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From90US$ /night
Check-in
16Mar2026Select date
Check-out
17Mar2026Select 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
3.8
4.2
/5

Rooms

The Water Rat Ironbridge offers six boutique en-suite rooms, each reflecting a touch of Georgian charm. The large double rooms and superior garden view rooms provide high ceilings and soft seating areas for extra comfort. Guests can enjoy peaceful riverside views, ensuring a memorable stay.

Dining

Dining at The Water Rat includes a menu that emphasizes seasonal dishes prepared daily in-house. Guests can choose from pub classics and inventive specials, with options for gluten-free meals. The environment allows dining indoors or outside in a riverside garden, fostering a relaxed meal experience.

Location

Set on the banks of the River Severn in historic Ironbridge, The Water Rat is a gateway to the World Heritage Site. Guests can easily explore the town and its ten award-winning museums, including the Victorian working village, Blists Hill. The stunning surroundings encourage walks along the river and access to local attractions.

Event Space

The Water Rat includes private spaces for gatherings, such as The Rat Den, which features its own bar and facilities. Ideal for birthdays or reunions, this area can accommodate buffet parties or sit-down dinners. Guests enjoy personalized service as they celebrate in a riverside setting filled with character.

Activities

Guests can engage with local attractions, including the Ironbridge Gorge and various museums just minutes away. The Water Rat serves as a base for visiting Shropshire's historical sites, such as the medieval town of Much Wenlock. Walking paths along the river offer delightful views and access to Shropshire's stunning natural landscapes.

Highlights

Location: historic Ironbridge with access to ten museums

Rooms: large double en-suite rooms with garden views

Dining: seasonal dishes made fresh daily

Event Space: The Rat Den for private gatherings

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
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
Deluxe Double Room Shower
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Double Room Private Bathroom
2 persons
100 sq. feet 
1 Single bed
Shower
Heating
Click button to see more rooms
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

The Water Rat Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.9/10Review 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
  • Ironing 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 Airport (BHX)123 min  ·  50.9 mi
Chester Hawarden Airport (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 284 verified reviews
8.8/10
Great
92%
Recommend
Breakfast
9.9/10
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Comfort
9.1/10
Facilities
8.9/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.6/10
Location
9.3/10
Paid Wi-Fi
10.0/10
Staff
9.6/10
Value for money
9.0/10
Guest reviews
based on 540 reviews
8.7/10
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
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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