Blists Hill Victorian Town is a living history museum located in Telford, England, in the county of Shropshire. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area, offering visitors a chance to explore a unique Victorian era village and experience the industrial revolution up close. With a wide range of historic attractions, Blists Hill Victorian Town is the perfect family day out for anyone looking to learn more about the past.
History of Blists Hill Victorian Town
Blists Hill Victorian Town was opened in 1975 by the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust. It is a reconstruction of a village from the late Victorian era, and is built on the site of an old coal mine. The village is designed to look and feel like a typical Victorian-era village, with buildings, shops, and workshops that are all based on the architecture and design of the time.
Attractions at Blists Hill Victorian Town
Blists Hill Victorian Town has a wide range of attractions for visitors to explore. These include:
- The Bank – a replica of a Victorian-era bank, complete with a bank manager and clerks.
- The Chemist – a shop selling traditional Victorian medicines and remedies.
- The Bakery – a bakery selling freshly-baked bread, cakes, and other treats.
- The Post Office – a post office where visitors can send and receive mail.
- The Forge – a blacksmith’s workshop where visitors can watch blacksmiths at work.
- The Foundry – a foundry where visitors can watch workers making cast iron products.
- The Chapel – a replica of a Victorian-era chapel, complete with a vicar and congregation.
- The School – a replica of a Victorian-era school, complete with a schoolmaster and pupils.
What to Expect at Blists Hill Victorian Town
When visiting Blists Hill Victorian Town, visitors can expect to be transported back in time to the late Victorian era. The village is filled with costumed characters who are all dressed in period clothing, and visitors can also take part in activities such as blacksmithing and pottery-making. The village also hosts a range of special events throughout the year, such as Christmas markets and Easter egg hunts.
Tours at Blists Hill Victorian Town
Blists Hill Victorian Town offers visitors the chance to take part in guided tours of the village. The tours are led by experienced guides who will take visitors on a journey through the history of the village and the industrial revolution. The tours are available in both English and Welsh, and are suitable for all ages.
Admission to Blists Hill Victorian Town
Admission to Blists Hill Victorian Town is free for Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust members, while non-members must pay a small fee. The fee includes access to all of the attractions in the village, as well as the opportunity to take part in guided tours.
Tips for Tourists Visiting Blists Hill Victorian Town
- Plan your visit in advance – make sure to check the website for opening times and special events.
- Wear comfortable shoes – the village is quite large and there is a lot of walking involved.
- Bring a camera – there are plenty of photo opportunities in the village.
- Talk to the costumed characters – the staff are all knowledgeable about the history of the village and are always happy to answer any questions.
- Pack a picnic – there are several picnic areas around the village where visitors can enjoy a bite to eat.
Practical Information for Blists Hill Victorian Town
- Address: Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge Gorge, Telford, Shropshire, TF7 5DU, United Kingdom
- Opening Times: 10:00am – 5:00pm (April – October), 10:00am – 4:00pm (November – March)
- Admission: Free for Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust members, £10.00 for non-members
- Parking: Free parking is available in the car park opposite the village
Conclusion
Blists Hill Victorian Town is a unique and fascinating tourist destination in Telford, England. With its wide range of historic attractions, it is the perfect place to explore the Victorian era and experience the industrial revolution up close. With free admission for Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust members, and a range of special events throughout the year, Blists Hill Victorian Town is the perfect family day out for anyone looking to learn more about the past.
