A 14 mile walk from Ironbridge and through Coalbrookdale to the iconic landmark of The Wrekin.

Walking north from Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage site and Coalbrookdale we will rise steadily uphill through woodland and open fields towards the iconic landmark of The Wrekin. Ironbridge Gorge was designated as a World Heritage Site in 1986 in recognition of the area’s unique contribution to the birth of the Industrial Revolution. The town was named after the first Iron Bridge built by Abraham Darby III in 1779.

The Shropshire Way takes us up and over the very top of one of the Midlands’ most famous natural landmarks at a height of 1,335 feet. If you prefer, there are established low-level and midway paths which offer less strenuous alternative routes around The Wrekin. The main route I use is steeper in places but affords access to wonderful panoramic views from the top. Just below the summit is the famous rock formations of the Needle’s Eye and Raven’s Bowl (aka the Cuckoo’s Cup) – but tread carefully and try not to disturb the sleeping giants when we visit them!

The Wrekin has almost certainly been occupied for over 3,000 years. After passing through the inner and outer entrances of the Cornovii Hill Fort known as Heaven’s Gate and Hell’s Gate, the path descends through woodland passing the Wrekin Cottage (or Halfway House as it is generally called these days) on the way to the northern entrance at Forest Glen.

Having followed the woodland paths upward from Coalbrookdale we will emerge into open countryside and approach the village of Little Wenlock. This is the second highest village in Shropshire at 720 feet above sea level and the Benchwalks provide opportunities to sit and savour the wonderful surroundings of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

  • Meeting Point: We will meet on the bridge itself TF8 7JP (there are numerous car parks nearby). If you prefer to start and finish at the Wrekin then we will meet at The Wrekin Glen Forest Car Park (junction with Ercall Lane) TF6 5AL

  • Meeting Time: 08:00

  • Distance: 14 miles

  • Duration: 7 - 8 hours (including lunch stop)

  • Difficulty: Moderate

  • Price: (Contact me to discuss)