The bridge is the world’s first iron bridge constructed and is now an internationally recognised symbol of the Industrial Revolution.  The Ironbridge Gorge was awarded World Heritage status by UNESCO for the area's unique contribution to the birth of the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century which had a worldwide impact.   Today, the Ironbridge Gorge is a place of beauty with the restored buildings set either side of the River Severn’s wooded valley with a maze of footpaths, bridleways and country lanes