Ludlow & The Shropshire Hills - Discover, Explore, Enjoy

Best foot forward...

Our extensive networks of waymarked footpaths guide you along river valleys, through ancient woodland, over heather-clad hilltops. They allow you to follow in the footsteps of ancient drovers, take in the views from Iron-Age hillforts and stand on the summit of Shropshire's highest hill, Brown Clee.

The Shropshire Way (136 miles)

Recently upgraded, the southern section guides you through the best bits of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. www.shropshirewalking.co.uk

Offa's Dyke National Trail (177 miles)

A spectacular walk along the English-Welsh border. The best preserved sections of the Dyke are in the Shropshire Hills. www.offasdyke.demon.co.uk

The Kerry Ridgeway (15 miles)

After the steady climb from Bishop's Castle, the views from this ancient drover's road are stunning as the track never dips below 1000ft above sea level.

Town trails and circular walks

Follow the town heritage trails or choose one of the many walk leaflets which guide you out of town. For more information pop into the local Visitor Information Centre or visit www.shropshirewalking.co.uk.

Walking Festivals:

Church Stretton: 3rd-6th June
Bishop's Castle: 8th-10th June

Walking Holidays

www.wheelywonderfulcycling.co.uk or contact 01568 770755
www.secrethillswalking.co.uk or contact 01694 723600

Up, up and away

Take to the skies for a bird's eye view of the hills or practice your putt on one of England's highest greens. The Shropshire Hills offer all of this and more.

Ballooning, gliding and paragliding are all on offer around the Long Mynd. While for those who like to keep their feet firmly on the ground Ludlow, Cleobury Mortimer and Church Stretton all have excellent golf courses and excellent views - at 365m altitude, 14th at Church Stretton is spectacular.

Fishing

Fishing is available including trout fishing at Delbury Hall. For more information of all of these contact the local Visitor Information Centres.

Pedal power...

Whether it's cycling along quiet country lanes or mountain biking in forests, you'll find it all in the Shropshire Hills. Remember to stop now and again to enjoy the view.

Six Castles Cycleway (58 mile linear route)

Also known as Route 44, this cycle ride between Shrewsbury and Leominster forms part of the National Cycle Network. Challenging in places, it meanders along quiet roads between England and Wales, taking in six very different castles and connects with the trains at Shrewsbury, Craven Arms and Ludlow.

Woodland and forest mountain bike routes

Many of the local woods have cycle trails which vary in length and difficulty. Hopton Wood includes family trails and a competition route for experienced mountain bikers. For more information visit www.forestry.gov.uk/marches.

Rural cycle rides (8 to 35 mile circular routes)

Circular cycle rides start from each market town and leaflets include route maps, instructions and points of interest. These along with the 'Cycling for Pleasure' series are available from local Visitor Information Centres or visit www.shropshirecycling.co.uk

Cycling Holidays

Cycling holidays and cycle hire available from www.wheelywonderfulcycling.co.uk or 01568 770755

Electric Bike Hire

Church Stretton electric bike hire, contact 01694 723939

Cycling Events

Bishop's Castle Tandem Triathlon - 3rd July Tour de Ludlow - 16th June

Trot on...

You are spoilt for choice with a series of great horse rides taking you across open moorland, through wooded valleys and along quiet country lanes. Spend a few hours gently hacking or plan a day expedition.

Blue Remembered Hills Bridleway

A 38 mile circular route around Clun and Bishop's Castle. Explore the hills and valleys, and enjoy the views and history on this route.

Jack Mytton Way

Split into eight sections, this bridleway covers nearly 100 miles and links with Ride Shropshire circuits so you can explore even more on horseback.

Ride Shropshire - South Shropshire Hills

A series of ten interlinking routes covering Wenlock Edge, the Long Mynd and the Stiperstones, following bridleways, byways and quiet lanes. The majority of these routes are off-road, and cyclists and walkers can follow the trails as well. Further information from Visitor Information Centres or www.shropshireriding.co.uk.

Horses on Holiday

Marches Horse Trails is set up for you to bring your own horse on holiday. The rides link circular and linear routes to businesses who can offer a variety of accommodation for both you and your horse. For more information visit www.marcheshorsetrails.co.uk