Church Stretton Sunday 30th September 2007

Today’s Walks

Strenuous Leader: Jackie Gudgeon     Distance: 10 miles

Today we are going to study the valley which contains Church Stretton from both sides. First we will climb Caer Caradoc (very steep but shortish climb) then we will cross over the A49 to tackle the Long Mynd via All Stretton, Long Batch, and Carding Mill Valley. A good varied walk with stunning views, weather permitting.

Moderate Leader: Chris Cox     Distance : 8 miles

Train Station – Cunnery Road – The Owlets – Little Stretton Camp Site – Callow Hill – Cross Dyke – Round Hill – Pole Bank – Shooting Box – Jack Mytton Way – Carding Mill Valley – minor road back to Church Stretton.
A journey to the top of the Long Mynd! The high point is called Pole Bank, 516m (1652ft). fortunately, we start off at about 200m, so only 316m to climb. The paths are good, but there are one or two steep sections which provide an opportunity to look behind and enjoy the view. The return walk through Carding Mill Valley takes us through a narrow path between the steep Shropshire hills back to Church Stretton. We should be back in time for a tea and scone, or possibly something stronger..

Leisurely Leader: Ruth Melling & Hazel Anderton     Distance 7 miles

A very pleasant varied walk with good views most of the way as we go across fields, down lanes, through woods and over a bracken covered moor. After leaving town we skirt Helmeth and Hazler Hills, gradually rising up to the top of Ragleth Hill. Here, weather permitting, we can tarry a while to enjoy the splendid 360 degree panoramic views. We then drop down hill, re cross the main road, and go through the hamlet of Little Stretton, where there are some lovely old buildings, before making our way back to town along the foothills of the Long Mynd.

Easy Leader: Sue Daniels

I have not been able to do a pre-walk for today, but I intend to take the group over to All Stretton and then follow lanes and pathways towards Leebotwood. We can judge how far we can go on the day.