Landscape Detective

Throughout Shropshire’s history the activities of its peoples and events have left permanent reminders on the landscape. Many of these are still visible today from stunning hillforts like the one shown here at Bury Ditches, to the industrial heritage around Coalbrookdale and Telford New Town. Often these are the only clues we have about the county’s past, while at other times they illustrate what we already know about our ancestors' daily lives, beliefs and surroundings.

This is Madeley Wood, which was transformed in the 18th century from a wooded hillside to the largest industrial community in the area. 3,500 people lived here and worked in the iron industry.