Clear the cobwebs with one of our short walking holidays in England, a bracing hike through the hills of Church Stretton in the heart of Shropshire – an idyllic location for a hill walking holiday.
2 to 4 nights
21 to 33 mls (km)
West Midlands
Moderate
Mar to Oct
£280
Walking the Shropshire Hills
Spectacular views over the countryside from The Caer Caradoc, Long Mynd and Stiperstones
Experience the charm of Church Stretton
Cross paths with vestiges of the old lead mining industry in the area's hills
Hills are decorated with nature trails and Iron Age hill forts
Visit the charming rural towns and villages of Church Stretton and Bishop's Castle
With the Long Mynd ridge to the west and the Stretton Hills and Caer Caradoc to the east, Church Stretton's picturesque setting in a narrow valley in the South Shropshire hills earned it the name of "Little Switzerland" and it is a designated 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty'.
Just stand on any of the hilltops that surround Church Stretton and admire the view – the rocky Stiperstones, the plateau of the Long Mynd, the craggy volcanic Stretton Hills and Wrekin and the long wooded scarp of Wenlock Edge (much-loved by A.E. Houseman) - all have their own distinctive beauty.
Hiking the Hills around Church Stretton
Over 4,500 acres of heath and moorland on the Long Mynd are protected by the National Trust in England's least populated county. The hilltops are home to wild ponies and upland birds such as curlew, red grouse, and merlin. You'll often spot a buzzard circling overhead, and if you're lucky, you might even see a red kite.
Back in town, visit the thriving antiques centre and browse a wide variety of independent shops or stalls at the twice-weekly market. The town has a long history as a country market town, having been granted a market charter by King John in 1214, and markets have been held here ever since. You'll also find yourself in good company at the country pubs, which serve great food and ale in the surrounding hills.
Our Shropshire hills walking routes.
Path Walkthrough
Your adventure begins with a hike over The Lawley, Caer Caradoc, and Hope Bowdler on the eastern side of Church Stretton, offering spectacular views of the surrounding area and the Long Mynd. Ascend the Long Mynd via interlinking tracks, footpaths, bridleways, and paved roads, enjoying panoramic views from the crest before descending a rocky trail towards the Stiperstones. This section features dedicated viewing platforms like the 'Devil's Chair' and a sense of travelling 'off the beaten track' through England's most unpopulated county.
Despite its remote feel, the well-maintained paths were originally created by miners from the now-defunct lead mining industry. The combination of ridge walks, rocky trails, and historical paths provides a diverse and engaging hiking experience. The Shropshire Hills' unique landscape and tranquillity offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle, ensuring a memorable short-break walk.
Embark on this journey to discover the geological wonders and serene landscapes of the Shropshire Hills.
Walk Pack, including maps and detailed daily descriptions
Personal transfer between accommodation and path that form a part of our standard package
Lunch refreshments may be bought from one of the bakeries or delicious delicatessens in town. Dinner is not included and may be taken in one of the various pubs or restaurants in Church Stretton.
You choose which day you would like your holiday to start on. We will book your holiday in accordance with your requirements.
Our Shropshire Hills holidays are available to walk March to October.
The area experiences some of the milder weather the UK has to offer, with its relatively low levels of rainfall being due to its position in the shadow of the Cambrian Mountains.
Bear in mind that temperatures in the hills tend to be noticeably colder and windier than lower levels, so pack suitable clothing for the ascent.
Travelling by train
Church Stretton is on the mainline train service between Manchester and Cardiff.
From London, rail services depart from Euston and Paddington Stations with usually 1 or sometimes 2 changes of train to Church Stretton.
The duration of the journey from London is approximately 3 hours – 3 hours 30 minutes.
Looking for different mileages or a different number of nights? Please contact us to discuss how our itineraries can be adjusted to meet your specific needs. Call one of our helpful team on +44 (0)1291 689774 or e-mail us here.
📷Caer Caradoc
📷Looking over to Church Stretton and Caer Caradoc (1)
📷View over Caer Caradoc
📷View of the Long Mynd
📷Walking up to the Long Mynd
📷Caer Caradoc at sunset
Shropshire Hills Client Reviews
4.7/5 based on 7 reviews
Information for our independent walk, was perfect! We felt like we knew what we were doing and what to expect. The Shropshire Hills walk was a marvellous surprise. Angela - August 2023
In over 30 years of staying in B&Bs, the standard provided was one of the very best of them. The food and breakfast selection was superb. Anon - July 2022
Celtic Trails are very well organised, very kind / helping - being on my own here, I felt embedded and safe. Also with the postponing (Covid). Many thanks.
I really wanted to be alone in these sometimes even desolate landscapes. I was very pleased that Gerda O., Belgium - July 2022
Nathan is always responsive and we thank Celtic Trails for holding our deposit for us to use for this trip. I feel refreshed and energised and am sleeping better after this trip. Anon - June 2022
Celtic Trails are well organised and offer slightly different walks to the other groups we saw. We enjoyed the variety of walks with friends - ideal length for us. Accommodation 5/5 Sue (Hampshire) - May 2021
We have used CT on many occasions and hope to continue doing do. Our next holiday is already booked. This holiday was particularly welcome in these Covid-19 times. Special mention for our accommodation - five stars! Houseman's Restaurant was outstanding too! Anon - October 2020
Accommodation was very good. Anon - October 2020
Leave your own review of your Shropshire Hills Walking Holiday with us - add review.
We will check your details and come back to you within two working days with a personalised estimate based on your requirements. We will then formally request a deposit of £150 per person (£100 per person for a single centre break) and book all your arrangements - find out about our full booking process here.
Please note this does not constitute a booking confirmation, we kindly ask you to refrain from booking any travel until we have confirmed all your arrangements.
Still Have Questions?
If you are still unsure on any of your requirements, please do enquire with us first and one of our friendly team will be happy to help you with any queries you have.
Walk 
Church Stretton to Church Stretton
📷Caer Caradoc
📷Looking over to Church Stretton and Caer Caradoc (1)
📷View over Caer Caradoc
📷View of the Long Mynd
📷Walking up to the Long Mynd 
📷Caer Caradoc at sunset
