The Long Mynd
rocky climbs, incredible views and wild swimming spots
Church Stretton, Shropshire, SY6 6JG
Visit WebsiteNestled on the England/Wales border, the Shropshire Hills, although officially an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, are in our opinion, a hugely underappreciated part of the UK. With almost 7 miles of heathland plateau, wild ponies, rocky climbs, incredible views and wild swimming spots, we think the Long Mynd is a perfect introduction to all that the Shropshire Hills has to offer.
- Children Welcome
- Good Food
- Multiple Dogs Allowed
- Parking
- Rural Walks
Good to know
Overview
Start this walk from the National Trust car park at Carding Mill Valley; a popular spot with families in the summer with shallow streams for splashing around in and plenty of picnic spots. Follow the signs for Lightspout Waterfall, then continue on past it and you’ll likely only have sheep and the odd wild pony for company from this point on.
Once you’re up on the vast plateau at the top, it feels like stepping into true wilderness with miles of moorland stretching in each direction. The views in late summer are truly spectacular, with the flowering heather transforming the landscape into a sea of purple – a perfect photo opportunity for you and your pooch!
At this point, you can be spontaneous and take advantage of the vast network of footpaths to explore more. We love to go in search of the herds of wild ponies that call the Long Mynd home. Alternatively, for a shorter walk, simply turn right once you meet the Jack Mytton Way to follow the path all the way back into the valley.
For pups (and humans!) that love a paddle, take a short detour from the main route for a refreshing dip in the disused Carding Mill Valley reservoir. Just follow the signs from the second car park and it’s a gentle 10 minute walk up to the reservoir.
Walking at a leisurely pace and with plenty of stops for photos, this walk should take around 1.5 – 2 hours. We love to wander into Church Stretton afterwards for a hearty lunch or to agonise over the selection of cakes at the lovely Jemima’s Kitchen, where you and your four-legged friend are guaranteed to receive a warm welcome and leave with full tummies.
For The Dogs
There are sheep grazing all year round so four-legged friends will need to be kept under close control or on leads at all times.
Opening Hours
There are no opening hours as such; go from dawn until dusk.
Parking
Park at National Trust Carding Mill Valley (SY6 6JG). It’s free for National Trust members.
The Area
If you have a head for heights, drive up the Bur Way from Church Stretton, a treacherously steep (up to 20% incline in some parts) and narrow road that snakes up to the vast plateau of the Long Mynd. There are plenty of parking spots up on the top. Get out and take a stroll amongst the heather with your pooch. This road also avoids the steep walk up from the bottom of the valley. It’s a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site, with views of the Milky Way on clear nights.
