Ludlow and the Shropshire Hills Attractions
Love to go a wanderin'?
Take a journey of discovery through the protected landscape of the Shropshire Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Experience its contrasts: tranquil valleys, ancient woods, lush dales, flower rich meadows and, not least, mysterious hills – none more so than the dramatic, mythical peaks of the Stiperstones, to the east of Bishop’s Castle.
Close by, guarding Church Stretton, is the ancient Long Mynd – 500 acres of heather and bilberry covered moorland, criss crossed with more than 30 miles of footpaths and nearly 20 miles of cycle routes and bridleways. A Site of Special Scientific Interest, you will find the breathtaking views from its plateau exhilarating. Wander its deep cut valleys and enjoy a softer intimacy with nature.
Move east to the towering peak of Caer Caradoc, formed from volcanic ash and lava over 560 million years ago. Beyond is Wenlock Edge, a limestone ridge, rich in fossils and coral, a surprising reminder that this was once a sea bed.
Now turn south and in the triangle of Craven Arms, Ludlow and Cleobury Mortimer lie the Clee Hills with their fascinating industrial archaeology and dramatic vistas across the valleys beyond. Walk to the summit of Brown Clee, look due east and there is nothing higher until you reach the Urals.
To complete your circle of discovery, turn west towards the Welsh border, stopping on the way to experience the gentle landscape of Mortimer Country. Named after the medieval Marcher Lords, it can be accessed directly from Ludlow town centre via the long distance footpath, the Mortimer Trail.
Still one last secret of the Shropshire Hills remains: the lush and tranquil Clun Valley and the rolling hills beyond. Here you will experience for yourself the words of A.E. Housman, for this is undoubtedly one of “the quietest places under the sun”. Wherever you decide to roam, wildlife abounds in the Shropshire Hills: curlew, red grouse and skylark breed on the exposed hilltops.
Buzzards soar above and dippers and kingfisher frequent the streams in the valleys below. Offa’s Dyke, the Shropshire Way, the Jack Mytton Way and numerous local routes offer endless possibilities for walking, cycling or horse riding and, whatever the season, it is still possible to venture miles in total solitude.
The Shropshire Hills are home to many fine artists and artisans who, inspired by the beauty that surrounds them, have discovered new ways to use traditional materials. You will find a wide range of locally made products in both contemporary and traditional styles. Textiles, furniture, paintings, jewellery, ceramics, sculptures and other artefacts are displayed in the shops, studios, craft centres and galleries of the six towns and surrounding villages.
If you enjoy delving into history, there is much to see. Seek out some of the magnificent Iron Age hill forts, such as Bury Ditches or Caer Caradoc whose defensive ramparts still show clearly after 2,500 years. Visit the many small but very fine museums and attractions that bring history alive in exciting ways or enjoy the splendour of fine houses, castles and gardens, including several National Trust and English Heritage properties.
Whatever you choose to see and do, come and unwind in a place where nature's influence on man is always evident, where people live and work in spectacularly beautiful surroundings, a place where communities still thrive. Six of them are described on the following pages. Your only problem is that you will be spoiled for choice.
Discover our glorious landscape for yourself. Visit us soon.
For a detailed list of attractions throughout Shropshire and the surrounding area, visit the Shropshire Tourism website