Once again, a keen bunch of local walkers will be leading an interesting and exciting selection of walks in the outstanding scenery around Church Stretton. See what the Festival has to offer over four days: 20-23 June.
Focusing on the many beautiful routes that span the Long Mynd, there are several circular walks, each offering slightly different challenges and viewpoints. These are on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, and take in such delights as Barrister’s Plain, Jonathan’s Hollow, Ashes Hollow and of course Pole Bank.
Enjoy breathtaking views from Caer Caradoc Photo Credit: Geoff Taylor
Friday sees another Mynd walk, this time focusing on Landscape Photography led by keen local photographers, and is aimed at those looking to get the best out of the fantastic views available.
The hills to the east of Stretton are also well covered, with walks over Caer Caradoc, Hope Bowdler and Ragleth.
Walkies…with an amazing backdrop Photo Credit: Tom Rochester
New this year is The Great Big Dog Walk, aimed specifically at dog owners keen to explore the Mynd with their four-legged friends; a lovely route taking in Townbrook Hollow, Cwm Dale and Carding Mill Valley.
The ever-popular Pub Walks are on offer again: heading off to the Royal Oak at Cardington on Saturday and over the Mynd to Bridges on Sunday.
A short distance away you will find the Acton Scott walk, with a very scenic route starting from the Historic Working Farm.
For Malcolm Saville fans, the Malcolm Saville Society members are once again offering an interesting walk on the southern parts of the Mynd with a particular relevance to the books based in the area.
For those interested in having a go at Nordic Walking there will be an excellent introduction to this very healthy way of walking with poles led by a fully qualified Nordic Walking instructor.
And if you are looking for something a bit more challenging, how about trying the Skyline walk? This route takes in all the hills around Church Stretton — the Stretton 3 Peaks — promising a strenuous trek on the east side. Or you can have a go at the self-guided Mynd Drover — a full 26 miles of walking/running over the Long Mynd raising money for the local secondary school’s PTA.
Above Ashes Photo Credit: Geoff Taylor
Finally, with an educational wildlife walk, three great challenge walks, a Stars in your Skies astrology and geology walk and even Map & Compass courses, there really is something for every kind of walker.
If you enjoy hiking, roaming, strolling and discovering, these guided walks offer a great chance to explore the landscape…without worrying about getting lost!
For more info on the Church Stretton Walking Festival, click here