Mardol header

Mardol, Roushill & Smithfield Road

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

Mardol 1

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.

Mardol3

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…

94468551 104495067908121 963718119224770560 o
Eat & Drink

Shrewsbury BBQ & Grill

Brand new to Shrewsbury! Shrewsbury BBQ & Grill offers some delicious BBQ food on the grill such as chicken, lamb, beef burgers, chicken burgers,…

Open Today 3:00PM - 12:00AM

390 sam 9943
Eat & Drink

The Ploughboy Cafe

The Ploughboy on Mardol is the perfect place to enjoy breakfast and a coffee in the morning.

Open Today 7:00AM - 5:00PM

165463073 100970942098423 8613687048152387202 n
Eat & Drink

The Salopian Bar & Garden

Situated alongside the River Severn, the Salopian Bar is a unique establishment, offering a great selection of real ales, Belgian beers and ciders,…

Kitchen Depot (1)
Live & Work

The Kitchen Depot

The Kitchen Depot Shrewsbury has recently moved into a fantastic new showroom for our customers to browse our stylish kitchen displays and bring…

320 sam 9963
Shop

Severn Hospice

Severn Hospice is an independent charity providing free specialist care and support to families throughout Shropshire and North Powys who are living…

Open Today 9:00AM - 5:00PM

19942976 1583743804990088 3581774115420959504 o copy
Shop

Ellerker Opticians

Based in the heart of historic Shrewsbury, Ellerker Opticians has been providing friendly and professional eye care for over 20 years. Under new…

Open Today 9:00AM - 5:30PM

Watson and thornton
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…

Open Today 10:00AM - 4:00PM

407 shrewsburybid new 68
Shop

The Lighting Shop

The Lighting Shop really does do exactly what it says on the tin! The store on Mardol sells a range of wall lights, lampshades, ceiling lights and…

Open Today 9:30AM - 5:30AM

211 sam 9951
Eat & Drink

The King's Head

The Kings Head is one of the oldest and best-known pubs in the county town, located on Mardol, close to the River Severn and surrounded by shops and…

Open Today 10:30AM - 10:00PM

Join our newsletter

Sign up to our Original Shrewsbury newsletter to be first in the know about upcoming events, offers and promotions. We'll also send you handy guides to help you make the most of what our beautiful town has to offer.