Car rental Telford

Parking in Telford

• There are more than 4,000 parking spaces across seven car parks in Telford Centre.
• Brown Elm Car Park is a Long Stay car park on Southwater Way, with more than 1000 spaces.

Traffic in Telford

Telford is a small town, so traffic tends to be kept at a minimum. However, it will be busier than usual during rush hour. This is around 7am to 9am and 5pm to 7pm.

How to get from Telford Central Train Station to The Wrekin

Telford Central Train Station, situated just off Queensway in the centre of Telford, is just 15 minutes from The Wrekin hill.

To get to from the train station to The Wrekin:

1. Drive out of the station on Euston Way
2. At the roundabout, take the fourth exit onto Rampart Way
3. At Forge roundabout, take the second exit
4. Join the M54 and continue until you reach Holyhead Road
5. Turn left on the B5061 and follow it to the car park, where you can park up and join the walking trail.

Roads and motorways

Main routes in Telford

• The M54 runs north of Telford, taking you towards Shrewsbury in the west and Birmingham and Wolverhampton in the east.
• The A442 goes through the town from north to south. It takes you to Kidderminster in the south and joins the A518 north towards Stafford.

Telford to London

If you fancy seeing Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, then you’re just over three hours away from London. Take the M54 out of the town, then join the M6 followed by the M42 alongside Birmingham. The M40 will then take you to the capital.

Telford to Leeds 

It’s just two and a half hours to Leeds in the north. Drive towards Birmingham on the M54 and M6. Then join the A38 followed by the M1, which takes you to the centre of this northern city.

What to see and do in Telford

Ironbridge

Telford is known as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. There are several museums where you can learn more about this history.

The Ironbridge UNESCO World Heritage Site is just one example of the town’s industrial heritage. The bridge, which is situated on the Ironbridge Gorge over the River Severn, was the first to be made from cast iron. You can only walk across it, so you’ll have to park up your rental car to get a closer look.

Wonderland

If you’re travelling with young children, then you won’t want to miss Wonderland (TF4 3PA). The park is situated within nine acres of woodland on the eastern edge of the town. You can meet fairy-tale characters and enjoy the rides. The kids will love walking through Dinosaur Valley and playing crazy golf on the Jolly Roger. Parking is available nearby but there may be a charge.    

Hoo Farm Animal Kingdom

Lemurs, llamas, meerkats, snakes, tortoises and parrots are just a few of the animals you can see at Hoo Farm Animal Kingdom (TF6 6DJ). There is also the opportunity to feed and meet your favourites. Parking is available onsite.

The Wrekin

One of Telford’s most famous landmarks can be seen from across the town and beyond. Climb to the top and you’ll be treated to views over the Shropshire Hills. On a clear day, you can see 17 counties from up here. If the rumours are true, this was J.R.R Tolkien’s inspiration for Middle Earth.  

Telford’s best hotels

The Old Orleton Inn

This 17th century Old Orleton Inn (TF1 2HA) faces Wrekin Hill and is just a short distance from attractions such as the Iron Bridge. It was named one of the town’s 50 buildings of interest during 50th anniversary celebrations   

Telford Hotel & Golf Resort

The four-star Telford Hotel & Golf Resort (TF7 4DT) is situated in 170 acres of grounds in the Shropshire countryside, just five minutes from the centre of Telford. It overlooks the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ironbridge Gorge. There’s an 18-hole golf course, 24-hour gym and spa, so you can treat yourself to a facial or massage. 

Hadley Park House Hotel

The award-winning four-star Hadley Park House Hotel (TF1 6QJ) is situated in an 18th century Georgian house, surrounded by two acres of landscaped gardens. Afternoon tea can be enjoyed on the terrace during summer after a morning of sightseeing. If you are heading here as newlyweds, there’s also a honeymoon suite. 

Telford’s best places to eat

Restaurant Severn

Situated a stone’s throw from the River Severn and the Iron Bridge, this restaurant serves modernised British classics and puts a twist on European dishes. Visit for Sunday lunch after a walk in the surrounding countryside and make sure to save room for dessert. 

Restaurant 1840

This restaurant is situated in a restored Methodist church and is one of the oldest buildings in Telford. The tables are made from church pews, the pulpit has become the reception and stained-glass windows have been replicated. You’ll enjoy delicious, hearty meals such as lamb rump and beef fillet in this unique setting. 

Jenkos Mongolian Barbecue 

Enjoy fresh meat, fish and vegetables with your choice of spices and sauces at this all you can eat Mongolian BBQ north of Telford centre. The rustic log cabin with an open fire, lanterns and fairy light offers a cozy place to tuck into your meal.

Best day trips from Telford

Birmingham

The lively and vibrant city of Birmingham is less than an hour away on the M54. It’s often known as the UK’s second city. Chocolate lovers will be in heaven at Cadbury World, where you can discover how chocolate made and sample the sweet treat.

Snowdonia National Park

It’s around an hour and forty minutes on the A5 to Mount Snowdon from Telford. Take your hiking boots and follow one of the trails to the top. Alternatively, board the train and enjoy the view without the effort. While you are here, thrillseekers might like to experience Snowdonia zip wire, the longest and fastest in the UK. 

Peak District National Park

Drive an hour and a half north east from Telford for picturesque views at the Peak District National Park. Park up the car and take a hike or cycle in the tranquil surroundings. There are various outdoor activities you can do here, including horse riding.