This headgear is not just for show. It is at the top of an old deep mine shaft which has now been mostly filled to make it safe but an open section has been left to a depth of about 45 feet so that the steam winding engine has a cage to raise and lower and it was working when we were there. The mine was used for coal, iron ore, and clay.

The Winding House is on the right.

I have to be honest here and say that I was expecting to be bored. I was very wrong. There is an astonishing range of designs and colours in these tiles and there are numerous rooms full of displays. Definitely worth a visit.

The Coalport China Museum sits by the now disused Shropshire Canal and presents the history of Coalport China, a manufacturer of fine English chinaware, which was based here from 1795 to 1926.

As well as original examples of historic china, there are also demonstrations of traditional ceramic techniques and original industrial buildings including kilns to fire the pottery. The collections include the official National Collections of Caughley and Coalport china.

The Museum of Iron is situate in the village of Coalbrookdale, an area of Ironbridge half a mile north of the river. Although you can walk from Ironbridge the museum has its own parking facilities so you could drive the short distance if you wish.

The museum covers the history of ironworking together with samples that show what can be done with iron.

Enginuity is a science and technology museum with plenty of hands-on exhibits. The museum is divided into four zones - Materials, Energy, Design, and Systems & Controls and there is plenty to interest children.