Newport
Local Info
Newport is a historic market town in Shropshire, England, located approximately 6 miles north of Telford and 12 miles west of Stafford. The area around Newport was inhabited long before the town's creation. It was situated in the historic kingdom of MerciaThe land was part of the manor of Edgmond, granted to Roger, Earl of Shrewsbury, by William I.Henry I founded the borough, initially called "Newborough," after the manor came into his possession. A market charter granted by Henry I in the 12th century laid out the medieval footprint of the town. A devastating fire in 1665 rendered many families homeless and caused extensive damage. This led to Newport's rebuilding in the Georgian architectural style, which is still prominent today. In the 1830s, the Shropshire Union Canal was cut through the north of the town, connecting it to the national network. Although parts are no longer in use, some "in-water" sections remain, including remnants of a wharf created from a medieval fishing pool. Newport serves as a commercial center for a wide area of northeast Shropshire. The town has a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, and a grand indoor market hall. Like much of Shropshire, Newport benefits from a strong small business economy and a high economic activity rate among its working-age populatrity. Newport offers a blend of historical charm, outdoor activities, and local experience. Weald Moors: Newport has a strong connection to the surrounding Weald Moors, offering walking trails, bike paths, and wafields to see rows of beautiful delphiniums, cornflowers, sunflowers, and wildflowers.Newport is also a good base for visiting nearby attractions like the Iron Bridge. Newport is a charming and historic market town located in the borough of Telford and Wrekin, Shropshire, England. It sits about 7 miles northeast of Telford and 12 miles west of Stafford, close to the Shropshire-Staffordshire border. Here's a general overview: History and Character: Newport's roots go back to medieval times, with its foundation linked to a market charter granted by Henry I in the 12th century. It developed a strong reputation as a medieval fishery due to the surrounding wetlands of the Weald Moors, a connection still reflected in the town's crest (three fish) and the name of its parish church, St. Nicholas (patron saint of fishermen). A devastating fire in 1665 led to a significant rebuilding effort, resulting in the Georgian architectural style that largely defines its attractive town centre today. While it lost its railway services in the mid-1960s, the former railway line now forms part of the National Cycle Network. The Shropshire Union Canal, cut through the town in the 1830s, also highlights its historical transport link Newport serves as a vital commercial hub for northeast Shropshire. Its economy is largely driven by local businesses, with a vibrant high street featuring independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. The historic indoor market hall (built in 1860) remains a central point for local trade. While the broader Shropshire business community has faced economic challenges, Newport maintains a degree of resilience, benefiting from its strong local retail and service sectors. Education: Newport is particularly well-known for its excellent grammar schools: Haberdashers' Adams (formerly Adams' Grammar School): A selective state grammar school with a long history (founded 1656), now transitioning to fully co-educational. It is highly regarded for its academic standards. Newport Girls' High School (NGHS): Another top-performing selective grammar school for girls, consistently achieving outstanding results and rated as such by Ofsted. Burton Borough School: A comprehensive secondary school that provides a high-quality education to local students. Explore the Georgian architecture, independent shops, and the bustling Market Hall. offers opportunities for walking, cycling, and exploring the area's natural beauty. Shropshire Petal Fields: Seasonal attraction offering stunning floral displays. Proximity to wider attractions: Newport is conveniently located for visiting places like the Iron Bridge, Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World, and the Royal Air Force Museum Midlands.
