SO6410 : Heading North from Staple-edge Bungalows

Staple Edge Hill

228m Elevation
61m Prominence
England Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

SO6410 : Heading North from Staple-edge Bungalows

Pauline E Photo source

Overview

Staple Edge Hill

Welcome to Staple Edge Hill, a little gem in the Shropshire Hills that beckons hikers with its inviting trails and splendid vistas! Standing at a respectable 401 meters, it might not be the highest hill in England, but it packs a punch with its scenic views and charming surroundings.

Geology

The backbone of Staple Edge Hill is made up of sandstone, shaped by the forces of nature over millions of years. Fans of geology will enjoy exploring the interesting rock formations and may even spy some fossils for a bonus find!

Routes

The Staple Edge Circuit
  • Distance: 6.5 km
  • Time: Approximately 2.5 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate
    This route is perfect for a pleasant afternoon stroll or a brisk walk. Starting from the A49, you’ll wind your way through picturesque pastures and light woodlands that frame the path beautifully.

Summit Features

Reaching the summit, you'll be greeted by a sturdy stone cairn and a trig point that’s seen more selfies than a celebrity on opening night. It’s a great spot to catch your breath and take in the sweeping views!

Terrain Type

Expect a mix of grassy paths with occasional rocky outcrops that give you a little extra challenge—and bragging rights to those who fancy themselves as expert navigators.

Views

From the summit, the panorama unfolds in every direction. Look out for the majestic Long Mynd and the iconic Wrekin to the east. In the right weather, you might even spot the distant peaks of Wales! The best times to revel in these views are the spring and autumn months.

Hazards

While the paths are generally good, a little caution goes a long way. After rainfall, those stones can become a bit like a greased pig! And do keep an eye out for those local sheep; they think they own the place.

Nearby Summits

For those with a bit more energy, nearby Clee Hill and Ragleth Hill offer additional routes to explore.

Access

Nearest Parking: A small lay-by on the A49, perfect for those travelling by car. Just remember, arrive early to beat the crowds!

Public Transport: Church Stretton is serviced by local buses, making this a convenient hill to access all year round.

Nearest Town: Church Stretton is not just your nearest town; it’s a charming hub that resonates with hiking culture.

Facilities

You won’t go hungry here! Church Stretton provides a variety of cafes and shops, plus public toilets for a quick pit stop. Perfectly positioned for a warm cuppa after your hearty adventure!

History

The hill's name—a nod to its pillar-like stature—has been part of local lore for centuries. Legend has it that ancient warriors wandered these lands, perhaps contemplating their next quest! A dash of history makes your hike even more intriguing.

Whether you’re here for the exercise, the views, or a good old-fashioned picnic, Staple Edge Hill is ready to welcome every adventurer with open arms. Now, what are you waiting for?

Happy Hiking!

Explore routes near Staple Edge Hill

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

Forest of Dean Full Colliers Trail from Cannop Ponds

14.7 km ~4h 15m Moderate

View route

Forest of Dean Hicksters Way Woodland Circuit from Cannop

7.9 km ~2h 45m Moderate

View route

Woodchester Park: Tinkley Gate, lakes and Mansion woodland walk

5.1 km ~2h Moderate

View route

Clytha Estate: River Usk, Chapel Ruins and Castle Woods

5.1 km ~2h Easy

View route

Route planning notes

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

The Staple Edge Circuit

A lovely loop that takes you from the nearest village up through scenic pastures and along light woodland paths towards the summit.

6.5 km ~2.5 hours Moderate
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

200-299m hill

Elevation

228m

748 ft

Prominence

61m

Coordinates

51.7909, -2.5150

SO645103

OS Map

162

Explorer: OL14E

At the Summit

The summit features a large stone cairn and a modest trig point, perfect for those camera moments when you want to prove you've actually conquered something!

Terrain & Geology

Grassy with some rocky outcrops ideal for those seeking a bit of variety underfoot.

The hill is primarily composed of sandstone, which is a characteristic feature of the Shropshire Hills. This sedimentary rock formation offers not just spectacular views but also a rich history of geological development dating back to the Permian period.

Views & Scenery

On a clear day, the views extend to the Long Mynd, the Wrekin, and even all the way to the Welsh mountains to the west. A real feast for the eyes!

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Staple' is derived from the Old English 'stapol,' meaning 'pillar' or 'post.' A fitting name for a place that stands tall!

Historical Significance

Historically, Staple Edge Hill has been a part of local folklore and is surrounded by tales of ancient warriors and mystical happenings from times long gone.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small lay-by on the A49, a few minutes' walk from the trailhead. Arrive early to nab a spot, especially on weekends!

Public Transport

Bus services run from nearby towns such as Church Stretton to various points on the A49.

Nearby Facilities

In Church Stretton, you'll find plenty of cafes, shops, and even public toilets to freshen up before or after your hiking adventures.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be wary of wet weather as the paths can become slippery. Also, watch for occasional livestock grazing along the routes!

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 Staple Edge Hill?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Staple Edge Hill through the maps

Are there other walkers around Staple Edge Hill?

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 Staple Edge Hill search or of course create your own walk for Staple Edge Hill

Can I organise a walk to Staple Edge Hill?

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 Staple Edge Hill.

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 Staple Edge Hill?

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 Staple Edge Hill here

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

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

Staple Edge Hill location map

Grid reference: SO645103

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Nearby Hills

Worcestershire Beacon

425m

Titterstone Clee Hill

533m

Glastonbury Tor

158m

Long Mynd - Pole Bank

517m

 The Wrekin

The Wrekin

407m
See 5 more nearby hills