Bridgnorth

Perched around the banks of the meandering River Severn, the large and historic market town of Bridgnorth has a population of around 12,000.

Although the areas history can be traced back to around 895, the town was not created until 1101 when Robert de Belesme, son of Roger de Montgomerie, constructed a castle to defend against attacks from Wales, the ruins of which can still be seen today.

Interestingly, the town is split into two parts; Low Town and High Town, linked by road and a funicular railway called the Castle Hill Railway, the only one of its type in the country.

Other notable landmarks include the Bridgnorth railway station, which lies on the tourist line, the Severn Valley Railway, the 18th century St Mary's Church, the 17th century town hall and the surviving old town gate, called Northgate.

Also of note is the Theatre on the Steps, a theatre converted from a chapel which dates from 1709, and is still in operation today and hosting regular productions.

Bridgnorth has become an extremely busy and popular hive of activity, with its weekly markets, excellent leisure facilities and numerous pubs.

It has two good secondary schools, Bridgnorth Endowed and Oldbury Wells.