Wenlock Edge
A strenuous walk (low hills and fells (below 600m)) starting and finishing in Shropshire, England, about 26.30km (16.34 mi) long with an estimated walking time of about 8:00h (1 overnight stay). It is unsuitable for families with children, prams & pushchairs, wheelchairs.
Elevation Profile
Ascent
107m (351ft)
Descent
163m (534ft)
Max. Elevation
260m (853ft)
Altitude Gain & Loss
270m (885ft)
Start
Much Wenlock
End
Craven Arms
Distance
26.30km
(16.34mi)
(16.34mi)
Duration
~8:00h
Difficulty
Strenuous
Ordnance Survey Map
Wenlock Edge is a famous for its rich deciduous woodland, which attracts nature lovers from far and wide. The limestone escarpment stretches for 16 miles through the heart of Shropshire, and a hike along its full length makes for a long, but unforgettable, day out. For those who prefer to take things a bit easier, there is a Youth Hostel half way along so you can enjoy the edge over a more leisurely two days instead. Either way, it's a walk not to be missed in one of England's finest counties.
Walk Functions
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Waypoints
OS Grid SO617997
The walk can be done in either direction - both Much Wenlock and Craven Arms have good transport links - but heading north to south gives you the option of train connections from Craven Arms.
OS Grid SO603996
The path is well signposted from Much Wenlock, following the Jack Mytton Way. Jack Mytton was a Shropshire squire in the 17-1800s, and could apparently drank eight bottles of port a day. Something to consider once your walk is finished, perhaps.
About 1.40 km (~0.87 miles) from 
OS Grid SO582974
The northern end of Wenlock Edge is perhaps the most glorious, as the path leads along the face of the steep escarpment through the woods. Badgers, woodland birds and all sorts of other flora and fauna live here.
About 2.96 km (~1.84 miles) from 
OS Grid SO568964
Look for climbers trying out the routes on Ippikin's Rock, and keep heading southwest. There is a pub nearby at Hilltop - The Wenlock Edge Inn - if you are ready for that first bottle of port.
About 1.81 km (~1.12 miles) from 
OS Grid SO546927
From Ippikin's Rock, continue along the foot of the escarpment via a disused railway track - closed like many Shropshire branch lines by Dr Beeching. Near Longville in the Dale, the path ascends the escarpment again to the YHA at Wilderhope Manor - owned by the National Trust.
About 4.21 km (~2.62 miles) from 
OS Grid SO520906
Heading on from Wilderhope, the path runs along the top of Wenlock Edge for a distance, offering a brief chance of views out to The Long Mynd. Carry on to Coats Wood and Roman Bank.
About 3.27 km (~2.03 miles) from 
OS Grid SO478876
Soon after Roman Bank, the route leaves the Jack Mytton Way and continues along the the top of the escarpment through a series of coppiced woodlands.
About 5.20 km (~3.23 miles) from 
OS Grid SO444855
There are numerous ways to descend into Craven Arms, but a good option is to leave the bridleway near Moorwood and head into the village of Strefford. Head along the Quinny Brook, but not before looking back and enjoying the scenery of Wenlock Edge once more.
About 3.99 km (~2.48 miles) from 
Craven ArmsOS Grid SO435825
The walk ends in Craven Arms, another exhibit in Shropshire's collection of charming towns. There are good bus and train connections, and plenty of places to stay - well worth stopping over and visiting nearby Stokesay Castle the next (don't worry, you can walk there!)
About 3.16 km (~1.96 miles) from 
