Ironbridge was once the centre of British industry. This hostel at the 19th century Literary and Scientific Institute provides comfortable accommodation within walking distance of the first iron bridge in the world (constructed in 1777 to advertise iron-based technology) and the museum of iron. History buffs will be happy to indulge their inquisitive brains in no less than 10 industrial heritage museums. Getting to the hostel: From Telford centre or M54 follow the signs to Ironbridge. Turn right at the roundabout into Coalbrookdale. The hostel is 1/2 mile on the right hand side.