Welcome to Ludlow and the beautiful Shropshire countryside!
With miles of rolling hills and grassy valleys, Ludlow is the perfect destination for some of the best hiking and walking trails in the region.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll through the countryside or a challenging hike up a steep hill, Ludlow has something to offer.
In this article, I will be discussing fifteen of the best walks in Ludlow, including hikes and nice walks.
From Mortimer Forest to the Clee Hills, I’ll show you the best of the best Ludlow has to offer.
So lace up your walking boots and let’s get exploring!
Mortimer Forest
You’ll be mesmerized by the beauty of Mortimer Forest, with its lush greenery and towering trees.
Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely stroll or challenge yourself with a more strenuous hike, Mortimer Forest has something for everyone.
With over 8,000 acres of varied terrain, you can explore ancient woodlands, heather-covered hills, and tranquil streams.
The network of paths makes for an excellent variety of walks, from a simple stroll along the riverbank to a more adventurous journey through the heart of the forest.
There’s plenty to discover, from wildlife spotting to uncovering hidden historical gems.
With its stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere, Mortimer Forest is a great place for a day out in the countryside.
Wenlock Edge
Experience the stunning views from Wenlock Edge, where you can marvel at the rolling hills of Shropshire.
The Edge offers an array of walking routes, making it a favourite destination for hikers, with some routes even suitable for families with young children.
The walk begins at the National Trust car park, where visitors can explore the area and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
The route then takes you past Brobury House, which was built in the late 1600s, then on to the Iron Age earthworks at Bury Hill.
You can also spot some of the many woodland species, such as skylarks, as you make your way through the forest.
Once you reach the top of the Edge, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Severn Valley, as far as Welshpool.
Whether you’re looking for a tranquil stroll or an invigorating hike, Wenlock Edge has something for everyone.
Stokesay Castle
Nestled in the beautiful Shropshire countryside, Stokesay Castle is an awe-inspiring 13th-century fortified manor house that stands proudly along the banks of the River Onny.
The castle is a Grade I listed building, and is considered to be one of the best preserved medieval fortified manor houses in England.
It was built by Lawrence of Ludlow, a wealthy wool merchant, who wanted to create a grand residence. With its thick walls, round towers, and large gatehouse, Stokesay Castle is an impressive sight.
Visitors to the castle can explore its many features, including the great hall, the chapel, and the prison.
The grounds of the castle are also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, badgers, and foxes.
There are plenty of trails to explore, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The castle makes for a great day out, and is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike.
Corvedale Circular Walk
Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of the Corvedale Circular Walk, a scenic route that winds through the rolling hills of Shropshire.
This eight-mile trek is a popular choice for walkers of all ages and abilities, providing an ideal day out.
The route starts and ends at the idyllic village of Corfton, passing through picturesque landscapes of lush meadows and ancient woodlands.
Along the way, you’ll encounter spectacular views of the Onny Valley, the iconic Stokesay Castle, and the rolling hills of the Corvedale.
This is a great opportunity to explore the beauty of the Shropshire countryside, while taking in the history and culture of the area.
The route includes a variety of different terrains, from easy paths and tracks, to more challenging ascents and descents.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more demanding walk, the Corvedale Circular Walk is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Clee Hill
Climb Clee Hill for an amazing panorama of the surrounding countryside. Enjoy the stunning views of the Shropshire countryside with the town of Ludlow in the foreground.
The hill is easily accessible from the A4117, with a convenient car park at the foot of the hill. There are several paths to the top, so there is plenty of choice for all ages and abilities. Most of the paths are well maintained and easy to follow, making it a great place for a peaceful stroll.
Once you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Welsh hills and the Malverns. Take your time to take in the beautiful landscape, and if you’re lucky, you may even see some of the wild ponies that roam the area.
Jack Mytton Way
Explore the Jack Mytton Way, a 24-mile circular trail that takes you through some of Shropshire’s most stunning scenery.
From Ludlow Castle to the rolling hills of the Shropshire countryside, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery, wildflowers, and abundant wildlife.
This trail is perfect for both short day trips and longer adventures, so you can choose the route that best suits your needs.
Along the way, you’ll be able to stop at numerous pubs, cafes, and attractions, making the journey even more enjoyable.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a leisurely stroll, the Jack Mytton Way guarantees an unforgettable experience.
With breathtaking views, charming towns, and a variety of terrain, this is a journey you won’t want to miss.
Wenlock Priory
On the Jack Mytton Way, take a break from the rolling hills to discover the historical Wenlock Priory, a 12th-century Augustinian monastery brimming with rich history and cultural significance.
Dating back to the 1100s, the priory is tucked away in the Shropshire countryside and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. I found the peaceful atmosphere and sense of tranquility to be quite calming.
The priory is home to a variety of interesting features, such as the ruins of a Norman chapel, the remains of a dormitory, and a large cloister garden. There’s also a museum on the grounds that displays artifacts from the priory’s long and illustrious history. I was particularly taken by the stained glass windows, which featured intricate designs that illuminated the chapel’s interior.
In addition to the cultural attractions, the priory is also a great place for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. It was a truly memorable experience.
Bromfield Circular Walk
Leaving the tranquil grounds of the Wenlock Priory, I continued on my journey to explore the best walks in Ludlow. I headed to Bromfield Circular Walk, which is a delightful walk with plenty of stunning views. It is a perfect route for novice hikers and offers a range of terrain, from grassy paths, woodlands, and even a few stiles to cross.
The walk begins in the village of Bromfield and takes you through some beautiful open countryside. You’ll start by entering a small woodland area, which is home to a variety of wildlife. You’ll then pass by some fields and a small lake before eventually reaching a small hill, which offers stunning views over the surrounding countryside.
From here, you will descend into a wooded valley and then follow a stream back to the village. The entire route takes about two hours and is a wonderful way to spend a few hours in the countryside.
Brown Clee Hill
Continuing my journey through the Shropshire countryside, I embarked on a hike up Brown Clee Hill – the highest hill in the county.
At 842 meters, it towers over the surrounding area and offers stunning views of the Shropshire Hills and the Welsh Marches.
The climb to the top is an enjoyable one, with a variety of terrain that ensures the walk is never dull.
On the way up, there are plenty of opportunities to take in the local wildlife, such as the red kites and buzzards that can often be spotted circling the hill.
When I finally reached the summit, I was rewarded with breathtaking views in every direction.
The rolling hills of the Shropshire countryside seemed to stretch on forever, and on a clear day it’s possible to even see the Welsh coast.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or just a leisurely stroll, Brown Clee Hill is the perfect spot to take in the beauty of the Shropshire countryside.
Mortimer Trail
Heading out of Brown Clee Hill, I took a detour to explore the Mortimer Trail – one of the most picturesque walks in Shropshire.
This is a well-marked 11 mile circular walk running through some of the most stunning countryside in the area. The trail takes you through ancient forests, past rivers, and over rolling hills, all with breathtaking views of the Shropshire hills.
Along the way, you will find plenty of wildlife, including deer, foxes, badgers, and more. The route is easy to follow, with plenty of signposts and benches to rest on.
The Mortimer Trail is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and to enjoy a peaceful, leisurely stroll through the countryside.
Wolstonbury Hill
After exploring the Mortimer Trail, I ventured further afield to Wolstonbury Hill – a lesser-known gem of Shropshire’s countryside.
Located near the village of Bishop’s Castle, Wolstonbury Hill is a five-mile circular walk that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
As I began the ascent, I was amazed by the rolling hills and lush green meadows that surrounded me.
The walk gradually increased in difficulty, with several moderate slopes, and I could feel my heart racing as I reached the summit.
The peak of the hill offers an incredible panoramic view of the surrounding area – a breathtaking sight that will stay with me for years to come.
After enjoying the views, I descended down the other side of the hill and made my way back to the village.
It was a great way to spend the day, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an enjoyable and rewarding outdoor experience.
Long Mynd
Next on my Shropshire explorations was the Long Mynd, a stunning stretch of heathland and moorland with sweeping views of the countryside. I had heard that this area was particularly beautiful, and I soon found out why.
The Long Mynd is a vast expanse of open countryside with rolling hills and valleys, beautiful woodland, and a variety of wildlife. The landscape is dotted with pockets of bracken and heather, and there are plenty of streams and tarns to explore.
The Long Mynd is a great spot for a walk, and there are plenty of trails to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or an invigorating hike, there’s something for everyone. The views on offer are simply breathtaking and you can easily spend hours in this idyllic spot.
It’s a great place to watch the sunset and a wonderful spot to take in the beauty of the Shropshire landscape.
The Stretton Hills
Soak up the stunning views of the Stretton Hills, a rugged stretch of rolling hills and valleys that will take your breath away. An ideal destination for a stroll, the Stretton Hills offer a unique experience with its wildflower meadows, hazel coppice, and ancient woodland.
The area is a haven for wildlife, making it an ideal spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers. With plenty of easy access points, the Stretton Hills are the perfect place to explore the beauty of the Shropshire countryside.
The paths that wind their way across the hills are perfect for leisurely walks. Enjoy the fresh air and scenic views as you meander through the woods, and don’t forget to look out for the many species of birds that inhabit the area.
The Stretton Hills are a great place to take a break and enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll or a more challenging hike, the Stretton Hills are the perfect destination for a day out.
The Clee Hills
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Clee Hills, a stunning landscape of rolling hills and valleys. Located in the western part of Shropshire, the Clee Hills offer a stunning and beautiful landscape with an array of stunning sights, features, and wildlife.
The highest point in the hills is Titterstone Clee Hill, standing at 540m above sea level, and providing amazing views of the surrounding countryside.
The Clee Hills are a fantastic place to explore on foot, with plenty of easy walking routes to choose from. There are several footpaths that traverse the hills, with many leading to the summit of Titterstone Clee Hill. The views from the summit are simply stunning, and a great way to spend your day.
The hills are also home to many interesting and rare species of wildlife, making it a great place for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts to explore.
Ludlow Castle Walk
Take a stroll through history and explore the grounds of Ludlow Castle on a captivating walk.
The castle is set on a hill and dominates the town of Ludlow from its elevated position.
Dating back to 1086, its long and varied history can be traced through its many architectural styles, making it a great place to explore and learn.
The walls of the castle enclose a large courtyard and a series of grand buildings, including the Great Hall, a chapel, and the ruins of a great tower.
From here, you can wander around the grounds of the castle, taking in the spectacular views of the town and surrounding countryside.
On a clear day, you can even see the Clee Hills to the north.
As you explore, you’ll discover the many stories of Ludlow’s history; stories of bravery, courage, and loyalty to the crown.
This is a wonderful walk to take for anyone who loves history and spectacular scenery.
Conclusion
I’ve enjoyed exploring the best walks in Ludlow.
From Mortimer Forest to the Clee Hills, there’s something for everyone.
Each walk has its own unique beauty and it’s been a delight to experience them all.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there’s something here for you.
Whatever you decide, I’m sure you’ll enjoy the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere of these wonderful walks.
So grab your walking boots and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Ludlow’s beautiful countryside.