Itinerary
Day One
Settle into your comfortable B&B, read through the details of your walking break and enjoy dining at one of Church Stretton's recommended restaurants.
Day Two
Today explore the magnificent upland wilderness of the Long Mynd, a wide expanse of wild moorland, clothed in a rich mosaic of heather, bilberry and bracken. Prehistoric trackways steeped in history cross the moor. Here the light is ever-changing and kestrel and sparrowhawk soar above. Dip gently down to remote Ratlinghope, half-hidden in the fold of an elevated valley before reaching the delightful Horseshoe Inn at Bridges for lunch.
Following in the footsteps of Wild Edric, a legendary Saxon warrior, you regain the ridge. From breezy tops sweeping panoramas reach towards distant horizons. Finally, drop down to Carding Mill Valley, dramatically steep-sided, studded with springs, rushing streams and rocky outcrops. We recommend tea at the National Trust tearooms before returning to your B&B. (8 or 10 miles/12.8 km or 16 km, moderate walking)
Day Three
Today explore the dramatic landscapes and tiny hamlets of the Stretton Hills. Here wonderful panoramas unfold in rapid succession, the bold outline of Caer Caradoc your constant companion. Short springy grass drapes velvety hillsides while picturesque paths wind through bracken to isolated farmsteads. Lunch at 15th-century Royal Oak, hidden in charming hamlet Cardington.
A gentle climb follows to ‘The Wilderness’, a stunning ridge with dramatic views to vales below and to distant horizons beyond. Then there's mighty Caer Caradoc itself, highest of the giant Stretton Hills that face the Mynd. Explore its airy ridges and rocky outcrops, once a hilltop town and Caradoc’s heroic stand against the might of the Roman army. Scudding clouds cast rapidly-moving shadows, defining the contours of Housman’s “blue remembered hills”; from this pivotal position and commanding height, you'll enjoy one of the best views in Shropshire. (8 miles/12.8 km, moderate walking)