Woodbridge Inn, Telford

Back in the year 1779 two bridges were built across the River Severn Gorge in Shropshire , one of these bridges was built out of the then revolutionary material of iron and became world famous as the Ironbridge , a mile downstream the other bridge made of the more conventional wood quietly went about its buisness in the shadow of its famous neighbour . The Woodbridge has been rebuilt several times over the years and is now a more modern steel construction and you cross its narrow single track to reach the pub that shares its name The Woodbridge . Originaly built as a farmhouse around 1782 it later became an alehouse known as either the Bridge or Coalport before being named the Woodbridge . The pub has undergone a major refurbishment under its new ownership by pubco Brunning and Price , including a large extension . The main entrance is to the side , as you enter the bar is straight in front , to the right is an alcove , part of the original building with the ancient beams just above shoulder height for us six footers , there are a further two seating areas to the left and an old brick fireplace with a woodburner , as you follow around to the right is another seating area with a large old fireplace , this then leads around to the large extension at the back of the bar , which is the pubs main dining area , its very light and airy in here like a very large conservatory , decor is the usual B&P mix of prints , charts and diagrams of a seemingly random range of subjects . Outside there is a beer patio and a raised deck overlooking the river . Staff were mostly young , knowlegable and enthusiastic , usual keg taps and twelve handpulls , doubled up with six on either side of the bar , all beers were local except the exellent B&P Original , the others being Three Tuns XXX , Salopian Shropshire Gold , Ironbridge Gold , Wood Shropshire Lad and a very good Hobsons Twisted Spire . Very busy on my weekday lunchtime visit , service was good and friendly , its very much a gastro pub but drinkers are welcome and the beer is exelent ,this is a welcome addition on the local pub scene .