Caer Caradoc

Jutting up from the Stretton Gap valley, Caer Caradoc is a magnificent adventure with wide-ranging views across the Shropshire Hills and beyond. Sat opposite the Long Mynd plateau and overlooking the gorgeous market town of Church Stretton, you can make this grassy hill a short walk or a full day’s hike. 

Hiking trails to Caer Caradoc take you over grassy, tussocky ground and provide glorious views the entire way. Due to its rather abrupt appearance, every trail is steep, although you can enjoy a slightly more gradual ascent from the east. 

No matter which path you take, stopping by Three Fingers Rock is worth any detour. This remnant of long-past volcanic activity now provides a brilliant outcrop and photo opportunity for passing hikers. As you continue onwards to the summit, you’ll discover a well-defined hill fort which, unusually, uses natural rocks as part of its defences. As you stand at the top, it’s easy to see why our ancestors decided this was an excellent spot for a fort. 

Glorious views in every direction

At 1,506 feet (459 m), the views from Caer Caradoc are fantastic, with the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty peeling out before you. To the north east, spy the Wrekin, Telford’s similarly eye-catching hill on the same fault line. On clear days, the Brecon Beacons are visible, as are the Malverns and north east Wales. 

Between the undulating hills, patchwork farmland unravels and sheep munch peacefully. You can climb this marvellous hill throughout the year, although strong winds and icy temperatures might keep you warming your hands in a Church Stretton cafe.