One of the best things about long summer days is enjoying long summer walks. Whether you’re visiting Ludlow for a day, a weekend, or longer, discover this idyllic corner of South Shropshire on foot and experience the benefits of the great outdoors.
Ludlow offers a range of walks that cater to all abilities. Whether you’re a history enthusiast keen to explore Ludlow Castle, or a nature lover eager to traverse the stunning Shropshire Hills, there’s something for everyone. We stock some excellent walking guides in our Gift Shop – including the AA’s 50 Walks in Shropshire, Walking the Shropshire Hills by Dennis and Jan Kelsall, and Shropshire Pub Walks – 20 of the best circular routes by Judy Smith. It’s worth a visit to get some inspiration and browse our vast collection of books.
Start Your Journey with Shropshire’s Great Outdoors
If you’re planning a visit to Ludlow and looking for a comprehensive list of walks, visit Shropshire’s Great Outdoors. Additionally, Ludlow.org.uk offers a handy guide to local walks with downloadable maps.
In and Around Ludlow
Here are a few of our favourite walks starting from Ludlow Castle. Ideal for a day out or a weekend in Ludlow.
1. Ludlow Castle Gardens & The Millennium Green
Duration: 15-30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
This picturesque route begins in the Castle gardens, winding downhill under ancient walls to The Linney and back to the Castle. Stop at Millennium Green, a local favourite for picnics and river views. Download the route here.
2. A Riverside Ramble – Ludlow Castle & The Bread Walk
Duration: 30-45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Another delightful short walk around the Castle and along the River Teme on the historic ‘Bread Walk,’ used during the 1850s as a riverside promenade. Look out for Broad Gate, the last surviving of seven gates in the town wall built in the 13th Century. Download the route here.
3. Mortimer Forest Circular from Ludlow Castle
Duration: 1-2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Explore the ancient Mortimer Forest, once a Royal hunting ground. Today, it offers walking, cycling, and horse-riding trails. The 4-mile Mortimer Forest Circular starts from Ludlow. Download the map here. Learn more about the forest here.
The Shropshire Hills
A short drive from Ludlow, the Shropshire Hills offer spectacular walking opportunities. Rugged enough to excite, yet gentle enough to pose no danger, these walks present discovery after discovery beneath big, wide skies, commanding views, and tranquil valleys.
Carding Mill Valley and The Long Mynd
Location: Near Church Stretton
The Long Mynd, part of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offers diverse walking routes. Carding Mill Valley provides excellent visitor facilities, including a tearoom, toilets, and parking. Enjoy gentle streams or tackle steep climbs for panoramic views. Church Stretton, known as “Little Switzerland,” is the perfect gateway with quaint streets and cafes.
The Stiperstones
Location: The Stiperstones Ridge
The Stiperstones, a spectacular hill ridge with jagged quartzite tors, offers a dramatic hiking experience. Rich in folklore and breathtaking vistas, this area is perfect for adventurous walks amidst stunning natural formations.
For more information and walking guides, visit Visit Shropshire Hills.
Ludlow Magnalonga Food Walk – The Perfect Blend of Good Food and Scenery
Location: Ludlow
Organised by the team behind the famous Ludlow Food Festival, the Ludlow Magnalonga on Sunday 11th August is an 8-mile ramble through the Shropshire countryside, showcasing local food and drink. This unique experience combines the joy of walking with sampling locally produced food and drinks. Find out more at www.magnalonga.co.uk.
Walking Holidays in Ludlow
Ludlow Castle Self-Catering offers a fantastic base for a walking holiday in South Shropshire. Our cosy apartments within the castle walls provide the perfect place to rest after your adventures. 17 Dinham, located next to the Castle walls, offers a delightful enclosed garden, ideal for dog owners. Find out more about a holiday at Ludlow Castle on our Stay page.
Planning Your Visit to Ludlow
The Ludlow Guide is a handy resource offering the latest on local events, places to eat, and shops to visit.
Make the most of your time in Ludlow, both on and off the trail.
