Church Stretton, Shropshire
Church Stretton - The first town in Shropshire to be 'Walkers Are Welcome'
As a health resort the Victorians called Church Stretton "little Switzerland" (and as we point out without the wolves and avalanches). The Alpine like hills are dotted with chocolate box houses clinging to the hillside. Church Stretton still retains a feel of a gentile spa town and still has natural springs providing the source of Stretton Hills bottled water.
Above the town rises the Long Mynd and the main route to explore the local countryside, you will also find a number of "batches" or hollows – which many of the local villages adopt as part of their name. Church Stretton is the first town in Shropshire to receive Walkers Are Welcome status as they have something special to offer for walkers more than simply being a fantastic place to come and enjoy the great outdoors. The town also holds its own annual Walking Festival in June.
The National Trust looks after Carding Mill Valley and much more besides. Apart from being a pretty walk, there is a tea pavilion for anyone in need of refreshments. At weekends and Bank Holidays the National Trust run a shuttle bus from the railway station to the valley and up to the top of the Long Mynd. The sensible folk take it up and walk back - it's easier that way.
A thriving antiques centre with over 60 stalls is open every day and nearby Acton Scott Historic Farm will give you a taste of farming at the turn of the 19th Century well before mechanisation.
St Laurence's Church is handsome - look for the sheila-na-gig, a pagan fertility symbol. Probably Saxon - definitely rude!
Church Stretton & South Shropshire Arts Festival takes place each year. The festivities result in the South Shropshire Hills literally becoming alive with the sound of music!
For further information on Church Stretton visit the Church Stretton Website or contact the Visitor Information Centre
If you would like to visit Church Stretton and need accommodation and are interested in finding the best hotels, guest houses, bed and breakfasts or self catering, please click here.
For more information about the rest of Shropshire, please click the link to Visit Shropshire.com
Please click here to view a map of Church Stretton town centre.
Attractions in Church Stretton
Acton Scott Historic Working Farm
Acton Scott Historic Working Farm near Church Stretton demonstrates life on a Shropshire upland farm at the turn of the 19th century. The farm has featured on BBC TV's 'Victorian Farm', ‘Countryfile’ and many other film and TV shows.
01694 781307
Secret Hills Walking Holidays
Secret Hills Walking organise guided walking holidays in Shropshire.
01694 723600
Midland Gliding Club Ltd
Members of the Midland Gliding Club first flew from the Long Mynd in 1934. It is not only one of the longest established gliding clubs in the UK but also one of Britain's prime gliding sites.
01588 650206
Accommodation in Church Stretton
Orchard Cottage
Idyllically located in a lovely hamlet in the heart of South Shropshire’s glorious, rolling countryside, Orchard Cottage is the perfect holiday retreat.
£295.00 - £495.00
01588 673340
North Hill Farm
North Hill Farm is set on a hilltop overlooking one of the most lovely valleys in Shropshire. Comfortable rooms at comfortable prices.
£75.00 - £90.00
01694 771532
Berries Coach House
Your perfect weekend or holiday retreat in Church Stretton in the heart of the Shropshire hills. The Coach House is a self catering, fully detached first floor luxury apartment sleeping 2+2. It is ideally situated for singles, couples, or a family of 4 in comfort.
£225.00 - £350.00
07563 156216
Shropshire Hills Country Cottages
Well appointed cottages in beautiful location. Easy access to Church Stretton, Ludlow, Shrewsbury and Ironbridge. Walk the tranquil hills direct from your door.
£300.00 - £500.00
01694 722869
All Stretton Bunkhouse
A well equipped bunkhouse with immediate access to the Long Mynd. This is an ideal location for easy or challenging walking and cycling.
01694 722593
Ferndale
Located in the heart of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Ferndale offers high quality accommodation for up to 5 guests. Ideally situated on the edge of the picturesque market town of Church Stretton Ferndale provides every comfort and convenience for those who wish to explore this beautiful corner of Shropshire.
£350.00 - £600.00
01694 722791
Caradoc Cottage
This country cottage offers comfortable, quality accommodation adjoining owners family home, nesting between Stretton Hills. Exposed beams, inglenook with woodburner. Fully equipped, immaculately kept. Own relaxing garden.
£310.00 - £470.00
01694 751488
The Pottery
The Pottery is located on the slopes of the Long Mynd and has a wonderful view. It's peaceful position provides an ideal base for walking, cycling or car-based sightseeing. There are many walks that may be taken direct from the front door.
£250.00 - £325.00
01694 722121
Mynd Court
Built in 1905 to house the parish vicar and later used as a retirement home, Helen, Ian and family have spent the last 18 months converting and renovating Mynd Court, and have added a large, one bedroom, self contained, comfortable, modern holiday home let.
£320.00 - £520.00
07747 443892
Key Events in Church Stretton
Church Stretton Walking Festival
June
Four days of guided walks in and around Church Stretton, from serious 12 mile walks to more gentle half days. Booking essential - please see the website.
The Long Mynd Hike
October
The Longmynd Hike is a 50 mile competition hike open to anyone aged 18 or over, which takes place over the first weekend of October every year (entry's now closed).
Church Stretton Arts Festival
July/August
A celebration of music and visual arts. Classical concerts, celebrity lectures, drama, jazz, showcase of local youth talent and arts and crafts exhibition.
Church Stretton Visitor Information
Visitor Information Centre
Church Street, Church Stretton, SY6 6DQ
Tel: 01694 723133 Email: churchstretton.scf@shropshire.gov.uk
More Church Stretton information on - www.churchstretton.co.uk
For more information about Shropshire, including Accommodation, Attractions and Activities, visit Shropshire Tourism
