Shrewsbury walks

Want to see the best of medieval Shrewsbury? This seven-kilometre route takes you on a whistle-stop tour of the town's most beautiful and historical sights. You'll stroll over stone bridges, spot esteemed old churches and explore the sculptured grounds of the Quarry – a 29-acre, 18th-century park. And, of course, you'll also visit Shrewsbury's famous red sandstone castle, whose storied history started in the 11th century.

Unlike some Shrewsbury walks, this one doesn't require a car. In fact, you can start the trail from our town centre hotel – just head northwest up Butcher Row and join the route from Pride Hill.

Here's a 1.3-kilometre route that most should find relatively easy and accessible – though it may prove challenging for unassisted wheelchair users. There are two variations to choose from: the Corbett Trail, which is relatively flat, and the Bardon Trail, which has one steep incline.

In either case, you'll be exploring Haughmond Hill – an expansive woodland around three miles east of town. Expect panoramic views of the Shrewsbury skyline, as well as plenty of spots where you can sit, rest and enjoy some peace and quiet.

One of the many perks of Shrewsbury is that the countryside is never far away. And not just any countryside – the Shropshire Hills National Landscape. This lush, wildlife-rich terrain is almost alien in its undulating beauty.

This walk sees you conquering one of its proudest peaks: the Stiperstones. It's a fair trudge – but you'll be rewarded with some of Shropshire's most spirit-stirring views. You'll also visit the Devil's Chair – a rocky outcrop with a famously spooky history – before descending down the eastern side of the hill.

For dedicated hikers, this is easily among the best Shrewsbury walks – and when you stay with us, it's ready and waiting on your doorstep.

One for serious ramblers. Divided into 15 lengthy stages, this 202-mile route starts in Shrewsbury and trails through some of Shropshire's most bucolic beauty spots. It's famous – and famously challenging.

You'll find Carding Mill Valley next to the charming market town of Church Stretton. This heather-strewn beauty spot forms the starting point of many walking routes, including a 10-mile trek up the Long Mynd.

This idyllic nature reserve is just south of Shrewsbury – and a short drive from the town centre. It's well worth a wander, not least because it affords some of the best views of the Shropshire Hills, including the iconic Wrekin.

The small village of Grinshill is sheltered by the mighty knoll that shares its name. Take a one-mile trudge to the lookout spot and you'll enjoy exceptional views of the Shropshire Hills, as well as Breidden Hill in Wales.

Moreton Corbet Castle is an English Heritage site and a ruined treasure of 13th- and 17th-century architecture. After you've explored the castle grounds, why not take a short walk to the pretty village of Stanton upon Hine Heath?

You can reach this National Trust property in as little as 20 minutes by car. Once there, you'll have 200 acres of parkland to explore, as well as a walled kitchen garden, a natural play area and an impressive Regency mansion.

Hawkstone Park is a feast of natural and manmade beauty. This craggy landscape features cliffside trails, networks of caves and a fascinating collection of 18th-century follies, including a Grade II-listed turreted tower.

Walking around Hodnet Hall Gardens is like watching a grand opera unfold – with shrubs and flowers as the players. Every turn brings a new spectacle, from the unruly Water Garden to the militaresque rows of the vegetable patch.