This Early May Bank Holiday weekend, Shrewsbury Town Council invites residents and visitors to celebrate a landmark moment in the town’s heritage, the 600th Anniversary of the iconic Loggerheads emblem, with a weekend of music, discovery and creative family activities in the Quarry.
600 Years of Civic Pride
Friday 2nd May 2025 marks exactly 600 years since the Loggerheads emblem was first recorded as a symbol of Shrewsbury. The three leopard heads, known as the Loggerheads, have represented the town since 1425 and remain a proud emblem of Shrewsbury’s civic identity. Today they are used by local organisations including Shrewsbury Town Council and Shrewsbury Town Football Club.
To mark this historic milestone, the Town Council is launching a Loggerheads Hunt, which will begin next weekend. This free interactive trail invites families and individuals to find 20 specially designed posters featuring unique versions of the Loggerheads emblem. Each version has been sourced from a real location within the town centre, and participants will be challenged to match each image to its original setting.
Entry forms will be available from Quarry Kitchen, Coffee Evolution, Gelatistry and Stop Cafe. Once completed, entries can be submitted to Shrewsbury Town Council at 7 St John’s Hill, SY1 1JD. All correct entries will be entered into a prize draw to win a special Shrewsbury hamper. The competition will close on Sunday 31st August.
If any other cafes would like to hand out the trail sheets, please contact Shrewsbury Town Council at enquiries@shrewsburytowncouncil.gov.uk.
History enthusiasts can also explore The Mysteries of the Loggerheads, a specially curated walking guide created by local historian Mark Stewart. The guide leads readers on a journey to uncover 100 examples of the emblem across Shrewsbury, showcasing how deeply the Loggerheads are embedded in the town’s story. The booklet is available for £2 from Pengwern Books, Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery and Shrewsbury Library.
Loopfest Launches Today
Live music will fill the town centre as Loopfest begins today, Friday 2nd May, transforming Shrewsbury into a celebration of musical talent. Running throughout the weekend, the festival features performances by local, regional and national artists across more than 20 venues. From pubs and cafés to outdoor spaces, the town will be buzzing with energy. A full schedule is available at www.loopfest.co.uk.
Look Down for Family Fun
Visitors to the Quarry this weekend should also keep their eyes on the ground. Using the Town Council’s specialist Turf Tank robot, Recreational Spaces Manager Mark Preece has painted a series of fun activities near the Bandstand, including hopscotch, a 15m square maze and another game for families to enjoy as they explore the park.
With live music, engaging trails and creative outdoor fun, it’s the perfect weekend to experience the best of Shrewsbury.
