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
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
Secret Hills Walking Holidays
Secret Hills Walking organise guided walking holidays in Shropshire.
01694 723600
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
Accommodation in Church Stretton
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
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
Eaton Manor Country Estate
The ideal location for that special celebration or relaxing holiday, for over 60 guests. A selection of superior 4*gold and 5*gold properties, large private gardens, swimming pool (April to October), private chef, beauty therapist, photographer all available. Dogs welcome, except at Great Western.
£410.00 - £4550.00
01694 724814
Wisteria Cottages
Two beautiful cottages (each sleeps 2) nestled into the heart of the glorious Shropshire countryside, 6 miles from the medieval county town of Shrewsbury and 7 miles from Church Stretton.
£295.00 - £415.00
01743 719046
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
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
Mynd House
Built at the turn of the 20th century, Mynd House is an award winning B&B. It has eight well-appointed guest rooms - one suite, four doubles, two twin rooms and a single room, seven of them offer sought-after hill views (the remaining room overlooks the garden).
£55.00 - £110.00
01694 722212
The Holt
The Holt, on Burway Road in Church Stretton, is a refurbished large self catering holiday house, sleeping 7 people in the bedrooms, plus room for cots and a double sofa bed in the living room.
£725.00 - £815.00
01584 831363
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
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
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
