Iron Bridge

The world's first iron bridge was erected over the River Severn here in 1779. Designed by the Shrewsbury architect Thomas Pritchard, it was cast by local ironmaster Abraham Darby III in his nearby Coalbrookdale foundry, using 378 tons of iron. Recent research shows that most parts were individually made to fit, adapting traditional woodworking joints. Perhaps Britain's best-known industrial monument, the bridge gave its name to the spectacular wooded gorge which became the cradle of the Industrial Revolution. Ironbridge Gorge is now a World Heritage Site.

The Iron Bridge is the perfect place to begin a tour of the Gorge's many museums, and the many other English Heritage sites nearby, including Buildwas Abbey,Wenlock Priory and Wroxeter Roman City.