"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 in Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site
Dining
The Water Rat is known locally for its Steakhouse menu, which uses only high-quality locally sourced produce. The hotel offers a healthcare-inspired menu with a focus on quality local ingredients and gluten-free selections. Guests can enjoy meals in the riverside garden, which provides scenic outdoor dining and access to a terrace.
Rooms
The hotel offers boutique en-suite rooms in a Georgian house next to the pub building, all spacious and well-appointed with en suite showers and baths. Each room features Georgian charm combined with modern comforts, and some include split-level layouts with private bathrooms. Guests have access to a mini fridge in the hallway with water and milk, and the rooms are located in a separate annex for privacy.
Location
The Water Rat sits within the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site, just 1 mile from the Ironbridge town centre and a short walk to the iconic Iron Bridge. A 5-minute walk through the garden and along the River Severn leads directly to the centre, avoiding the main road. Nearby attractions include the Ironbridge Gorge Museums, Blists Hill Victorian Town, and Wroxeter Roman City.
Entertainment & Activities
On-site activities include canoeing, hiking, movie nights, and pub crawls, with the river providing direct access for kayaking. The hotel has a private bar called 'The Rat Den' for event hosting, plus a garden and terrace for outdoor gatherings. Guests can relax in the beer garden overlooking the river, with a gate providing direct access to the riverbank walk.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
The hotel offers family rooms that are spacious and can accommodate groups, with some rooms featuring split-level bathrooms. Kids' meals are available on the menu, and the garden provides a safe space for children to play. The location provides a 5-minute walk through Dale Park, which has play areas for children.
Highlights
Location: Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site, riverfront garden
Rooms: Georgian en-suite rooms with private bathrooms
Dining: Steakhouse menu with locally sourced produce
Activities: Canoeing, hiking, and river walk from the garden
Family: Family rooms, kids' meals, and park access
Events: The Rat Den private bar 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 Private Bathroom
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
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Facilities
The Water Rat provides amenities to make your stay in England comfortable and memorable
Facilities: Great
8.5/10Review 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
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The Water Rat: Location in England
Buildwas Road, Ironbridge, TF8 7BJ,
Map view
City landmarks
Museum
The Iron Bridge
1.26 km
Landmark
Ironbridge Gorge Museums
1.57 km
Museum
Museum of the Gorge
770 m
Landmark
Benthall Hall
4.11 km
Museum
The Darby Houses
1.19 km
Museum
Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron
1.66 km
Museum
Enginuity
1.59 km
Church
St Mary The Virgin
1.1 km
Bridge
The Iron Bridge and Tollhouse
1.33 km
Landmark
Broseley Pipeworks
2.24 km
Landmark
Buildwas Abbey
1.53 km
Landmark
Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust
1.04 km
Landmark
Tar Tunnel
1.6 km
Landmark
Ironbridge Open Air Museum of Steel Sculpture
1.73 km
Landmark
Ironbridge Tourist Information Centre
990 m
Museum
Bedlam Furnaces
2.01 km
Landmark
Loamhole Dingle
1.21 km
Landmark
Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust Ltd
1.49 km
Museum
Jackfield Tile Museum
2.99 km
Landmark
Blists Hill Victorian Town
3.72 km
Landmark
Craven Dunnill Jackfield Ltd
2.97 km
Train Station
Telford Steam Railway
3.62 km
Museum
Coalport China Museum
4.02 km
Landmark
Horsehay Pool
3.58 km
Landmark
Madeley Pool
3.64 km
Landmark
National Trust
4.13 km
Park
Telford Town Park
4.59 km
Church
Holy Trinity Church
5.39 km
Museum
Wenlock Priory
5.23 km
Nearby
8 The Courtyard
Dale End Park
560 m
Restaurants
The Meadow Inn
20 m
Buildwas Road
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.
Cleanliness
8.9/10
Comfort
8.7/10
Facilities
8.5/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.5/10
Location
9.3/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
8.6/10
Pros
Really good staff service
Scenic location
Cons
Inconsistent food quality
Room noise levels
Guest reviews
based on 569 reviews
8.5/10
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.
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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.