Shrewsbury crowned Britain’s best high street for second year running
Shrewsbury has once again been named Britain’s number one high street, after topping The Telegraph’s list of the UK’s finest shopping destinations for the second year in a row.
The newspaper’s travel experts ranked Shropshire’s county town number one in its 2025 list of 20 standout high streets – placing Shrewsbury above 19 destinations including Norwich, Bury St Edmunds, Edinburgh and more – praising the town’s independent spirit, historic streets and distinctive shopping experience.
In the article, The Telegraph describes Shrewsbury as:
“With its meandering streets and blush-sandstone castle wrapped in a loop of the Severn, Shropshire’s compact county town is ideal for wandering and window shopping.”
The coverage highlights the town’s award-winning covered market and singles out Wyle Cop for particular praise, calling it “a curving, climbing high street lined with 39 listed buildings, ranging from medieval half-timbered to Victorian ornate.”
The article also notes the street’s rich history – from Henry Tudor’s visit in 1485 to Charles Darwin’s favourite coaching inns – and adds that today Wyle Cop is said to be the longest run of independent shops in the country.
This accolade reinforces Shrewsbury’s growing national reputation as a thriving, independent town centre at a time when many high streets continue to face significant challenges.
Cllr Rob Wilson, Portfolio Holder for Transport and Economy at Shropshire Council, said:
“To be named Britain’s best high street for a second consecutive year is an outstanding achievement for Shrewsbury and a testament to the strength of its local economy.
“This recognition reflects the commitment of our independent businesses, the character of the town centre and the continued collaboration between partners to ensure Shrewsbury remains a vibrant and attractive place to visit, work and invest.”
Local businesses have also welcomed the news, particularly as it shines a spotlight on the town’s independent retail scene.
Pollyanna Williams, who owns Snoop, one of the independent retailers spotlighted in the Telegraph’s article, said:
“I'm so pleased to see Shrewsbury named as Britain’s Best High Street for a second year running. I’ve been a part of the Wyle Cop’s independent scene since 2023; properties are sought after on the street, so I feel very lucky be in the thick of it all.
Opening here was the best decision I’ve ever made. We have such wonderful customers locally and further afield, who travel far and wide to visit us. Shrewsbury’s like no other town I’ve ever come across - it really is a gem!”
The accolade adds to a growing list of national recognitions for Shrewsbury’s town centre and reinforces its position as one of the UK’s most distinctive and successful high streets.
Seb Slater, Executive Director of Shrewsbury BID, said, “Being named Britain’s best high street for a second year running is a fantastic achievement, particularly at a time when high street businesses are facing real challenges.
“This recognition reflects the hard work, resilience and commitment of Shrewsbury’s traders, and sends a strong message about the value of vibrant town centres and the people who keep them thriving.”
