Self-guided walking
4 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
12.0Kg CO2e
Printed route
directions
Sharing a border with Wales, Shropshire is a quiet and tranquil county, considered one of UK's last remaining rural idylls. Yet, this was not always the case, and its location has shaped its history across the centuries. Ancient feuds with the Celtic princes to the west is evidenced in the numerous castle ruins, each with their own tales to tell.It is here, in Shropshire the early 18th century that modern industry originated. In 1779 the world's first cast iron bridge was erected at Ironbridge over the River Severn and became one of the greatest symbols of the birthplace of the industrial revolution. Its significance has been recognised with UNESCO World Heritage status and today is Shropshire's most famous landmark.
From rolling hills to meres and moorland, Shropshire's varied landscape reflects the geologically unique nature of this area. This geodiversity has created a distinctive environment with special habitats which has been recognised through its designation as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The Shropshire hills provide the backbone of this landscape, from the rocky Stiperstones to the craggy volcanic Stretton Hills and Wrekin and the quarried landscape of the Clee Hills, each with their own distinguishing characteristics. Found amid Shropshire's natural beauty are its many attractive market towns, including Ludlow, described by John Betjeman as 'Probably the loveliest town in England'. Shropshire's accessibility from many of the UKs major cities make this the perfect rural escape.
Taking in much of the county's best countryside, the Shropshire Way is a long-distance route covering some 200 miles. The route explores the north and south of the county, centring on Shrewsbury. Our route features the southern section, which follows much of the original Shropshire Way conceived by the Ramblers Association in the 1980s. Discover some of England's best kept secrets as you wander through the unique landscape of the Shropshire Hills. Cross the summit of the Clee Hills and Wenlock Edge before reaching the magnificent Ironbridge Gorge. Our route features the charming towns and villages of Ludlow, Much Wenlock and Ironbridge. From ancient hill forts to unique geological features and spectacular views, walking the Shropshire Way allows you to discover far more of this spectacular county.
Why not spend an extra day or two in Ironbridge? Explore the UNESCO Ironbridge gorge following the River Severn through its beautiful surroundings. Visit the numerous museums which will transport you back to the time of the industrial revolution.
Walks on this holiday are on village streets, country lanes, farm tracks and rural paths. Walking boots are essential. Walking poles are recommended.
Arrive into Ludlow for your four night break and make your way to the guest house.
You stay at The Mount Guest House.
Mastercard
Visa
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Tea/coffee
Walkers will receive a warm welcome at the friendly and comfortable Mount Guest House. The Guests’ Lounge benefits from great views of the surrounding countryside including Whitecliffe Common and Mortimer Forest. The secluded garden offers a space to relax and take in the tranquillity. A wide breakfast selection includes a cooked breakfast made to order.
All rooms feature Wi-Fi, television, tea and coffee making facilities and private bathroom with WC, shower/bath and hairdryer.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
Today's walk takes you to some of the highest hills in Shropshire. Leaving Ludlow, you once again follow the riverside trail, passing the well-preserved Iron Age hillfort Caynham Camp. The path begins to climb, initially through pastures before joining up with an old rail track, a remnant of old quarry workings. Eventually this brings you to the summit of Titterstone Clee, topped with rocks known as the Giant's Chair. Enjoy splendid views of the surrounding agricultural landscapes as you descend towards Wheathill. Transfer back to your accommodation in Ludlow.
You stay at The Mount Guest House.
MastercardVisaHairdryerWiFiTVTea/coffee
Walkers will receive a warm welcome at the friendly and comfortable Mount Guest House. The Guests’ Lounge benefits from great views of the surrounding countryside including Whitecliffe Common and Mortimer Forest. The secluded garden offers a space to relax and take in the tranquillity. A wide breakfast selection includes a cooked breakfast made to order.
All rooms feature Wi-Fi, television, tea and coffee making facilities and private bathroom with WC, shower/bath and hairdryer.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
After breakfast, transfer back to the start of today's walk at Wheathill. Today, you take on Shropshire's highest hill, Brown Clee. Consisting of two peaks, Clee Burf and Abdon Burf, both of which were sites of Iron Age forts. The route ascends to Clee Burf continuing to the Col at Five Springs before ascending further to Abdon Burf. Enjoy views westwards across the Shropshire Hills including Wenlock Edge, Long Mynd, Stiperstones and beyond into Wales. As you descend Brown Clee towards the Corve Dale valley you will discover a contrasting landscape of verdant pastures. Wind your way to the 16th century Elizabethan Wilderhope Manor. Transfer to your accommodation in Ironbridge.
You stay at The White Hart.
MastercardVisaWiFiTVTea/coffee
This eighteenth century Ironbridge beer house offers comfortable rooms with a contemporary feel. All rooms are individually designed, some with views overlooking the river. You can enjoy dinner at their modern British Gallery restaurant.
All rooms feature Wi-Fi, television, tea and coffee making facilities, and private bathroom with WC and shower/bath.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
After breakfast, transfer back to the start of today's walk at Wilderhope Manor. Today's walk follows Wenlock Edge; a limestone escarpment formed over 400 million years ago, featuring a mix of flower rich grasslands and ancient woodland. At Major's Leap, you will discover fine views across the Stretton Hills. The market town of Much Wenlock is well worth exploring, with its dramatic priory ruins and a museum telling the story of its links with the first modern Olympic Games. Meander through Benthall Edge wood before descending into Ironbridge Gorge, following the River Severn. Enter the town across the famous iron bridge.
You stay at The White Hart.
MastercardVisaWiFiTVTea/coffee
This eighteenth century Ironbridge beer house offers comfortable rooms with a contemporary feel. All rooms are individually designed, some with views overlooking the river. You can enjoy dinner at their modern British Gallery restaurant.
All rooms feature Wi-Fi, television, tea and coffee making facilities, and private bathroom with WC and shower/bath.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
After a hearty breakfast, depart your guest house for your journey home, or stay on for a couple of extra days at leisure.
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from AU$369.
Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.
Self-guided walking
4 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
12.0Kg CO2e
Printed route
directions
