The Water Rat Hotel Ironbridge Exterior photoThe Water Rat Hotel Ironbridge Exterior photoThe Water Rat Hotel Ironbridge Exterior photo
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From90US$ /night
Check-in
02May2026Select date
Check-out
03May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Buildwas Road, Ironbridge, United Kingdom, TF8 7BJ
-
Close to The Darby Houses
Great
8.7
/10
5.0
4.2
/5

Dining Experience

The Water Rat offers a menu focused on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, showcasing British pub classics alongside inventive dishes. Guests can enjoy meals in the riverside garden or in one of the cozy character-filled dining rooms. Unique culinary offerings include fresh fish specials and homemade gravies prepared daily by skilled chefs.

Accommodations

Six stylish boutique en-suite rooms are available, each designed with a touch of Georgian charm. These spacious accommodations feature high ceilings, soft seating areas, and peaceful riverside views. Guests can enjoy powerful showers and a continental breakfast buffet for a comfortable stay.

Prime Location

Situated along the banks of the River Severn, The Water Rat is just moments away from the World Heritage Site of Ironbridge. This location allows easy access to numerous attractions, including award-winning museums and historic sites. The nearby footpath offers scenic walks through beautiful countryside and unspoiled villages.

Event Space

The Rat Den serves as a private space for celebrations, accommodating birthdays and reunions with its own bar and facilities. For larger gatherings, guests can reserve the 'Rat Hole', which includes a private entrance and restroom. The layout is versatile, suitable for buffet parties or sit-down dinners.

Activities and Adventure

Guests can explore the rich history of Shropshire by visiting nearby attractions like Wroxeter Roman City and medieval Much Wenlock. The area is also home to various outdoor activities, from walking along the Severn to local game shooting and fishing opportunities. A selection of local golf courses and historical gardens are within easy reach.

Highlights

Dining: Freshly prepared seasonal dishes

Accommodations: Six stylish boutique en-suite rooms

Location: Riverside position beside the Severn

Event Space: 'Rat Hole' for private parties

Must-do experiences

  • Visit the Iron Bridge at sunrise for stunning views.
  • Try the locally-sourced sausages at the Ironbridge Farmers Market.
  • Explore the unique exhibits at the Museum of the Gorge.
  • Walk the beautiful trails of the Gorge for breathtaking scenery.
  • Check out the craft shops along the River Severn for local gems.
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Select your room type

The Water Rat Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Deluxe Double Room Shower
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Family Room
2 persons
325 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Superior Double Room
2 persons
195 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Double Room Private Bathroom
2 persons
100 sq. feet 
1 Single bed
Shower
Heating
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Facilities

The Water Rat Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.7/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • No pets allowed

Sports & Fitness

  • Canoeing
  • Hiking

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

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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Dining Onsite

At The Water Rat Ironbridge, dining is a delightful experience, combining hearty, traditional fare with the charm of a classic country pub setting. Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast and relax on the picturesque terrace or in the expansive beer garden, making every meal a moment to savor.
The Water Rat Hotel Ironbridge Restaurant photo
The Water Rat Hotel Ironbridge Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

Traditional pub fare
Ambiance
A warm, inviting country pub atmosphere, featuring a terrace and a large beer garden for al fresco dining.
Key Offerings
This venue offers a free continental breakfast, buffet parties for up to 40 guests, and sit-down dinners or lunches for up to 30, along with a private bar and convenient car park entrance.
Reservation
Reservations recommended.
Hours vary.

The Water Rat Hotel Location

Buildwas Road, Ironbridge, United Kingdom, TF8 7BJ
Map view
Buildwas Road, Ironbridge, United Kingdom, TF8 7BJ
Nearby
8 The Courtyard
Dale End Park
1900 ft
Restaurants
The Meadow Inn
100 ft
Buildwas Road
Explore Ironbridge
Nearby Activities and Dining
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Museum of the Gorge
Museum of the Gorge
10 minutes' walk
A fascinating museum showcasing the history of the Ironbridge Gorge, featuring interactive exhibits and stunning river views.
The Iron Bridge
The Iron Bridge
16 minutes' walk
An iconic symbol of the Industrial Revolution, the Iron Bridge offers picturesque views and rich historical context for visitors.
Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron
Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron
20 minutes' walk
A museum dedicated to the history of iron production in the area, with engaging displays and artifacts from the region's past.
Benthall Hall
Benthall Hall
11 minutes' drive
A stunning 16th-century mansion with beautiful gardens, offering tours that highlight its remarkable architecture and history.
Telford Snowboard and Ski Centre
11 minutes' drive
Ideal for thrill-seekers, this ski center offers a range of snow sports activities, rentals, and lessons for all skill levels.
Dale End Park
Dale End Park
7 minutes' walk
A tranquil park perfect for relaxation, featuring walking paths, picnic areas, and a playground for families to enjoy.
Four Towers Restaurant
1 minute' walk
A cozy eatery offering local dishes with a friendly atmosphere, perfect for casual meals or special occasions. Reservations recommended.
Chez Maw
6 minutes' walk
A charming spot featuring modern British cuisine, known for its seasonal menus and elegantly relaxed ambiance.
The Malthouse
11 minutes' walk
A versatile venue hosting live music and events, featuring a vibrant atmosphere perfect for enjoying a night out with friends.
Ironbridge Open Air Museum of Steel Sculpture
Ironbridge Open Air Museum of Steel Sculpture
20 minutes' walk
An outdoor museum showcasing steel sculptures, offering an engaging experience for all ages with family-friendly installations.
Getting around
City Centre
Ironbridge20 min  ·  1.0 mi
Airports
Birmingham (BHX)123 min  ·  50.9 mi
Chester Hawarden (CEG)140 min  ·  57.9 mi
Bus
Bus stop10 min  ·  3.8 mi
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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

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Water Rat Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 321 verified reviews
8.7/10
Great
90%
Recommend
Breakfast
9.9/10
Cleanliness
9.0/10
Comfort
8.9/10
Facilities
8.7/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.9/10
Location
9.2/10
Paid Wi-Fi
10.0/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
8.9/10
Guest reviews
based on 321 reviews
8.7/10
based on 550 reviews
8.7/10
harper from canada
Family with children
superior double room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 26, 2026
9/10

comfortable stay near the river

friendly staffclean roomgreat breakfast
i had dinner in the restaurant both nights the food was very good service was also friendly. the room was super clean and cozy. breakfast was great staff were friendly and helpful.
Service
9/10
the staff demonstrated excellent service . they were very cute and also efficient during breakfast. i received helpful directions and prompt assistance whenever needed.
0 Helpful
|
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Theodore from United States
Single
Superior Double Room
1 night in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 17, 2026
9.0/10

relaxed stay

superior roomhot waterlimited menu
I had a superior double room, a good size. The bathroom had ample space also. The shower worked excellently with plenty of hot water. I found tea, coffee, water and biscuits ready for me. The bed was very comfy. All staff were pretty good.
I think the food menu was limited. The hotel seemed average. The menu needs an upgrade to impress all customers.
Location
9/10
This location features a river walk leading to the town centre. The pub is situated right along the riverside. I found convenient free parking available at the premises.
Facilities
9/10
The breakfast provided was excellent. The rooms have large showers. The staff were friendly and helpful, going the extra mile to ensure a comfortable stay.
0 Helpful
|
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parker from united kingdom
Couple
double room private bathroom
1 night in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 22, 2025
9.2/10

excellent anniversary stay

friendly welcomespacious roomtasty food
I received a friendly welcome upon arrival. the staff chatted with me at the bar. my room was spacious, clean, and well-prepared. breakfast included tasty food and attentive service. my dinner with my wife's parents was excellent. The staff made our evening special.
Facilities
9/10
the hotel has a large car park available . there is also a garden area. guests can sit and relax, i really appreciated the facilities.
Service
10/10
the staff was consistently friendly and helpful . they communicated effectively regarding pre-orders and dietary needs, and they catered very well for vegetarians, children, and those needing gluten-free options.
Location
9/10
the location is great. it is ideal for a nice walk by the river. i was also able to easily walk into the main part of town, very convenient.
Rooms
9/10
the room featured a digital door lock for added security. it was clean and spacious, i found everything laid out and ready for use. the bathroom was huge, which really was a plus!
Dining
9/10
the restaurant menu offered plenty of choices. the breakfast was cooked fresh. the jerk ham, egg, and chips were fabulous, it was a well prepared full english.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Questions of the users
About The Water Rat
Is there a room specifically designed for guests with disabilities available?
12 November 2024
There is a family room located on the lowest floor that may be suitable, although there is a small step for access. This room is spacious and features a large bathroom. It's advisable to call ahead to confirm suitability before booking.
What's the best way to reserve the family room that includes a double bed and two single beds?
20 December 2024
The family room can be booked directly through the website, or you can call for assistance to ensure a smooth reservation process.
Is there an outdoor space where guests can relax and enjoy drinks or meals?
5 January 2025
A spacious beer garden and decking area are available for guests to enjoy drinks and meals in a relaxing outdoor setting.
Can you clarify your parking situation? Is there on-site parking available?
15 January 2025
On-site parking is indeed available for guests. There may have been some confusion in communications, but parking is provided free of charge.
Are tea and coffee making facilities available in the guest rooms?
10 February 2025
Yes, each room is equipped with tea and coffee making facilities for your convenience.
Is breakfast offered and can it accommodate gluten-free diets?
22 February 2025
A full English breakfast is provided, along with a selection of cereals and options that cater to gluten-free diets upon request.
What time is check-out, and is it possible to have a later check-out?
3 March 2025
Standard check-out time is 11:00 AM, but a later check-out until noon can be arranged with prior notice.
Are pets allowed at the property, specifically small dogs?
15 March 2025
Small dogs are not permitted in the guest rooms, but they are welcome in the pub's main restaurant and bar areas if well behaved.
How far is the iconic Iron Bridge from the hotel, and what beverage options are available at the bar?
21 April 2025
The Iron Bridge is approximately a 1.2-kilometer walk from the establishment. The bar features a range of lagers, including San Miguel and 1664.
What accommodations are available for special dietary needs during meals?
29 April 2025
The menu can be adjusted to cater to special dietary requirements with prior notice, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

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