Shropshire Routes 10-12
Uncover a paradise of peaks and crags, hidden waterfalls and secret caves
The charming, ancient town of Church Stretton is a beautiful place for a weekend base, especially for those who like their hills grassy, rolling and with a good pub at the bottom. This West Midlands outdoor paradise is crammed full of surprisingly steep peaks, which, when combined, can give an almost Lake District-esque amount of ascent and views.
Beautifully swooping, green moorland awaits you from the top of each Shropshire summit. Some are surprisingly craggy, with hidden waterfalls in deep valleys, while others conceal caves to explore. And what trip to this part of the world would be complete without a visit to the incredible Ludlow Castle? One of the finest medieval castles in Britain, it’s only a 30-minute drive or short train journey to the south. TRANSPORT Regular trains to both Church Stretton and Ludlow.
PUBS Try the Kings Arms and Ragleth Inn in Church Stretton, Station Inn in Marshbrook, and the Unicorn Inn, Bistro 7 and the Blue Boar in Ludlow.
ACCOMMODATION Two good places to stay in Church Stretton are The Buck’s Head Pub, 01694 722898, www.thebuckshead.co.uk and Victoria House 01694 723823, www. victoriahouse-shropshire.co.uk
CAMPING Small Batch Caravan and Camping, 01694 723358, www.smallbatch-camping.co.uk Mountain Edge Shropshire Log Cabins, camping and pods (with hot tubs!), 01694 781515, www. mountainedgeresort.co.uk
LOCAL INFO There’s a large Co-Op on Lion Meadow with plenty of choice for packed lunches and self-catering.
If it rains, Stretton Antiques Market is worth a nose into at 36 Sandford Ave. Normal opening hours 10am-5pm, with Sunday 10.30am-4.30pm.