This year is very special for the Ironbridge Gorge in Shropshire’s stunning Severn Valley as it marks the 25th anniversary since it was designated as one of the UK’s first World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in November 1986, alongside such sites as Stonehenge and the Giant’s Causeway. A series of exciting events, festivals and activities is planned to celebrate this significant milestone, which look back over its history and forward to the next 25 years.
Describing the area UNESCO said, ”Ironbridge is known throughout the world as the symbol of the Industrial Revolution. It contains all the elements of progress that contributed to the rapid development of this industrial region in the 18th century”. Sites and buildings from early industry survive but the Gorge is now a peaceful and beautiful place to visit; and home to the ten Ironbridge Gorge Museums which reflect its history over the past 300 years.
Amongst the first celebratory events will be a free entry exhibition showcasing fascinating, historic images alongside contemporary photography at the Footprint Gallery at Jackfield Tile Museum from 1st July – 30th September (open daily 10am – 5pm). Anyone with interesting photographs or special memories of the World Heritage Site over the years is invited to contact the museum with a view to their memorabilia being included in the display.
The highpoint of the celebrations will be on Saturday 24th September with the World Heritage Site Festival. A huge street market will fill the Gorge and throughout the day there will be live entertainment including brass bands, choirs, street entertainers and historic characters in costume as well as lots of fun interactive activities for youngsters. In the evening the Iron Bridge will be illuminated in spectacular style and a firework display will light the night sky.
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