Shropshire Star

The National Trust's best wintery walks to enjoy in Shropshire and nearby

The National Trust has provided residents with a list of some of the best walking trails in Shropshire and surrounding areas this winter.

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Residents are being encouraged to wrap up warm and venture into the countryside for invigorating cold-weather walks and to soak up the beauty of crisp landscapes, cool air, and glowing sunsets. 

From meandering along frosty paths in historic gardens to jumping over puddles in parklands, or blowing away the cobwebs exploring hills and valleys - there is a lot on offer in the local vicinity. 

The National Trust also said that winter is the best time to notice nature and wildlife during a walk, and Shropshire residents have been told to look for pawprints in mud and snow, listen for crisp notes of bird song and spot woodland residents foraging in the silhouettes of bare trees.  

And, after venturing out, walkers can warm up and enjoy a hot drink, hearty soup or a well-earned sweet treat at many of the National Trust's cafés.

Below is the National Trust's list of some of the best places for a winter walk nearby.

Shropshire

Beautiful Shropshire has some of the most gorgeous landscapes in the country, and finest walks and trails. 

Attingham Park

Upon entering Attingham’s gates in Shrewsbury, views open across the 200-year old parkland to the Shropshire hills and the impressive Regency mansion emerges, against silhouettes of cedar trees.

Historic trees cluster in woodland glades and the River Tern meanders through the parkland attracting an abundance of wildlife including herons, swans and geese. 

There are a number of walks including the popular Mile Walk that is suitable for pushchairs and mobility trampers, that are available to hire.

Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd

With amazing views to be seen on a variety of way-marked walks, the beautiful scenery at the Long Mynd is perfect for a bracing winter walk. 

The Chalet Pavilion offers also the perfect pitstop for a warming drink and tasty treat.

Comer Woods, Dudmaston Estate

Trails crisscross Comer Woods, including the Explorer Trail - a multi-use circular trail that begins and ends at the car park. 

It is designed for everyone, including walkers, runners, cyclists and adapted wheelchair users. 

Walkers can challenge their family to build the best woodland shelter along the way way or follow the tree stump stepping stone path as they head out for more adventures.

Staffordshire

Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses

Walkers can blow away the cobwebs with a bracing walk on Kinver Edge, and cimb to the top of the hillfort and take in a late winter sunrise or early sunset. 

On crisp, clear days, walkers can enjoy panoramic views across three counties, Staffordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire.

Shugborough Estate

A stroll around the pleasure grounds is great for admiring the views across the whole estate. 

For frosty trees, the purple sheen of silver birch and wild deer walking through the mist, enjoy a climb up to the Triumphal Arch and onto Satnall Hills. 

With the dieback of undergrowth, it’s easier to spot some of the mammals that normally use it for cover.

West Midlands

Wightwick Manor and Gardens

Winter is the perfect time to see the structure of the garden - the evergreen geometrical yew hedging appears bolder and the architectural lines of the terraces and balustrades are clearer. 

Walkers can pick up a warm drink from the tearoom and take a brisk walk across frosty lawns, past frozen pools and through crisp woodland.

Moseley Old Hall

Wrap up warm and enjoy a gentle stroll through the garden and woodland at Moseley Old Hall. The Knot Garden looks particularly lovely after a dash of frost or a sprinkling of snow.

For further information on walks visit Walking | Midlands | National Trust. Residents have been asked to check individual property opening times prior to visiting.