SO4194 : Pole Bank, summit of The Long Mynd

Long Mynd - Pole Bank

517m Elevation
191m Prominence
England Country

Good walks are even better shared.

SO4194 : Pole Bank, summit of The Long Mynd

Tim Heaton Photo source

Explore routes near Long Mynd - Pole Bank

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Carding Mill Valley to Pole Bank Circular

This popular route starts at the National Trust car park in Carding Mill Valley (SO445943). From here, follow the well-signposted trail through the valley before ascending to Pole Bank, the highest point of Long Mynd, offering panoramic views of Shropshire hills and beyond. Return via the more gradual descent along Townbrook Valley.

8.5 km ~3 hours Moderate

The Burway to Pole Bank Out-and-Back

Starting from the top of The Burway (SO443952), this straightforward route takes you along the ridge of Long Mynd to Pole Bank. The trail is well-defined and relatively gentle, making it suitable for less experienced walkers. Return the same way to enjoy views in both directions.

6 km ~2 hours Easy

Little Stretton to Pole Bank via Ashes Hollow

Begin at the car park in Little Stretton (SO440919) and follow the picturesque Ashes Hollow route. This path winds gently upwards alongside a stream, providing a tranquil ascent to Pole Bank. Descend back via the Minton Batch path for a varied and scenic circular walk.

10 km ~4 hours Moderate

Church Stretton to Pole Bank Circular

Starting from the town of Church Stretton (SO454936), this longer circular walk takes you through a mix of woodland trails and open heathland. Ascend via Carding Mill Valley, pass through Pole Bank, and return by descending through Townbrook Hollow.

12 km ~5 hours Challenging

Medlicott to Pole Bank via Wild Moor

Park near Medlicott (SO403932) and follow the path across Wild Moor to reach Pole Bank. This quieter route offers a sense of remoteness and stunning views across the Shropshire Hills. Return the same way or create a circular route by navigating back via Minton Batch.

9 km ~3.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Dewey

Elevation

517m

1,695 ft

Prominence

191m

Coordinates

52.5447, -2.8638

SO415944

OS Map

137

Explorer: 217

At the Summit

The summit features a prominent trig point and a stone shelter, making it a wonderful spot for a well-deserved rest. Have your camera ready for a fabulous view!

Terrain & Geology

The terrain alternates between grassy slopes and rocky outcrops ensuring every step is a pleasant surprise.

Long Mynd is primarily composed of Old Red Sandstone, resulting in striking hilly terrain with gentle slopes and deep valleys, a delight for geology enthusiasts and hikers alike.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see Cheviot Hills to the north, the Longmynd ridge to the south, and on a clear day, even the Malvern Hills in the distance.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Long Mynd' derives from 'mynd,' a local word for hill, reflecting its sweeping contours.

Historical Significance

Historically, this area has been a vital landscape for agriculture and grazing, rich in wildlife and biodiversity.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is ample parking at the Carding Mill Valley car park, though it can fill up quickly during weekends.

Public Transport

Buses run from Shrewsbury to Church Stretton, which is a short distance from the trailhead.

Nearby Facilities

Public toilets are available at Carding Mill Valley, with cafes offering refreshments in Church Stretton.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Watch out for sudden changes in weather; it can be sunny one moment and drizzly the next.
  • Some areas can be boggy after heavy rain, so sturdy boots are a must.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Long Mynd - Pole Bank?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Long Mynd - Pole Bank through the maps

Are there other walkers around Long Mynd - Pole Bank?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Long Mynd - Pole Bank search or of course create your own walk for Long Mynd - Pole Bank

Can I organise a walk to Long Mynd - Pole Bank?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Long Mynd - Pole Bank.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Long Mynd - Pole Bank?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Long Mynd - Pole Bank here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

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Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: SO415944

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