This is a sponsored post, however, all thoughts and opinions are my own. You can read more about sponsorships and collaborations in my disclaimer here.

With lots more time to explore my local area, I have discovered a love for Shropshire that I never expected to have. From the stunning countryside to the independent businesses, realising what you have on your doorstep is a great feeling. With that in mind, this post looks at some of my favourite date ideas for couples visiting Shrewsbury.

I’ve lived in Shropshire for the majority of my life and until this year, I didn’t really see the beauty in it. I’d much rather spend my money booking trips to far-flung destinations but when the opportunity to travel was not there, I had no choice but to explore what was on my doorstep.

While it took some getting used to, I was definitely pleasantly surprised by how much fun can be had just moments away from my house!

As my social circle has also been limited this year, a lot of my time has been spent going on date nights with my boyfriend. a lot of these dates have been at home as a result of the pandemic but where possible, we have tried to get out and about.

This is where living in Telford has it’s perks as in just twenty short minutes, we could be in Shrewsbury, one of my favourite local towns.

As I have now spent a lot of time in Shrewsbury, I thought I’d share some of my favourite options for those looking to go on a date in the area. Whether you’re with your partner or you’re heading out on a first-date, there are so many incredible things to do!

Date Ideas For Couples In Shrewsbury

Take A Walk Around The Quarry/Park

Although this is probably a little weather-dependent, you can’t beat a walk around Shrewsbury Quarry. While it may sound like an industrial site, the Quarry is actually a riverfront park that sits on the River Severn. It’s much more popular in the summer months, but during Autumn and Winter can be a nice place to go for a stroll.

While visiting the Quarry, there’s also an area called the Dingle. Here you will find a floral garden cultivated by the park’s ex-Superintendent, Percy Thrower. Beautiful all year round, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Go For A Delicious Meal In The Many Independent Restaurants

One of my favourite things about Shrewsbury is that there are SO MANY independent places to eat. While you can still find the usual Zizzi, Ask Italian and Carluccio’s, most of the choices are independently run businesses. Some of my favourites include Darwin’s, Bombo’s, The Peach Tree, House Of The Rising Sun and Dough and Oil.

For drinks, Libertine’s, Ten & Six and Havana Republic are top of my list!

My ultimate favourite, of course, is Hickory’s, a restaurant I first fell in love with when visiting Chester for the first time. Now that one has opened Shrewsbury, I visit at least once a month!

Head Out For A Day Trip In The Surrounding Area

Another great thing about the Shrewsbury area is that you’re close to so many incredible places in the surrounding areas. From Church Stretton and the Long Mynd to Alton Towers in Staffordshire, there are a lot of great places just a short drive away. If you’re thinking of starting Staffordshire dating and you’re looking for the best places to take your online date for the first time, Alton Towers is DEFINITELY a good ice breaker. Take it from someone who has been there more times than she can count…

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Church Stretton, I highly recommend Mountain Edge.

Grab A Slice Of Cake And Do Some Shopping On The Wyle Cop

For those that don’t know, The Wyle Cop is a long row of uninterrupted independent shops, restaurants and cafes. It’s one of my favourite places to visit in Shrewsbury as each place has its own unique differences and you can honestly spend hours exploring them all individually. If you’re looking for a cute date, I’d suggest starting at the bottom and grabbing a coffee and a cake from Cafe On The Cop, working your way up through the shops and then ending with dinner and drinks at Bombos.

Just off of Wyle Cop there is also two incredible cafe’s called CSONS and the Peaberry Grand Cafe. CSONS has an international menu with the BEST breakfast pancakes you’ll ever need and Peaberry is great for those times when you want a delicious slice of cake and a coffee.

Head Out On The River

If it’s a sunny day, heading out on the river is a great date idea for those looking for something a little different.

There are lots of different options when it comes to river cruises on the River Severn, but one of the most popular is with the Sabrina. Starting at just £4.50, you can choose a cruise that suits you. Whether this means you book the cruise and lunch package or you opt for a ghost cruise one evening, their website details everything they have to offer.

Alternatively, you could research the best Shrewsbury River walking routes and choose your favourite!

Visit Attingham Park (And The Myton And Mermaid)

If you love visiting National Trust sites, Attingham Park is a great date choice. With a country house, beautiful gardens and lots of other great areas to enjoy, you could easily spend a couple of hours getting lost in this beautiful property. If you have a National Trust membership, entry to Attingham Park is also free!

Just outside of the gates to Attingham Park, there is a beautiful restaurant and hotel called the Myton and Mermaid. I’ve only visited for Afternoon Tea in the past, but it’s definitely somewhere I’d recommend visiting for the interior alone!

Tour Shrewbury Prison

This is actually something I haven’t had a chance to do yet, but really want to.

For those that don’t know, Shrewsbury Prison is no longer a working-prison, but instead an educational place for you to visit. You can explore the Victorian wings, step into the Georgian cells and listen to stories by ex-prison officers. If you’re brave enough, you can also book on to ghost tours, where you visit the prison during the evening.

You can book tickets to visit Shrewsbury Prison here.

Although I’m not going to be trading travel for days in Shropshire every time, it’s definitely a great alternative for dates and days out while restrictions are still in place. Who knew I’d have this much fun locally, huh?