 2021 - better late than never!
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built in 1070, small red rock castle on Shrewsbury hill
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On top of Wrekin showing distances to surrounding places, touch to tick you have been here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore near Upton Magna?
Upton Magna and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the ancient Shrewsbury Abbey, founded in 1083, which is also famous as the setting for "The Cadfael Chronicles." Another significant historical landmark is Shrewsbury Castle, an 11th-century castle offering views of the town. Within Upton Magna itself, don't miss the Grade II listed St Lucia's Church, with parts dating back to the 12th century, and the historic Cruck Cottage, reputedly the oldest still-standing cottage in Europe.
Are there any natural landmarks or viewpoints to visit?
Absolutely. The most prominent natural landmark is The Wrekin summit, a 'little mountain' that offers spectacular views of the Shropshire countryside. On its summit, you'll also find the Wellington Rotary Toposcope, which points out distances to surrounding places. Nearby, Haughmond Hill provides scenic views and walking opportunities. The area also features the disused Shropshire Union Canal, with listed structures like bridges and tunnel entrances.
What outdoor activities are available around Upton Magna?
The area around Upton Magna is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy easy hikes on trails around Haughmond Hill. For cyclists, Upton Magna is situated on National Cycle Route 81, offering beautiful rides through the Shropshire countryside. There are also numerous road cycling routes and running trails to explore.
Are there family-friendly attractions near Upton Magna?
Yes, several attractions cater to families. Shrewsbury Abbey and Shrewsbury Castle are both listed as family-friendly and offer engaging historical experiences. Additionally, the walks up The Wrekin, while challenging, are popular with families, and the nearby Attingham Park (National Trust) provides extensive grounds and a stately home for exploration.
Where can I find easy walking routes around Upton Magna?
For easy walks, consider the trails around Haughmond Hill. Komoot offers several easy hikes around Upton Magna, including loops from Upton Magna and Uffington that explore the viewpoints and cafe at Haughmond Hill. These routes are generally well-suited for a relaxed stroll.
What is the significance of The Wrekin Hillfort?
The Wrekin Hillfort is a historically significant site dating back to the Iron Age. It was once home to the Cornovii tribe and played a strategic role before the Roman invasion. The hillfort makes use of the hill’s natural defensive capabilities, with ramparts still visible, particularly on the northern side. It's a popular spot for hikers interested in history and panoramic views.
Are there any pubs or cafes in Upton Magna for refreshments?
Yes, Upton Magna has local amenities. The Haughmond, formerly known as "The Corbet Arms," is a central pub that also features a brasserie, a more formal restaurant (Basil's), and a Village Store. It's a popular spot for walkers and cyclists to grab refreshments.
What other notable historical sites are a short drive from Upton Magna?
Beyond Upton Magna, you can easily reach Wroxeter Roman City, just 3.8 km away, which offers insights into Roman Britain. The iconic Iron Bridge, a symbol of the Industrial Revolution, is about 14.6 km from the village. Shrewsbury Prison, approximately 3.6 miles away, also provides a unique historical visitor experience.
Can I find cycling routes that pass through Upton Magna?
Upton Magna is conveniently located on National Cycle Route 81, which connects Wellington and Shrewsbury. This makes it an excellent stop for cyclists exploring the beautiful Shropshire countryside. You can find various road cycling routes around Upton Magna, including longer loops that take in nearby towns and landmarks like The Iron Bridge.
What makes Upton Magna a conservation area?
Upton Magna is designated as a conservation area due to its special architectural and historic interest. This includes landmarks like the Cruck Cottage and St Lucia's Church, as well as the overall character of the village with its blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The preservation efforts aim to maintain its unique heritage.
What is the history of Upton Forge?
Upton Forge has a rich industrial history, operating as early as 1675 and becoming one of the largest in the country during the 18th century. It famously produced the chains for the Menai Suspension Bridge and the Conwy Suspension Bridge after being leased by William Hazledine from 1800. The works closed following Hazledine's death in 1840.
Are there any parks or green spaces nearby for relaxation?
Yes, The Quarry in Shrewsbury, about 7.1 km from Upton Magna, is a lovely green space offering natural scenery and a pleasant environment for relaxation. Additionally, Attingham Park, a National Trust property, provides extensive parkland and gardens for visitors to enjoy.
Most popular attractions around Upton Magna
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