One of the landmarks of Bridgnorth are the seven sets of historic steps linking Low Town to High Town. For several years these steps have been suffering from lack of attention and were falling into a state of decay. As part of the Market Towns Revitalisation Programme, funding has been obtained to refurbish the steps and the Castle Walk. The project is being led by The Civic Society, with support from Shropshire Council and the Town Council, and organisers are looking for help from anyone who has any insight into the history and heritage of the steps to help with interpretation and information for these untapped gems.
Chris Jephcott, Chairman of Bridgnorth Civic Society told What’s What: “Our local economy depends increasingly on Tourism, focusing on the spectacular setting of the town on the Severn Gorge. Bridgnorth’s character and history were shaped by the Severn and the commerce associated with the waterway, and integral to this were steps which link the town with the river. Strangely, we have found very little documentation on the history of the steps. Local historian Clive Gwilt has supplied us with some very useful information regarding Stoneway and St Mary’s Steps but otherwise our enquiries have largely drawn a blank. This is an exciting project and we are hopeful that in the town there may be people with their own memories of the steps or information which might help fill the gaps in our knowledge.”
If you have information about any of the sets of steps please get in touch!
