A pretty little UK market town has such an odd name it sounds like it should be in a Harry Potter novel. Much Wenlock is a small town in the Shropshire Hills with a population of around 3,000 people.
The town has been included in lists of the best places to live in the UK, including the Sunday Times’ list in 2019.
It was historically the main town in the borough of Wenlock, with “Much” added to distinguish it from nearby Little Wenlock.
“Wenlock” likely comes from the Celtic “wininicas”, meaning “white area” and referring to local limestone deposits, and the Old English “loca”, meaning enclosed space.
The area played a large role in the 19th-century revival of the Olympic Games. Dr William Penny Brookes started a local games in 1850, which inspired the modern Olympic Movement.
This is why, in 2012, one of the London Olympics mascots was called Wenlock. There is still a town games every July.
Much Wenlock has a rich history, with sights including holy wells, shuts (very narrow alleyways), cobblestone streets, whipping posts, stocks and more.
Among the places to visit are the Guildhall, the parish church, the museum, and the 13th-century priory ruins. And the high street is made up of medieval, Tudor, Georgian and Victorian buildings.
There are also traditional independent shops selling everything from antiques and books to sweets and wool to explore, as well as multiple restaurants and cafes to enjoy.
In the nearby area are the world’s first Iron Bridge and Tollhouse, the 16th-century mansion Benthall Hall, the ruins of Buildwas Abbey and the Severn Valley Railway.
The area is also popular among walkers with a handful of routes through the town and lots in the surrounding countryside.
One visitor called Much Wenlock a “lovely peaceful setting” that’s pleasant to stroll through. Another called it a “stunning place” that’s “beautifully quiet”.
The town has an average house price of £425,895 according to Rightmove, and £443,637 according to Zoopla.
Much Wenlock has a couple of inns where visitors can stay, as well as a campsite.
There is also accommodation in surrounding towns and villages. The town can be found by car via the A458 and by train to nearby Telford and Shrewsbury.
