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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…

Open Today 6:00PM - 10:00PM

420 sam 7038
Shop

Up & Running

Up & Running is the UK's biggest independent running retailer. It specialises in running shoes, running clothes and running accessories, stocking…

Open Today 9:00AM - 5:30PM

Music Bros
Shop

Music Bros

Music Bros is a music equipment retailer situated on Roushill Bank, renowned for offering a big selection, big names, great service and great prices.…

Open Today 9:30AM - 5:30PM

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Shop

Shropshire Cat Rescue Shop

Shropshire Cat Rescue is a voluntary group that aims to care for and re-home unwanted cats and kittens, educate the public on responsible cat…

Open Today 9:30AM - 4:30PM

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

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

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

Kau Poke
Eat & Drink

Kanu Poké

Kanu Poke is your go-to for vegan and gluten-free Pacific fusion! We love Fish! That's why we don't eat them. Poké is a Hawaiian dish, traditionally…

Open Today 11:00AM - 11:00PM

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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

398 sam 9948
Shop

The Village Listers

The Village Listers UK offers furniture and soft furnishings as well as giftware. The store's product range includes oak and painted furniture,…

Open Today 9:00AM - 5:30PM

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