'This is how empires grow and societies thrive. Without roads, we have nothing. Without canal, we parch. Without bridges, we are secluded.,
Thomas Telford, a prominent civil engineer and visionary man-manager, thus wrote of the importance of the basic building infrastructure in the development of any community “ however large or small.
That he put forth these ideas over two centuries ago is evidence enough to understand the immense knowledge and understanding that Telford had about his area of expertise. It was only apt then that when various villages and communities in Shropshire were brought together to create a 'new town' of their own, the only name that anyone ever suggested was 'Telford'.
Such is the significance of Telford's contribution to the development of this region “ and engineering itself “ that one fails to grasp its scope until one visits the actual town.
Now boasting of its own district center and municipal authority, the fact that this 'town' is merely half a century old is interesting enough to warrant a visit from history buffs and culture explorers.
If you happen to be one of them, we would love to see you visit Shropshire, in particular Telford, and see for yourself the process of the building of a community. Maybe to stoke your interest just a touch better, we think this fact-book of Telford hotels will be an incentive enough for you to stop 'thinking about visiting Telford' and start 'making plans of visiting Telford'.
Affordable Lodging in Telford
Telford, even though it is quite young a 'town', does possess the typical English hospitality traits of quiet and distantly formal hosting. Quaint little villages in the region have now become quaint little precincts of this town. One might be quick to dismiss this fact as a shuffling in the books, but at the same time, it needs to be understood that being a town has allowed Telford to bring in more tourism from around the country, as well as other countries.
Proliferation of cheap hotels is one strikingly strong indicator of this. Traditional B&B units still prevail in this part of England, while modern budget hotels in Telford still seem to try hard to find their feet in the water.
But at any rate, whatever is available in the name of cheap hotels is definitely not bad. Hotel Swan at Forton is one excellent example of this. It is a small, little chateau-esque building exhibiting traditional English architecture of red bricks and solemn hallways. Rates of as low as $35 per night definitely justify the inclination of many tourists to lodge at Hotel Swan.
Similarly, Hotel Down Inn in Telford presents a very comfortable stay for its guests, at very competitive prices.
Seeking Luxury in Telford? Read on!
English countryside is more commonly and famously known for its quietude, blissful scenery and a sense of calm throughout the year that one can use to a good effect in order to seclude themselves from the chaos of city life.
That's probably why, it is rather difficult for tourists who wish to stay in utmost confines of luxury in Telford. But this is not to say that there is absolutely nothing that can be counted under the head of luxury when hotels in Telford are being discussed.
The only recognised and brand-powered star hotel in Telford is the Park Inn by Radisson. Unlike most other Radisson properties, it is a rather small and less ostentatious hotel that believes in keeping in sync with its lush green surroundings. However, the usual quality of Radisson's hospitality can surely be experienced here, at prices starting from $100 per night.
Holiday Inn Telford is a good alternative to Radisson, if you want to avail of slightly better prices and a good dose of English luxury.
What to See/Do in Telford?
There's a lot to see and do in Telford, if you know what it is that you are looking for. Merely for the overall scenery and the charms of industrial English lifestyle, Telford can be a good visiting place.
A short bus/car ride from Telford to Wroxeter will take you around 2,000 years back in time, with beautifully sombre ruins of Roman Empire at the top of its game and glory.
A clutter of nearby towns also present a case study into various medieval buildings, castles, forts and aristocratic homes. Victorian era life of industries and hard work marked by the industrial revolution still prevails in these parts of England, and mining towns, cotton towns and mill towns are witnesses of that era in the history of the British Empire.
At about 5 km north of the town, a small hilltop fort that belongs to the Bronze Age can be visited. Known locally as the 'Wrekin', it is a definitive member on the sightseeing itinerary of all tourists who visit Telford.
Another important site that you should not miss out on at any cost while you are in Telford, is the nearby location of Ironbridge gorge and the actual Ironbridge atop this gorge. It is the first ever bridge built out of extracted iron, and is often considered to be the birthplace of industrial revolution in the UK, and in turn, the world.
Things to Keep in Mind While Visiting Telford
While visiting Telford, tourists should keep in mind that the whole region may not conform much to the usual ideas of tourism, but it is certainly an off-the-beaten-path destination where history, hard work and passion for industry prevail.
Also, exploring local culinary scene can add a touch of flavor to your trip.
Getting Around in Telford
The best way to get around in Telford is on foot or on rental bicycles/cars. While you may not be able to drive down to certain locations because of their 'heritage site' status, you can find good public transport options in the form of buses and sharing taxis easily.
A handful of Telford hotels also provide their own sightseeing tours that you can sign up for, in order to save much of the hassle.