Long Mynd Ridge Walk
Church Stretton, Shropshire
The Long Mynd is a vast moorland plateau rising above the town of Church Stretton in the Shropshire Hills AONB. The ridge walk traverses open heather moorland at 500 metres with views across to the jagged spine of the Stiperstones and the Welsh mountains beyond.
The Route
Start from the Carding Mill Valley National Trust car park and climb the valley path through the steep-sided ravine. At the head of the valley, emerge onto the open moorland plateau. Turn south along the Portway, an ancient ridgeway track that runs the length of the Long Mynd. The wide grassy track crosses rolling heather with sweeping views in every direction. Return via one of the batches (steep valleys) that cut into the plateau.
Dog-Friendly Details
Dogs can be off-lead across the open moorland. The terrain is heather, bilberry and short grass - comfortable for dogs. Keep dogs under control during the ground-nesting season (March to July) as red grouse and skylark breed on the plateau. Streams in the batches provide drinking water. The climb out of Carding Mill Valley is the steepest section.
Practical Information
National Trust car park at Carding Mill Valley (free for members, pay-and-display otherwise). Cafe and toilets at the car park. Several excellent dog-friendly pubs in Church Stretton. The Long Mynd road from Ratlinghope is a narrow single-track - approach from Church Stretton instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
How steep is the climb up Long Mynd?
The climb through Carding Mill Valley gains about 300 metres over 1.5 miles. It is steady rather than extreme. Once on the plateau, the walking is mostly flat and easy.
Are there wild ponies on the Long Mynd?
Yes, semi-wild ponies graze the Long Mynd moorland. They are generally docile but keep dogs under control around them. Do not allow dogs to chase the ponies.
