IMPORTANT:
The weather in the hills can change rapidly, so please bring suitable clothing to protect yourself from the wet, cold and (hopefully!) sun. Sturdy footwear is essential and walking poles are recommended.
Always bring plenty to drink and sufficient food – the walks may take longer than you think.
Please note:
Always bring plenty to drink and sufficient food – the walks may take longer than you think.
Please note:
- Regrettably, we cannot accept dogs on the walks because of livestock in the fields.
- Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
THURSDAY 14TH MAY 2026
Walk Title: |
"Town Walk" |
Grade: |
Gentle |
Distance: |
1.5 miles / 2 km |
Ascent: |
348 ft / 58 m |
Meeting Point/Time: |
Lychgate at St Johns Church, Church Street, Bishop's Castle, SY9 5AA W3W continues.heartache.jiggle SO 323 885 10 am |
Walk Leaders: |
In conjunction with BC Town Guides |
Description of walk: A short and meandering walk through the town with the experienced Town Guides. Local and international historical links are shared and developed through a visit to the House on Crutches Museum (beside the Town Hall) and onwards towards the Castle Grounds. “ Bishop’s Castle could be prosecuted under trades descriptions act – it has neither a Bishop nor a Castle’ Join this quirky and informative saunter, taking 2hrs. Discover the history, buildings and layout of the 'plantation market town' and hear about some of the characters and events that shaped it. The route is within the town and includes a couple of grassland areas. Bishop's Castle is on a hill, so there is some uphill walking, but the pace will be gentle with plenty of stops for talking.
Cost £8.00
Cost £8.00
THURSDAY 14TH MAY 2026
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Description of Walk: In 2025, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the town’s Walking Festival, 25 Scots Pine were planted locally to replace the dying and fallen trees that once helped to guide drovers with their herds from the hills and valleys of Wales to markets in the Midlands. A tradition that continued until the mid-1800s. The anniversary, circular, “Stroll” offers the opportunity to see some of these newly planted pines and to gain an insight into past journeys across this beautiful borderland. We will explore the area to the west of Bishop’s Castle following gentle field paths, tracks and lanes, staying close to the town but all with fine views. This short walk will end with an optional pub lunch in the town!
Cost: £8.00
Cost: £8.00
THURSDAY 14TH MAY 2026
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Description of Walk: We will walk an old drove route along the length of Stapeley Common, passing through Mitchell’s Fold stone circle, to reach the distinctive landmark of Bromlow Callow, which features in Mary Webb’s Gone to Earth. From here we return towards Stapeley, taking a loop around Castle Ring hillfort before rejoining the common and walking back past the stones, enjoying tremendous views in all directions. It's hilly country with rough, uneven ground. We’re mainly following tracks and lanes but in places we’ll be walking on rougher paths. Please bring snacks and drinks with you.
At the end of the walk, we will catch the Dial a Ride back to Bishop’s Castle.
Cost £12.00
At the end of the walk, we will catch the Dial a Ride back to Bishop’s Castle.
Cost £12.00
THURSDAY 14TH MAY 2026
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Description of Walk: We walk through town to pick up field paths and meet the drovers’ route from Wales known as Kerry Ridgeway. Deemed as significant by the Normans, they built a Motte & Bailey castle as a border post at this spot, it is now known as Bishop’s Moat. We’ll walk away, along the modernised version of the Ridgeway towards a yet older border marker, still known as Offa’s Dyke. We turn off to pick up this long-distance structure, which we follow down to Churchtown and Mainstone. From there we climb again, up onto Reilth Mynd for more spectacular views, now of the Unk valley, before descending back to Bishops Castle for refreshment in the Six Bells pub. You will need to bring your lunch with you. We will have a stop for elevenses and again for lunch.
Cost £8.00
Cost £8.00
THURSDAY 14TH MAY 2026
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Description of Walk: A varied walk through an ancient landscape, encompassing heathland, woodland, forestry, open pastures and streamside. We meet at the Auction Yard to car share for our 15-minute drive to the village of Hopesay. Leaving the village, we ascend Hopesay Hill crossing Hopesay Common (National Trust), a landscape of upland pastures dotted with botanically rich springs and flushes. From the hill we have fine views across the valley to Burrow Hill iron age fort. Continuing along an easy path we head towards Wart Hill iron-age hill fort. We then follow forestry tracks to reach Heath Wood, an Ancient Woodland. Leaving the wood, we walk streamside to reach Basford Bank and onward to the village of Edgton, where we pass by St Michaels Church (13th century). A short section of minor road takes us to Basford. Skirting Stocking Wood we cross open pastures before descending through Madam’s Wood to return to Hopesay. Walking boots and weather appropriate clothing are essential - bring lunch and drinks. Loos at Auction Yard
Cost £8.00
Cost £8.00
THURSDAY 14TH MAY 2026
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Description of Walk: A spectacular walk along arguably the best section of the Shropshire Way. Offering stunning views, it passes through landscapes steeped in history, legend and myth. Starting at the old lead mining village of Snailbeach we ascend past the evocative ruins of the once thriving mine works, through woodland and on to open hillside with spectacular views to the north and west. We then pick up the Shropshire Way and make our way along the rocky, uneven Stiperstones passing its famous quartzite tors, including Manstone Rock the second highest point in Shropshire (536m). After descending Stiperstones we continue along the Shropshire Way, over Nipstone Hill (watch out for red kites and buzzards) and Linley Hill before descending through the famous Linley Beeches, a historic and iconic avenue of beech trees planted in the 18th century. The route then becomes gentler as we wind our way along lanes and field paths, before a final ascent to Bishops Castle. On Stiperstones the path is rocky and uneven. It can be slippery in wet weather. Some steep ascents and descents. Good boots and poles recommended. Bring a packed lunch and drinks. Toilets at start and finish.
Cost £12.00
Cost £12.00
FRIDAY 15TH MAY 2026 SOLD OUT
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Description of Walk: With the Dial a Ride minibus taking the strain, we will travel up the hill to the south of Clun and be dropped off near Fiddlers Elbow. Using the many and various tracks of this Forestry landscape we will explore the recently restored community common and use contouring tracks giving views of cwms and vales in many directions and then descend steadily into the ancient market town of Clun. Time permitting, we have a chance to visit a couple of iconic sites of historic interest and will be picked up for the return journey from beside the Castle & River Clun. It will be a full morning walk so bring along some refreshments (returning to Bishop's Castle at 2/2.30pm) and clothing to cope with any weather. The tracks are well maintained.
Cost £12.00
Cost £12.00
FRIDAY 15TH MAY 2026
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Description of Walk: In 2025, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the town’s Walking Festival, 25 Scots Pine were planted locally to replace the dying and fallen trees that once helped to guide drovers with their herds from the hills and valleys of Wales to markets in the Midlands. A tradition that continued until the mid-1800s. The anniversary, circular, “Stomp” offers the opportunity to see some of these newly planted pines and to gain an insight into past journeys across this beautiful borderland. We will explore the area to the west of Bishop’s Castle using marked footpaths with stiles and gates across fields with some uphill sections, all with fine views. Please bring lunch, snacks and drinks. We will have rest stops around coffee time and for lunch.
Cost £8.00
Cost £8.00
FRIDAY 15TH MAY 2026
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Description of Walk: Starting with a short ride on the Public Service Bus to the historic town of Clun, we head straight into the grounds of Clun Castle, sitting high on a natural rocky mound in a loop of the river. After a short detour to enjoy the spectacular views from the castle and learn a little of its origins, history and significance, we follow the Shropshire Way along the peaceful river valley, before climbing up the long ridge of Cefns, where excellent views unfold all around on a clear day. A section of road walking on quiet lanes takes us down into the peaceful valley of the River Unk, where we enter the beautiful Fron Wood. In the company of ancient woodland plants and woodland birds, we climb steeply up through the trees to re-join the Shropshire Way on open ground above. The final section of the walk takes us down into the Woodbatch Valley and through the lovely Cwmmawr Dingle, before a short walk through meadows bring us back into Bishop’s Castle for a well-earned cuppa or pint. There are no toilet or refreshment facilities en-route, so a packed lunch, drinks and snacks sufficient for the duration are essential. It includes some steep paths and open country. Walking boots and warm, waterproof clothing are essential.
Cost: £8.00
Cost: £8.00
FRIDAY 15TH MAY 2026
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Description of Walk: The “Three in One” Walk combines sections of the Shropshire Way, Offa’s Dyke, and the Kerry Ridgeway.
The Shropshire Way is a long-distance trail that will guide us along scenic footpaths and country roads to the west of Bishop’s Castle. The section of Offa’s Dyke we’ll explore features a series of steep climbs and descents, which can be slippery in wet conditions. This remarkable earthwork runs roughly along the historic border between England and Wales. The Kerry Ridgeway is an ancient drovers’ route once used to move livestock from Wales into England. Our walk follows footpaths and quiet country lanes back to Bishop’s Castle, offering breathtaking views across both countries. Bring your own food and drink for a picnic lunch and be prepared for a brisk walking pace. There are no toilets or shops along the route, so please plan accordingly.
Cost £8.00
The Shropshire Way is a long-distance trail that will guide us along scenic footpaths and country roads to the west of Bishop’s Castle. The section of Offa’s Dyke we’ll explore features a series of steep climbs and descents, which can be slippery in wet conditions. This remarkable earthwork runs roughly along the historic border between England and Wales. The Kerry Ridgeway is an ancient drovers’ route once used to move livestock from Wales into England. Our walk follows footpaths and quiet country lanes back to Bishop’s Castle, offering breathtaking views across both countries. Bring your own food and drink for a picnic lunch and be prepared for a brisk walking pace. There are no toilets or shops along the route, so please plan accordingly.
Cost £8.00
SATURDAY 16TH MAY 2026 SOLD OUT
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Description of Walk: “Running from North, North West to South, South East from Pound House to Brompton Hall, this walk follows the almost straight line of Offa’s Dyke. Starting at 80 meters the Dyke itself rarely rises to 150 meters, making the walk almost level. Underfoot the track is well trodden. About halfway, we take a diversion and a short, easy climb into the historic town of Montgomery for refreshments. The castle, built in 1223 can be seen from below on its rocky viewpoint. The walk passes close to the Robber’s grave near the church which was begun in 1227. In this pretty town, with public toilets, is the traditional ironmongers of Bunners begun in 1892, other shops, a bookshop and cafés. We leave the town through Lyemore Park on a metaled track and then continue to follow Offa’s Dyke to the crossroads at the national boundary at The Blue Bell. The transport will return us to Bishop's Castle for 3.30pm. Views from the walk are unexpectedly good as there are hills to be seen to East, West and South. On the Dyke itself are numerous, well established oak trees with other flourishing hedgerow plants and their accompanying wildlife. Buzzards and Red Kites are often to be seen."
Cost: £12.00
Cost: £12.00
SATURDAY 16TH MAY 2026 SOLD OUT
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Description of Walk: We disembark from the bus roughly eight miles north of Bishop's Castle and quickly find ourselves traversing a rolling ridge with impressive views. Evidence of the area's flourishing 19th-century lead mining industry is still visible. Our route then leads us down into the valley, through a fascinating private garden, before we make a steady ascent to the end of the Stiperstones ridge—the highest point of our journey. Here, surrounded by heather, bilberries, and accompanied by the songs of skylarks and meadow pipits, we pause for lunch and enjoy the scenery. The last mile brings us to The Bog Visitor Centre and the remnants of The Bog Mine. At around 3:00 pm, the minibus will take us back to Bishop's Castle. Please be aware that this walk includes stiles and some rocky paths. Be sure to bring your own food and drink.
Cost: £12.00
Cost: £12.00
SATURDAY 16TH MAY 2025
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SATURDAY 16TH MAY 2026
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Description of Walk: This walk takes us across fields and through woodland to the west of Bishop’s Castle. Starting off south we are taking in part of the Shropshire Way and then head west through Blakeridge Woods. On the way back to Bishop’s Castle we pick up the Shropshire Way again and walk through Cwm Dingle. We will be rewarded with lovely views of the Long Mynd, Bury Ditches and the Unk Valley. Toilets are available at the start point and parking is free. The walk is energetic, and you should carry lunch/snacks and drink.
Cost £8.00
Cost £8.00
SATURDAY 16TH MAY 2026
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Description of Walk: A journey blending history, myth and beautiful remote borderland. Heading off along the Shropshire Way, we leave Bishop’s Castle on tracks and paths across farmland and along a delightful valley. Our climb up Colebatch Hill is rewarded with stunning views of the Kerry Hills. Skirting the wooded Usk Valley and Churchtown, we meet the Offa’s Dyke National Trail. With some steep ascents and descents, we walk alongside one of the best-preserved sections of the massive earthworks, built in the 8th century by King Offa of Mercia to mark the boundary between his kingdom and the Welsh kingdoms. Leaving the dyke, we pick up Wild Edric's Way (named after a legendary Saxon nobleman) and the Shropshire Way, which take us along the broad Cefns ridge before descending to the ancient town of Clun and our journey’s end by the ruins of the 11th century border castle. Footpaths and tracks. Some steep ascents and descents. Good boots and poles (if used).
Bring a packed lunch and drinks. Toilets at start and finish.
Cost: £12.00
Bring a packed lunch and drinks. Toilets at start and finish.
Cost: £12.00
SUNDAY17TH MAY 2026
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Description of Walk: A short and meandering walk through the town with the experienced Town Guides. Local and international historical links are shared and developed through a visit to the House on Crutches Museum (beside the Town Hall) and onwards towards the Castle Grounds. “Bishop’s Castle could be prosecuted under trades descriptions act – it has neither a Bishop nor a Castle’ Join this quirky and informative saunter, taking 2hrs, at a gentle pace on the pavements and shuts of this medieval planned town.
Cost: £8.00
Cost: £8.00
SUNDAY 17TH MAY 2026 SOLD OUT
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Description of Walk: Meet at the Auction Yard car park (Bishops Castle) at 9.30am for car sharing the short distance to the interesting village of Norbury. We walk gently uphill northwest through Nurton to join the Shropshire Way. Turning right we ascend Norbury Hill through Linley Beeches, an avenue used by previous residents of Linley Hall to impress their visitors. We pass a Roman outpost and an Iron Age burial stone before turning southeast on footpaths to reach the minor road leading southwest back to Norbury. Far reaching views are assured for this area steeped in history. Bring a drink and a snack lunch. Estimated finishing time 1pm.
Cost £8.00
Cost £8.00
SUNDAY 17TH MAY 2026
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Description of Walk: This scenic circular walk begins in Craven Arms at the Discovery Centre, heading west across open fields to reach Hopesay Common, from where there are expansive views of the Shropshire Hills. From the Common the route continues to Wart Hill, the site of a prehistoric hillfort dating from the Iron Age (roughly 800 BC to 100 AD). Wart Hill offers sweeping views across the Onny Valley. Descending from Wart Hill, we follow paths and tracks through woodlands and farmland, to join the Onny Trail. Now a tranquil riverside path lined with woodland and rich in wildlife, it was once the route of the doomed Bishop’s Castle railway. After a while we leave the trail behind to follow quite country lanes through the quiet and picturesque village of Wistanstow. After crossing the A49, we return to peaceful riverside field and woodland paths with views of meadows, wildlife and the surrounding hills. As we near Craven Arms, we pass the old weir, before returning to the Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre. Bring a packed lunch and drinks. Toilets at start and finish (Craven Arms).
Cost: £12.00
Cost: £12.00
SUNDAY 17TH MAY 2026
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Description of Walk: This fairly strenuous upland walk combines stretches of open footpaths, quiet lanes and woodland rides, passing through that little explored area to the west of the Bog Visitor Centre with the Stiperstones ridge as the backdrop to the day. Ascending several hills along the route, and weather permitting, we will enjoy some typical sweeping and far-reaching hilltop views. Our route provides an introduction to the area’s often breathtaking natural beauty, and we will be looking out for some of the many examples of its abundant and diverse wildlife, intriguing geological formations and scattered remnants of past farming and mining communities that have shaped the landscape over many centuries. We will be surrounded with examples of recent efforts, both small and at-scale, aimed at protecting the landscape and reversing nature’s decline. For those who are interested and inspired, there will be time to ‘walk and talk’ about all the things that we can do to play our own part in this important work. Come prepared for a few stretches of more hilly terrain. And bring some lunch!
Cost £8.00
Cost £8.00
SUN 17TH MAY 2026
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Description of Walk: Dial a Ride will take us out to the western edge of the Clun valley and the start of the walk from Weals Farm to Bishops Castle. Initially the route rises from 315 to 420 m (within 1 mile) and continues to The Riddings then over undulating terrain towards Barretts farm and north to The Kerry Ridgeway before dropping down to the Edenhope valley. From there the route rises again to Bishop's Moat followed by a short section of road to the track beyond Shepardswhim, emerging at Banks Head to the Wintles and into Bishop's Castle. This cross section of border countryside will highlight changes in the farming landscape over the last 100-150 years. It will be identifying remnant piecemeal enclosures around farms and small holdings compared to planned enclosures of the Clun Forest. Possibly some reference to my own family progressions / migrations between tenanted farms. The walking conditions will vary -mostly firm underfoot with a variety of stiles and 2 streams to cross. Views will be extensive from the tops with comparisons between the Clun valley and the Camlad valley. Bring food and drinks for the day as there are no facilities along the route.
Cost £12.00
Cost £12.00