The Stretton Hills

Walking in the Hills

For those who enjoy walking, the area holds an abundance of opportunities - set off from Church Stretton in whatever direction you will and you are sure to find an interesting and scenic walk. On the town side of the A49, all the way from Minton to All Stretton there is a whole series of pretty valleys - Callow Hollow, Ashes Hollow, Townbrook Valley, Carding Mill Valley, Cwm Dale, Batch Valley, to name but some - any of which will lead you up on to the top of the Long Mynd.

According to how far you want to walk, you can choose how far to go along the top before descending by a different valley - none of them will disappoint you. Click here for Shropshire Walking website and information on planning walks. For those who want to go further afield there is beautiful walking down the other side of the Long Mynd - to Ratlinghope and on to the Stiperstones, from where there are magnificent views across to the hills of Wales. On looking back from here one has a chance to see the Long Mynd in fuller perspective, and the reason for its name (meaning 'Long Mountain') becomes quite obvious. The rolling farmland and hillocks on its lower western slopes have a special charm all of their own and are very beautiful.

The other side of the A49 is equally blessed with its rich choice of walking - the hills of Ragleth, Helmeth, Hope Bowdler, Caer Caradoc and The Lawley all provide a variety of lovely walks. One of the fascinations of walking on this side of the A49 is to see how different the Long Mynd and its attendant smaller hills look when viewed from this direction. It is wonderful how the same hills can take on so many different aspects and although the area we are talking about is actually quite small, it contains an immense variety of views and is never boring. At times one is reminded of parts of the Lake District, sometimes it is reminiscent of the Yorkshire Moors, or even on occasions of Switzerland, but the overall charm of our hills is entirely unique and only those who are lucky enough to be able to walk them can truly appreciate it.

If you would like guidance on where to go to savour these delights, there are many publications available from Newsworld and Visitor Information Centres. There is also some useful information available in the leisure business section, and the Church Stretton Walking Festival.

Carding Mill Valley Walks

Carding Mill Valley is about 2 miles long, but there are several enjoyable short walks - to the New Pool Reservoir or up Light Spout Hollow to the waterfall. If you follow Mott's Road up the valley you will climb on to the Long Mynd plateau. An Access Map showing a map and details of walks is available from the Chalet Pavilion. A Shuttle Bus Service operates from April to October

The National Trust

For over 100 years Carding Mill Valley has been the most popular spot for visitors to the Long Mynd. Information can be found in the Chalet Pavilion where there is also a Tearoom, Shop, lavatories and information centre. The centre also has temporary exhibitions and there is a programme of walks, talks and events.

Guided Walks

Walks on Wenlock Edge and the Long Mynd, led by the Wardens, are to take place throughout the year. See local events for further details.

The Chalet Pavilion Tearoom, Shop and Information Centre

For opening hours click here

Also open for booked parties and special functions by arrangement (Tel: 01694 722631). Light lunches, teas and ices are served. There is an exhibition about the Long Mynd and a large model shows points of interest. Those who wish to know a little about Carding Mill Valley can browse through Dr. Mott's album.

Disabled Access.

There is easy access to the Chalet Pavilion for wheelchair users and disabled visitors and some parking space immediately outside the building. There is an adapted lavatory in the Tearoom. Wheelchair users may also reach some viewpoints by car on the Long Mynd outside Carding Mill Valley.

Dogs

Dogs are welcome but must be kept under control at all times because sheep are grazing and ground nesting birds breed March - July. Please clean up after your dog.

Education.

School parties are welcome to visit Carding Mill Valley throughout the year, but must pre-book. A national curriculum and GCSE resource pack is available price £10.00 from the Education Officer. The Information Room may be made available for use by school parties. A variety of services are offered including River Study, Guided Walks, Map and Compass, Victorian History and Storytelling.

The National Trust was founded as an independent charity to protect the best of our heritage forever. Your support will help the National Trust to carry out urgent conservation work and to acquire more land to preserve and protect for the enjoyment of the nation.

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