Everything You Need to Know About the Stiperstones Walk

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If you’re looking for a fantastic walk in Shropshire, you’ve got to check out the Stiperstones Walk. It’s a brilliant spot, full of history, stunning views, and some pretty cool rock formations.

I had the chance to do this walk on a sunny Sunday morning in June. The weather was absolutely perfect for a good stroll – not too hot, not too cold, and the sky was putting on a real show with some amazing cloud formations.

I wasn’t alone on this adventure. My two older brothers, who live in different parts of the country, decided to join me. We don’t get to see each other as much as we’d like, so we thought, why not catch up over a walk in the Shropshire Hills? And let me tell you, it was a great decision.

What Are the Stiperstones

So, you might be wondering, what exactly are the Stiperstones? Well, they’re a series of rugged, jagged hills located in Shropshire. The most striking feature is the quartzite ridge that runs along the top, which gives it a really unique and dramatic look.

The Stiperstones Walk

Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the Stiperstones Walk. We kicked off our journey from the Stiperstones car park, a convenient starting point with plenty of space. From there, we followed the well-marked trail that led us straight into the heart of the Stiperstones.

The walk itself is a bit of a mixed bag, with some easy stretches, a few steep climbs, and a whole lot of stunning views. The highlight, of course, is the quartzite ridge. It’s a bit of a scramble to get to the top, but trust me, the panoramic views of the Shropshire Hills are worth every bit of effort.

Walking with my brothers made the experience even more special. We chatted, laughed, and took a ridiculous number of photos. The weather was on our side too, with the sun shining brightly and a gentle breeze keeping us cool. It was one of those days that remind you of the simple joy of being outdoors.

• Click Here for the OS Maps Route

The Stiperstones Circular Walk

If you’re up for a bit more of a challenge, you might want to try the Stiperstones Circular Walk. This route takes you on a full loop around the Stiperstones, giving you a chance to see the area from all angles.

The circular walk is about 8 miles long and takes around 4-5 hours to complete, depending on your pace. It’s a bit more challenging than the main walk, with a few steep climbs and descents, but don’t let that put you off. The views are even more spectacular, and there’s a real sense of achievement when you complete the loop.

We decided to take on the circular walk, and it was a fantastic decision. The extra distance gave us more time to chat, more opportunities to take photos, and more stunning views to enjoy. Plus, there’s something satisfying about ending up right back where you started, knowing you’ve explored every nook and cranny of the Stiperstones. It was a day well spent and left us with a real sense of appreciation for the beauty of the Shropshire Hills.

• Click Here for the OS Maps Route

The Rock Formations

One of the standout features of the Stiperstones Walk is, without a doubt, the rock formations. These aren’t your everyday rocks; they’re towering quartzite structures that jut out from the landscape, creating a dramatic and otherworldly scene. The most famous of these is the Devil’s Chair, a massive, throne-like formation that’s a must-see on the walk.

Scrambling over these rocks was a real thrill. It’s not every day you get to clamber over ancient quartzite formations, after all. There’s something about the rough texture under your hands, the challenge of finding the best route up, and the satisfaction of reaching the top that’s just incredibly fun. Plus, the views from the top are nothing short of spectacular.

Myths and Legends of Stiperstones

Now, what would a walk be without a bit of local lore to spice things up? The Stiperstones has its fair share of myths and legends, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the walk. The most famous of these is the legend of the Devil’s Chair. According to local folklore, the Devil himself visits the Stiperstones and sits on his ‘chair’ whenever he wants to cause mischief in the area.

It’s fascinating to think about how these tales have been passed down through generations, shaping the way people see and interact with the landscape. It’s a reminder that the Stiperstones isn’t just a place for a walk; it’s a place steeped in history, mystery, and a bit of good old-fashioned folklore.

Getting to the Stiperstones

So, you’re probably wondering, “How do I get to the Stiperstones?” Well, it’s easier than you might think. If you’re driving, you can use the postcode SY5 0NG for your sat-nav, which will take you straight to the Stiperstones car park. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Shrewsbury, the nearest large town.

If you’re relying on public transport, you can catch a bus from Shrewsbury to the nearby village of Snailbeach, and from there, it’s a short walk to the Stiperstones. Just make sure to check the bus times, as they can be a bit sporadic.

Stiperstones Car Park

The Stiperstones car park is conveniently located right at the start of the walk, making it an ideal meeting point. It’s a decent-sized car park, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a spot, especially if you arrive early.

For us, the car park was the perfect starting point. It was easy to find, had plenty of space, and meant we could get straight onto the walk as soon as we all arrived. Plus, there’s something quite satisfying about returning to your car after a long walk, knowing that a comfortable seat and a well-earned snack are waiting for you!

The Bog Mine

Just a stone’s throw away from the Stiperstones is the Bog Mine, a fascinating piece of local history. Once a bustling lead mine in the 19th century, it’s now a visitor’s centre where you can learn all about the area’s mining past. It’s a great place to delve into the industrial heritage of the Shropshire Hills and understand the human impact on this beautiful landscape.

After our walk, my brothers and I headed to the Bog Mine visitor’s centre for a well-deserved break. We grabbed a coffee and a piece of cake, sat back, and reflected on our adventure. It was the perfect way to round off a great morning of walking.

The Stiperstones Inn

If you’re looking for a place to refuel after your walk, you can’t go wrong with the Stiperstones Inn. Located just a short drive from the Stiperstones car park, this traditional country pub offers a warm welcome, a great selection of food and drinks, and a cosy atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and share stories from your walk.

While we didn’t get the chance to visit the Inn this time, it’s definitely on our list for our next Stiperstones adventure. After all, what could be better than rounding off a day of walking with a hearty meal and a pint in a charming country pub?

Make It a Weekend Adventure

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If you’re looking for a walk that offers stunning views, a touch of history, and a good dose of adventure, I can’t recommend the Stiperstones Walk enough. So, lace up your walking boots, gather your loved ones, and set off on your own Stiperstones adventure. Trust me, you won’t regret it.