After weeks of long shifts and weekend duties, I finally got a well-deserved pause—and so did my fiancé. As many of you know, I’ve been working extra weekends not only for the enhancements (which are definitely helpful) but because weekends at work tend to be calmer. Still, it’s important to make space for life outside the hospital walls.

We try our best to take a trip together once a month. Last time it was Leicester (I promise I’ll write about that soon—one day, I swear 😂), and this time we decided to explore the charming town of Shrewsbury.

Here’s a little secret: travel doesn’t always mean crossing countries or emptying your savings. Sometimes, it just means hopping over to the nearest town and letting it surprise you. And Shrewsbury? It absolutely did.

We began our adventure at St. Mary’s Church, the tallest spire in England outside of a cathedral. The architecture is a work of art—soaring stone arches, vibrant stained glass windows, and ornate Victorian tiles that whisper centuries of stories. It’s said to be the largest church in Shrewsbury, and honestly, it felt like stepping inside a living piece of history.

Outside, the spire has watched over the town for over 500 years, and it’s impossible to miss—it commands the skyline with grace and quiet strength.

Next, we hopped aboard SABRINA, a river cruise boat that gently carries you along the River Severn. The journey begins at Victoria Quay, sailing toward the English Bridge, then looping back to the Welsh Bridge.

The ride lasted about 45 minutes to an hour, and it was filled with lighthearted laughs, fresh air, and scenic beauty. The tour guide was witty and charming—adding that perfect touch of local flavor to the day.

We also made a stop at St. Chad’s Church, a striking round church with a rich connection to Charles Darwin, who was baptized here in 1809. There’s something uniquely comforting about old churches—they hold a hush that wraps around you like a prayer.

Just next to it is The Quarry and The Dingle, a breathtaking 29-acre park nestled along the riverbank. The floral blooms, the breeze, and the tranquil green spaces made it one of my favorite spots of the day. It’s one of those places that asks nothing from you but presence.

After all that wandering, we followed our cravings to Umai, a Japanese restaurant where we indulged in delicious sashimi and sushi. It hit the spot.

We hadn’t planned our day in detail—and maybe that’s why it was so special. We wandered wherever our feet led us, letting curiosity take the wheel.

🏛 Antiques, Bookshops & Chopsticks

As we strolled through the heart of Shrewsbury, we found ourselves enchanted by the patchwork architecture—buildings from all eras standing proudly side by side. It was like walking through an open-air museum.

We stumbled into the Shrewsbury Antiques Centre, a treasure trove tucked just off The Square. If you love the thrill of the hunt (and the smell of old books and vintage brass), this is your place.

At The Parade, a quaint two-floor shopping centre filled with independent gems, I found two favorites:
📚 Second Chapter Books – an indie bookshop full of soul.
🍱 A little Japanese shop, where I bought a new pair of chopsticks (a small but happy purchase!).

The best part of our day?
Sitting quietly in Severn Park, ice cream in hand, with my fiancé beside me and a thrifted book in my lap. No noise, no pressure, just us—in the kind of stillness that makes you realize how full life really is.

Travel doesn’t always have to be grand to be memorable. Sometimes, all you need is a good pair of shoes, someone you love, and a sleepy little town waiting to be seen.

Until the next wander,
Anj 💛