The New Coracle Shed

Down in Coalbrookdale, where the Industrial Revolution basically kicked off, there's a small museum dedicated to something you wouldn't expect to find in the heart of ironworks country: coracles. These tiny, ancient Welsh boats - basically woven frames covered in hide - sit in what used to be a working shed, and that's exactly where The New Coracle Shed has set up shop.

You'll see actual examples of these craft, along with the tools and materials that went into making them. It's genuinely absorbing if you're interested in traditional boatbuilding or Welsh culture, though it's not the sort of place that'll keep young kids entertained for hours. History buffs and anyone with a soft spot for disappearing trades will find it worthwhile.

It's free to visit and takes about 45 minutes to an hour if you read the displays properly. The location is brilliant - a ten-minute walk from the main Coalbrookdale museums and ironworks, so you can easily combine it with the bigger attractions in the area. Coalbrookdale itself is phenomenal for a museum-heavy break, and if you're camping at Irongorge (just up the road) or Sytche Caravan & Camping Park, you're perfectly placed to explore the whole Ironbridge Gorge area without much faffing about.

Go on a weekday if you can - it's less crowded, and you might actually get to chat with someone who knows their stuff about these boats. It's not flashy, but it's authentic.