Highley’s main attractions include railway and industrial history, church architecture and outdoor activities. These differences can help you decide what interests you: Highley Station and The Engine House represent railway history, St Mary’s Church offers a distinctive architectural feature, and the Highley Trail explores the landscape, local community and industrial heritage. There are also cycling routes nearby and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool.
Railways and Mining in Highley
Highley Station has remained largely unchanged since it was built in 1862. In the past, it was an important transport hub for four nearby coal mines. The Engine House includes King George VI’s royal saloon carriage, as well as exhibitions about railway history. The exhibitions may change over time. This places the station’s former importance to coal mine transport alongside the railway history presented at The Engine House as distinct points of interest.
The Station Road Site also reflects Highley’s mining history: it marks the location of the first mine shaft sunk in Highley. Highley Station and The Engine House can be reached via a narrow access road from the B4555 near Highley. Road conditions and parking arrangements may change; check them before travelling.
Church Architecture and Local History
The Church of St Mary in Highley is listed on the National Heritage List for England. Its features include a chancel and nave dating from the early 12th century; later alterations were made around 1500. The churchyard of St Mary forms the southern boundary of the Highley Conservation Area. As well as its own architectural history, the church therefore provides a specific point of reference for the boundary of this historic area.
Walking and Cycling
The Highley Trail is 3.5 miles long. It explores themes including Highley’s local community, rivers, far-reaching views, wildlife and industrial heritage. The walking route therefore brings together nature and local life with the industrial history also associated with the station and the Station Road Site.
For cycling, the Severn Valley Country Park and the area around Highley Station are two key points of reference: the Mercian Way, part of National Cycle Network Route 45, runs through the park. The Route 45 Cycleway runs near Highley Station.
Outdoor Swimming Pool and Practical Information
The Severn Centre in Highley has a heated 25-metre outdoor swimming pool with four lanes. It is open seasonally. There are dedicated sessions for adults, Aquafit and swimming lessons; session times and classes may vary by season. If you plan to swim, check which sessions are currently scheduled before your visit.
The library at the Severn Centre can provide local bus timetables. If you plan to travel by bus, check the timetables for your travel dates. This will help you incorporate information about activities and local transport into your trip planning.
Discover more destinations: Llanyblodwel, Bishops Castle, Alveley, Shifnal, Halford, Sutton Maddock, Myddle, Hopesay
For the broader travel overview: Shropshire.
