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The Carding Mill Valley and The Long Mynd walk is a classic Shropshire ramble offering an appealing blend of scenic beauty, diverse landscapes, and panoramic views. Starting from the charming town of Church Stretton, the route winds gently upward through the picturesque Carding Mill Valley, a favourite spot bustling with nature enthusiasts and families.
As you leave the valley floor behind, the path steepens briefly, ascending steadily onto the sweeping, open expanses of the Long Mynd plateau. Here, the views open dramatically, presenting a stunning vista across the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. On a clear day, sights extend toward the Welsh border, with iconic hills like Caer Caradoc and The Wrekin prominently on display.
Traversing the plateau, you’ll find yourself amidst rolling heather-covered moors, punctuated by tumuli and historic earthworks. Passing close to Pole Bank—the highest point of the Long Mynd at 516 metres—there's an opportunity for a quick detour to fully appreciate the exceptional panoramic views.
From here, the route gently descends through scenic moorland and crosses attractive streams, heading towards the quaint village of Ratlinghope. The terrain is varied but manageable, consisting mostly of clearly marked paths and grassy trails, making it accessible for most walkers with moderate fitness.
After Ratlinghope, you loop around via charming rural landscapes with pockets of woodland and rolling fields, eventually reconnecting with your outward path. As you make your final descent back into Carding Mill Valley, the route offers a satisfying sense of completion alongside one last visual treat.
The route is listed at 15.3 km, with an estimated walking time of about five hours. Allow longer for steep or wet ground, navigation and stops. It's considered moderately challenging due to its length and occasional inclines, making it a rewarding day out for walkers looking for a blend of gentle adventure and stunning landscapes.
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The Carding Mill Valley and The Long Mynd walk is a classic Shropshire ramble offering an appealing blend of scenic beauty, diverse landscapes, and panoramic views. Starting from the charming town of Church Stretton, the route winds gently upward through the picturesque Carding Mill Valley, a favourite spot bustling with nature enthusiasts and families.
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A few things to know before you make plans.
You can be the first to join a scheduled walk. A suggested date is an idea for a group walk; choose Set this date up to organise it. Check the participant list and meeting details before setting off.
Choose Put a date on this walk to organise a group walk. Not ready to choose a day? Follow the route for scheduling updates, or save it for later.
The organiser sets the date and meeting details and helps the group get started. They are a fellow walker and may be new to the route too.
Each walker is responsible for their own safety and navigation. Check the route, weather, equipment and whether the walk suits your experience and fitness.
Yes. Choose Walk this route on your own to open the start screen, then start when you are ready. Finish the walk to add it to your walking history. You do not need a group date.
Use the walk page to check meeting details, updates and who is going. Check in from 24 hours before the start to let the group know you still plan to come.
Check the participant list and check-ins, and message the organiser or other walkers to confirm where to meet and who is coming. This is especially useful when the group is small.
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