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Mardol, Roushill & Smithfield Road

Home to an exciting mix of independent businesses and some of your favourite high street names.

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About Mardol and the surrounding areas

Stretching from Shrewsbury’s Pride Hill and Shoplatch down to the River Severn, Mardol and its surrounding streets are home to an exciting mix of independent businesses and some of your favourite high street names. Travelling along the River Severn, Smithfield Road connects the West End to the Castle Quarter. Scattered along the way, you can find a number of Shrewsbury’s bars and pubs. Mardol hosts an exciting mix of nationals and independents, it’s not to be missed if you’re a fan of pre-loved shopping and out-of-the-ordinary eateries. Roushill is home to an exciting mix of independent retailers, eateries and health and beauty specialists. Two pieces of contemporary artwork decorate the area. 'Darwin’s Gate' stands at Mardol Head, and 'The Quantum Leap' on nearby Smithfield Road.

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Notable history

Mardol is one of Shrewsbury’s oldest streets, and in Saxon times was home to tradesmen who gained access to the river via long curving gardens. Some of which are still visible in the outlines either side of King’s Head Passage. By the 15th century, Mardol was home to wealthy merchants living in luxury timber-framed buildings, many of which survive to this day. By the 17th century, the area had become Shrewsbury’s red-light district, providing drinking and entertainment for the river boatmen and their crews. And if you’re passing by – make sure to say hello to the Mardol Dragon hanging on the corner of Roushill and Mardol.

so many places to see

Peter Lowbridge The Walrus June132025 8047
Eat & Drink

The Walrus

Featured in The Michelin Guide 2025Nestled in the heart of Shrewsbury in Shropshire, The Walrus offers seasonal fine dining & A La Carte menu in…

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Number 61

Number 61 boasts a curated selection of products from many of Shropshire's top artists and makers. Discover new and old items in Silver, Gold,…

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Eat & Drink

Café M73

Located in a Grade II listed property on one of Shrewsbury's most historic streets, Café M73 offers Moroccan specialty coffee and bites, alongside…

Open Today 9:00AM - 4:30PM

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Shop

Watson & Thornton

Started after the second world war by Bill Thornton, the present owner's father, trading at Wellington market, the business grew steadily over the…

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Eat & Drink

Osteria

Head to Shrewsbury Osteria to experience true Italian hospitality and enjoy freshly cooked speciality dishes made with the finest ingredients sourced…

Open Today 12:00PM - 10:00PM

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Eat & Drink

The Shrewsbury Hotel

The Shrewsbury Hotel is located opposite the Welsh Bridge and River Severn. It is a J D Wetherspoon hotel, offering superb quality, choice and value,…

Open Today 8:00AM - 12:00AM

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British Heart Foundation

The British Heart Foundation is one of the biggest retailers in the UK, with over 700 shops, including over 160 dedicated Furniture & Electrical…

Open Today 10:00AM - 4:00PM

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Live & Work

BodyTech Health Club

BodyTech is Shrewsbury's longest-running health club, offering extensive state-of-the-art training equipment, fitness classes and personal training…

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Fusion Hair and Beauty

Welcome to Fusion Hair & Beauty Meet our team of creative individuals who aspire to inspire others, with innovative styles of the latest trends…

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Rohan Designs

There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing. Rohan is your constant companion for every journey, whatever the journey. Rohan is an…

Open Today 11:00AM - 4:00PM

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