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It’s English Tourism Week – so what better time to show off some areas around the university to anyone who hasn’t experienced them first hand? 

Newport 

First up is the nearest town to Harper and full of all the amenities you will need while you are studying with us. 

It’s Idyllic and picturesque, with a really interesting history including the fabled legend of Madam Piggot and a royalty hotspot.  

There are pubs and bars aplenty and once an upon a time one of them was owned by Ozzy Osbourne. We’re not joking. 

You can take a walk down the canal, grab a coffee in one of its many independent cafes and restaurants or try some fish and chips from Jones’ or the famous Raja’s special after hitting the town’s night club – Central Square. 

Telford  

Just a hop, skip and a jump from Newport is Telford – one of the UK’s fastest growing new towns! 

Here you will find everything from modern shopping centres, bowling alleys, ice rinks, cinemas and an adventure park. 

There is plenty of great food to choose from if nothing floats your boats on campus – with Italian, Japanese, Indian and Mexican restaurants can all be found in the new Southwater complex.  

Oakengates in Telford is also home to The Place theatre where you can get the chance to catch a show, watch a comedy act or attend a concert.  

Shrewsbury  

The birthplace of Charles Darwin, the execution place of the last independent Prince of Wales and the home of Shropshire’s Harry Potter shop. 

Shrewsbury is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, county history and blooming marvellous horticulture. With its epic Tudor buildings, incredible quarry park where many of the counties biggest festivals are held including the Shrewsbury Food Festival.  

Shrewsbury is the perfect place to unwind and while away an afternoon. However, if relaxing is not your thing, there is plenty to do in Shropshire’s county town.  

You could visit the town’s 11th Century castle, take a selfie with Charles Darwin (well, his statue), or even pay your respects at the (Hollywood prop) graveside of Ebenezer Scrooge.  

Shrewsbury Prison, is now a tourist attraction that offers ghost hunts and escape rooms, and if you want to release your inner Viking, why not try a bit of axe throwing? 

There is also plenty within driving distance, Church Stretton is only 30 minutes away and with its stunning walks and views, you’ll quickly come to realise why Shropshire is renowned for its beauty.  

Ironbridge  

A trip to Shropshire would not be complete without a visit to the incredible Ironbridge – it isn’t a world heritage site for nothing, you know!  

Known as the birthplace of the industrial revolution, Ironbridge is home to ten award winning museums, including Enginuity (don’t miss out on the interactive water plant and steam train), 

Blists Hill Victorian Town (The fish and chips are incredible) and the first ever iron bridge built in 1779. Definitely worth a visit! 

Stafford  

 A 30-minute drive and across the border and you’ll find yourself in Staffordshire and its county town of Stafford.  

Known for its Ancient High House, oatcakes and the sprawling deer trails of Cannock Chase – J.R.R Tolkien is supposed to have cycled through them but these days it’s a mountain bikers paradise. 

Stafford is the perfect place to grab a coffee and relax with friends, but also loved by  our  students for the nights out.  

If you are looking for an interesting day out Trentham and its Monkey Forest (yes, there are actually monkeys here) is only 20 mins away from town and offers great discounts to students!  

If you are considering joining the Harper Adams student community and want to know more about the local area, why not ask as student via harper.ac.uk/askme