If you love walking and caravan and camping holidays, we have some great suggestions for you in Shropshire! The county is a quiet place to holiday, some would say undiscovered. In the English Midlands, Shropshire shares a border with Wales to the west and four English counties to the north, east and south. The walking opportunities in this beautiful county are plentiful! So, let's take a look at ten walks you can do in Shropshire.
1. The Shropshire Way
The routes that make up the Shropshire Way measure 297 miles in distance, but these are broken up into sections that can all be completed in a day if you're feeling adventurous. Take a look at Shropshire's Great Outdoors to fully investigate all the routes, but be warned, they are for seasoned walkers and are fairly lengthy! Keep your eye on the 'orange buzzard' marker marking your route.
2. The Pipe Walk at Carding Mill Valley
This stunning walk through Carding Mill Valley is a moderate one, which will take an hour to complete. It measures 1.5 miles in length. It is mapped out by the National Trust, so do print out the details before you leave as the instructions are excellent and should ensure you don't get lost. If you're a wildlife spotter, do look out for the dragonflies that frequent the area.
3. Pretty Villages of Shropshire
Now, we're adding in a reminder that while we're concentrating on the stunning landscape and an area rich with geological features, the architecture of pretty villages dotted throughout the county are well worth a look. Taking an unplanned stroll in a village you stop at for a pub lunch might reveal some hidden secrets once you go beyond the High Street. Stop, explore and see what you can find off the beaten track.
4. Stiperstones National Nature Reserve
During the last ice age, the Ordovician 'Stiperstones Quartzite', which makes up the ridge, was shattered and left the scattered, jagged vistas we see here today. The Stiperstones are the result of mother nature, so this is a great place to visit if you want to be at one with both nature and wildlife. While there is a 5 mile path, there are a number of alternative options if you like to walk at a leisurely place, on a flatter route. Expect to meet some common lizards and frogs en route, with red grouse, skylark, red kite, raven and stonechat likely to be spotted too! Take your camera! Click here for the walking options.
5. Stokesay Castle
Stokesay Castle was constructed at the end of the 13th century and remains one of the best examples of medieval architecture in England. If you are an English Heritage member, you can visit the castle itself and see the breathtaking views of the Shropshire Hills and the beautiful buildings that are enclosed within the boundaries. If not, there are a couple of walks you could consider outside the property. The Stokesay Stroll measures 2.3 miles, whereas the Stokesay and Sallow Coppice Walk is a longer walk at 4 miles. Both can be found here.
6. The Long Mynd – Challenging Route
The Long Mynd is a heath and moorland plateau that forms part of the Shropshire Hills. It is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and lies between the Stiperstones range and the Stretton Hills and Wenlock Edge. Much of the land is owned by the National Trust. It is 7 miles long and 3 miles wide. Therefore, there are lots of opportunities for walks of various difficulties. Try this walk, for a strenuous 2.5 hour hike. The Burford Loop will take you to the top of Long Mynd.
7. The Long Mynd – Easier Route
Long Mynd offers a range of walking opportunities and the reason it's such a popular walking spot isn't just the incredible views and scenery, it's the range of opportunities for serious hikers and those who prefer a gentle stroll! Try the New Pool Hollow walk, which at just half a mile, will provide you with a stretch of the legs and photography opportunities at the reservoir.
8. Ludlow Town
While Shropshire offers many opportunities in the countryside, the beautiful towns of the county should be explored. There are ample opportunities to walk in Ludlow for example. Try this 3 mile route, which will take you through the town and ends with views of Ludlow Castle. Take in the architecture, which is something you won't often find on a countryside ramble!
9. The Wrekin, Telford
A must-do walk for any walker is 'The Wrekin' near Telford. On a clear day, you can see 17 counties from the summit as well as various hill forts on the Malvern Hills. The route is based on volcanic rock and therefore, as is so common in Shropshire, it is an area of serious geological interest. The volcanic rock is millions of years older than Mount Everest. If you love geology, history and a good stretch of the legs, this is the one for you.
10. Ironbridge
The world's first iron bridge was erected over the River Severn in 1779. The pioneering structure marked a turning point in English design and engineering, forming many future bridge designs in the country. The bridge was so successful, it gave its name to the incredible wooded valley which surrounds it, which is now a World Heritage Site. There are plenty of walking trails in this area and the Severn Gorge Countryside Trust has a number ready for all ages and abilities.
The Best of British holiday parks have 2 holiday locations in Shropshire. Oxon Hall Touring Park is situated in very close to Shrewsbury and is perfect for exploring Ironbridge. Beaconsfield Holiday Park is also near Shrewsbury and offers excellent access to all the walking areas in Shropshire detailed above. So, if you're looking for accommodation in Shropshire, while exploring this magnificent county, take a look at Best of British. We offer five star rated family/independently owned and run holiday parks with over 50 spectacular locations to choose from. All different, all unique, but the same excellent service.
