Ludlow & The Shropshire Hills - Discover, Explore, Enjoy

Set deep in the English countryside facing three of England’s greenest shires, Cleobury Mortimer typifies rural village life in everything but that it is a town. Alongside the meandering River Rea, this quiet corner of rural England is the perfect place to unwind and experience a different pace of life. It is tucked away in the corner of Shropshire, between the Clee Hills and the Wyre Forest. Its near neighbour, Ludlow, has attracted greater fame but this small, rural idyll remains a hidden gem that is especially
worth seeking out.

A Sepia Scene

The High Street was once described by English poet Sir John Betjeman as “A long airy curving street of brick Georgian houses and shops interspersed with genuine halftimber, the Rea brook making a splash at the bottom of the hill.” It is a picture postcard scene but a sepia one, as most of the shops have retained their facades along with a level of service and charm that belongs to an equally bygone age.

There are two real butchers and bakers, a florist and traditional ironmongers and a well-stocked greengrocer. Look out for the lardy cakes and the Shropshire brown loaves, from the ‘highest bakery in Shropshire’. Now, Ludlow’s refinement has also spilled over, with a great bookshop, high class lingerie, and specialist food retailers including regional delicacies, health foods and a delicatessen that provides custom-made hampers, a luxurious way to enjoy the many local picnic spots.

There is no problem in finding good refreshment in Cleobury Mortimer. In addition to its 5 pubs, 3 hotels and a tea-room, the town boasts an Indian restaurant with an unbeatable reputation. At the local freehouses try out Cleobury's own beer from the Hobsons Brewery, one of Shropshire’s best real ales.

There are many ways to enjoy a stay in Cleobury Mortimer. The West Midlands Safari Park and the Severn Valley Railway are easily accessible. Both National Trust and English Heritage sites are to be found a short drive away and there are craft centres and many small local nurseries, orchards, farm shops and farm based attractions within reach.

Cleobury Mortimer Golf Club with its 27 holes, provides spectacular panoramic views. State of the art facilities for outdoor sports at Lacon Childe attract regional competitions.

The Pioneer Centre and Old Vicarage Centre are major centres for residential youth activities.

Whatever you choose you can experience three of England’s greenest shires from the hidden gem that is Cleobury Mortimer.

Cleobury Mortimer Visitor Information

Visitor Information Point - New Market Hall, Church Street - view the tapestry of key buildings and societies interpreted on a touch screen computer.

Information about Cleobury Mortimer & Cleobury County - www.shrosphiretourism.co.uk/cleobury-mortimer

Cleobury Country Walks - individual guides including the Simon Evans way and a set of 12 Walks Guides - available in local shops. Stottesden area walks - available only at the shop at the clocks, adjacent to the Fighting Cocks pub.

Guided Local Walks throughout the year vary from 3 - 7 miles. Cleobury Mortimer Footpath Association - contact susan@eaglelane.co.uk

Look out for new Cleobury circular cycle trail leaflets in the Visitor Information Point.

Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural beauty - www.shropshirehillsaonb.co.uk

For more information about Shropshire, including Accommodation, Atrractions and Activities, visit Shropshire Tourism