The Quarry
Sightseeing attraction | Shrewsbury | England | United Kingdom
Visiting parks in Shrewsbury
The Quarry in Shrewsbury, England, is the main leisure park of the county town of Shropshire and one of the most significant public green spaces in the region. Covering an area of approximately 12 hectares, it is located in the heart of the town, surrounded by a majestic loop of the River Severn, which almost completely encircles Shrewsbury. Since its creation in 1719, the park has evolved into a central place for relaxation, walks, and events, and is now the most widely used public park in the county. Its proximity to the town center makes it particularly attractive to both locals and visitors alike.
Historical parks in England
The origin of the name "The Quarry" dates back to the medieval history of the site, when it was actually used as a stone and clay quarry. Between the 14th and 16th centuries, the area was known as the "Wet Quarry" or "Water Quarry" because it was frequently flooded. In the 18th century, the land was acquired by the town, and under the direction of Thomas Wright, the first avenues of lime trees were planted, laying the foundation for the park we see today. In the 19th century, the Shropshire Horticultural Society funded extensive renovations that transformed the park into a well-maintained Victorian facility.
Blooming gardens in Shropshire
A central feature of the Quarry is the Dingle, a former quarry that has now been transformed into a sunken garden. This area was turned into a floral masterpiece by the world-renowned gardener Percy Thrower, who served as Parks Superintendent of Shrewsbury for 28 years. The Dingle features alpine borders, vibrant flower beds, shrubs, and charming water features such as ponds and fountains. Numerous memorial benches and a bust of Percy Thrower invite visitors to linger. According to legend, the Dingle is haunted by the witch Mrs. Foxall, who was burned at the stake in the 16th century nearby for witchcraft and murder, adding a mysterious touch to the place.
Walks along the Severn River
The park offers much more than just the Dingle. Along the River Severn, the Victoria Avenue stretches, a wide, traffic-free promenade lined with lime trees – a second generation, after the original trees were chopped down in the 1950s. This avenue is ideal for walks and offers picturesque views of the river. Other attractions include the statue of Hercules, originally from Condover Hall and now standing on the riverbank, as well as a Victorian bandstand from 1879, donated by the Shropshire Horticultural Society and used for events. The park also includes a children's playground, a water play area, and open meadows perfect for picnics or sports activities.
Events at Quarry Park
The Quarry is a cultural and social hub of Shrewsbury. Every August, the Shrewsbury Flower Show, one of the largest horticultural exhibitions in the UK, transforms the park into a sea of flowers with over three million blooms, accompanied by show jumping, military bands, and a spectacular fireworks display. Other events such as the Shrewsbury Regatta, dragon boat races, the Darwin Festival, and the annual carnival regularly animate the grounds. In the past, large concerts with artists like Jools Holland or the Sugababes have also taken place here, although such events have occasionally been controversial due to their impact on the park.
The nature in the Quarry is also remarkable. The River Severn attracts waterfowl such as ducks and swans, while the low-lying areas serve as natural floodplains during high waters. Historical relics such as a Harley family anchor stone, recalling past grazing fields, or remains of an old ferry post, tell of the park's long history of use. For walkers, there are numerous paths, including the Riverside Walk, which runs along the river and provides a link to nearby restaurants and pubs.
