Admit it, you’re not expecting to find much of an entertainment scene in Shrewsbury, are you? Understandable. Hold your horses, though; don’t go anywhere just yet. Shrewsbury actually has one of the best theatres in the country, a record-breaking football club, a folk festival the envy of the rest of England, and an entertainment venue where there’s something on 364 days a year. This pretty little ‘shire town is full of surprises, isn’t it?
Entertainment in Shrewsbury
Theatre Severn
Ever since it opened its doors in 2009, the stunning Theatre Severn has been turning heads up and down the country. As well as looking the part thanks to its elegant design and picturesque riverside location on Frankwell Quay, the 638-seat main house boasts a brilliantly intimate atmosphere usually found in far smaller theatres. Jason Manford went as far as naming the Theatre Severn as “easily one of the top five theatres in the country”, while it’s also been celebrated for its excellent programme of dance, drama, musicals, opera, and classic plays. As well as the main house, the iconic building also houses the 25-seat Walker Theatre and a popular dance studio.
Theatre Severn
Shrewsbury Town F.C.
Shresbury Town F.C.
As you might expect from one of the oldest towns in the country, the football club has a fair bit of heritage to its name, too. Shrewsbury Town F.C. was first founded way back in 1886, born from the ashes of the Shropshire Wanderers that began life a decade or so before. In all that time, you’d think Shrewsbury Town would have a bit of silverware in its trophy cabinet. And you’d be right; say hello to six-time winners of the Welsh Cup – the record number for an English team.
Admittedly, when it comes to major honours, Shrewsbury is a bit on the barren side. It’s the taking part that counts, and Shrewsbury Town FC is a professional club currently playing in the third division of the football league. Matches tend to take place on Tuesdays and Saturdays, so see if there’s a home game on at New Meadow during your stay at one of our Shrewsbury hotels.
Shrewsbury Folk Festival
Any folk fans in the house? Staying in Shrewsbury over the August bank holiday weekend? My word, do we have a treat in store for you! Head down to the West Midlands Showground – less than fifteen minutes from our Shrewsbury North hotel – and revel in one of the top folk music festivals in the country.
Shrewsbury Folk Festival books some of the most established names from all around the world. Don’t just come for the music; Shrewsbury Folk Festival also hosts a wonderful food village full of delicious eating, real ales, and cocktails. All in all, you’ll struggle to find a festival with a more friendly atmosphere. And the picturesque riverside location is hard to beat, too.
Albert's Shed
Last but by no means least, if you’re looking for an entertainment venue in the heart of Shrewsbury, then Albert’s Shed ticks all the right boxes. Incredibly, it hosts live events seven days a week, 364 days a year. Monday is comedy night, Tuesday is jam night, on Wednesdays Albert’s Shed turns into an acoustic lounge, Thursday is karaoke night, Fridays and Saturdays are for big bands, while Albert ends the week with the acoustic Sunday sessions. It’s not a venue for live music lovers; Albert’s Shed is your place for theatre, cinema, comedy acts and also shows all the major sporting events.
A word to the wise, in the evenings, the main bar room can get busy, while upstairs, Albert’s Loft is a popular destination for cocktails. If it weren’t for Albert’s never-ending entertainment programme, this hot spot would have happily found a home in our local guide to Shrewsbury nightlife, which features some of our favourite bars, pubs and clubs in town.