"Lovely garden out by the River Severn and a really nice restaurant."
Gary B from United Kingdom
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"Probably one of the nicest Sunday lunches i have had, so nicely presented and very tasty."
Glenda B from United Kingdom
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"Our room was spacious, comfortable and clean."
BRJ_10 from United Kingdom
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"It's beautiful outside with the river just a few feet away."
Jodi p from United Kingdom
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Boutique pub hotel on the River Severn in Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site
Dining
The Water Rat operates a steakhouse menu built around high-quality locally sourced produce. Guests choose from diverse options including gluten-free selections and a healthcare-inspired menu that focuses on quality local ingredients. A complimentary continental breakfast is served each morning in a dining room overlooking the garden.
Rooms
En-suite rooms are set in a Georgian house adjacent to the inn, offering spacious layouts with en-suite showers and baths. Room categories include Family Rooms, Superior Double Rooms, and Deluxe Double Rooms with Shower, all noted for their size and comfort. Guests appreciate amenities such as large TVs, sofas, and a hallway fridge stocked with chilled water and extra milk.
Location & Activities
The hotel sits within the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site, a short riverside walk from Ironbridge town centre and its museums. On-site activities include kayaking and hiking, with a riverside garden serving as a base for outdoor exploration. Nearby attractions such as Blists Hill Victorian Town and Wroxeter Roman City are within a 20-minute drive.
Family & Pet-Friendly
Family rooms accommodate groups requiring additional space, and the hotel provides kids' meals on request. Pets are allowed throughout the property, and the large garden with river views offers a safe area for children and dogs to play. A 5-minute walk through Dale Park along the river adds family-friendly access to the town.
Events & Business
The private event space, The Rat Den, is available for celebrations, gatherings, and meetings. Meeting and banquet facilities come with full catering from the steakhouse menu, and the hotel offers accessible parking spaces close to the entrance. Free parking on a large, secure lot and a 24-hour check-in process via keypad entry suit both business travellers and event organisers.
Highlights
Location: Riverside setting in Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site
Dining: Steakhouse menu with locally sourced produce
Rooms: Georgian en-suite rooms with family and superior options
Activities: On-site kayaking and hiking from the garden
Family: Pet-friendly with kids' meals and large garden
Events: The Rat Den private event space for gatherings
Must-do experiences
Stroll through the Iron Bridge Gorge for stunning views and history.
Visit the Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron for fascinating industrial heritage.
Enjoy a hearty Staffordshire oatcake breakfast at The Tea Emporium.
Explore the hidden paths of the picturesque Benthall Hall gardens.
Don't miss the vibrant Ironbridge Markets for local crafts and treats.
Select your room type
The Water Rat features a range of room types across England, from double and family rooms to suites, with breakfast, free cancellation, and special offers included
Deluxe Double Room Shower
2 persons
20 m²
1 King-size bed
Shower
room details
Family Room
2 persons
30 m²
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Superior Double Room
2 persons
18 m²
1 Double bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your stay in England now!
September 2026 - September 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
The Water Rat provides amenities to make your stay in England comfortable and memorable
Facilities: Great
8.6/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Parking
No pets allowed
Sports & Fitness
Canoeing
Hiking
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Services
Housekeeping
Dining
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Business
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Children
Children's menu
Spa & Leisure
Sun terrace
Garden area
Room features
Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Sitting area
Terrace
Tea and coffee facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
Room decor
Carpeted floor
Show more
The Water Rat: Location in England
Buildwas Road, Ironbridge, TF8 7BJ,
Explore Ironbridge
Local Highlights near The Water Rat
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Museum of the Gorge
10 minutes walking
Engaging museum showcasing the history of the Ironbridge Gorge with exhibits on the area's industrial past.
The Iron Bridge
16-minute walk
Iconic iron construction symbolizing the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, featuring scenic riverside views.
Blists Hill Victorian Town
9-minute drive
Living museum depicting Victorian life with costumed characters, shops, and traditional crafts to witness and enjoy.
Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron
20 minutes walking
Museum focusing on the history of ironmaking, exhibiting historical artifacts and providing guided tours.
Hiking in Dale End Park
7 minutes walking
Scenic park perfect for walking trails, family picnics, and playgrounds, ideal for leisurely strolls.
Skiing at Telford Snowboard and Ski Centre
10-minute drive
Thrilling skiing and snowboarding experiences available seasonally with equipment rentals and lessons for all levels.
The Meadow Inn
1 minute walking
Charming local pub featuring classic British cuisine, hearty ales, and friendly service. Reservations recommended.
The Haven Restaurant
2-minute drive
Inviting atmosphere serving locally sourced dishes, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Ideal for casual dining.
The Green Shutter
5-minute drive
Cozy bar hosting live music events and trivia nights, perfect for a night out with friends or a low-key evening.
Ironbridge Gorge Theatre
10 minutes walking
Local theatre featuring diverse performances, including family shows and community events in a welcoming space.
Getting around England
City Centre
Ironbridge 20 min · 1.6 km
Airports
Birmingham (BHX) 123 min · 81.9 km
Chester Hawarden (CEG) 140 min · 93.1 km
Bus
Bus stop 10 min · 6.1 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-20:30
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
6
Former name
Meadow Inn Steakhouse
Guest Reviews and Ratings
What previous guests said about staying at The Water Rat.
Review score
Based on 323 verified reviews
8.7 /10
Great
90 %
Recommend
Breakfast
9.5/10
Cleanliness
8.9/10
Comfort
8.7/10
Facilities
8.6/10
Free WiFi
8.5/10
Location
9.2/10
Paid Wi-Fi
10.0/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
8.8/10
Pros
Really good staff service
Scenic location
Cons
Inconsistent food quality
Room noise levels
Guest reviews
based on 567 reviews
8.6/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
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Questions of the users
About The Water Rat
Is there a room specifically designed for guests with disabilities?
05 February 2024
There is a family room available on the lowest floor that may be suitable, but it does have a small step for access. It features a spacious layout and a large bathroom. It's recommended to call directly for more details before booking.
What is the best way to reserve the family room that includes a double bed and two single beds?
14 March 2024
To book the family room, it's advised to make a reservation through the website or contact directly for assistance.
Is there an outdoor area where guests can relax and enjoy drinks?
22 March 2024
Yes, there is a large beer garden and decking space where guests can enjoy drinks and meals while taking in the views.
Are there options for a full English breakfast available?
11 April 2024
Yes, a full English breakfast is offered along with a selection of cereals and yoghurts.
Is there onsite parking available for guests?
18 April 2024
Yes, there is a car park available for guests onsite.
Do the rooms come with tea and coffee-making facilities?
30 May 2024
Yes, each room is equipped with tea and coffee facilities.
What time can guests check out on their departure day?
12 June 2024
Check-out is typically at 11:00 am, but a late check-out until noon can be arranged with prior notice.
Are pets allowed in any areas of the hotel?
23 June 2024
The main restaurant and bar areas are dog-friendly for well-behaved dogs, but pets are not allowed in the rooms.
What recreational activities are available nearby?
05 July 2024
The Water Rat is ideally situated near walking paths, historic sites, and numerous attractions in the scenic Shropshire area, making it a great base for exploring.
Can special dietary requirements be accommodated in the menu?
15 July 2024
Yes, there is a variety of dietary options available, including gluten-free dishes, with prior notice recommended.
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