Four Walks for Autumn Colour
What could be better than wrapping up and getting out for a walk in autumn with all those vibrant reds, golds, and oranges around you? Here in south Shropshire, we’re spoilt for choice as far as great autumn walks go. From ancient woodlands to scenic hills, here are four stunning walks to experience the best of autumn’s splendour during your stay here at The School House B&B.
1. From Bromfield to Ludlow Through Oakly Park
Distance: 2.5 miles each way if you do the full walk into Ludlow and back, or you can catch the bus back.
Highlight: A peaceful walk, through picturesque rolling countryside and rich history, with ancient oak trees and scenic tracks.
Oakly Park is a hidden gem on the outskirts of Ludlow, just 25 minutes’ drive from The School House B&B. The park is home to much of the livestock that's reared for the local produce that you can buy at the nearby Ludlow Farmshop.
The park entrance is near Bromfield Church where there is parking on the verge opposite the church. Head away from the church, over the River Teme and follow the road straight ahead. After a while you’ll pass Priors Halton Farm and then bear left towards Ludlow, emerging at Dinham Bridge.
Visit Ludlow Castle & St. Laurence's Church
Cross the bridge, then head up the hill to historic Ludlow Castle, St Laurence’s Church and the market square. Buses back to Bromfield run from the market square or the Compasses Inn on Corve Street if you prefer not to walk back.
2. Bury Ditches Hill Fort
Distance: 2.3 miles, approx. 1 hour (or 6 miles if you walk up from Clun).
Highlight: Historical hill fort with panoramic views framed by autumn hues.
This is one of our favourite walks for any time of year – not least because we usually end up at The Crown Inn at Clunton – but in autumn it’s particularly special. If walking up from Clun, park at Clun Memorial Hall. Or park in the Bury Ditches car park, accessed via Clunton.
For the shorter walk, head away from Bury Ditches car park on a wide track for about a mile. When you reach a clearly-defined track junction, take a sharp left heading uphill. As you climb uphill, the trees form a stunning natural canopy of amber and red.
Enjoy Spectacular Views at Bury Ditches Hillfort
At the next track junction by a bench, turn right and circle round to a gate that leads onto the hillfort itself. Here you are surrounded by 365-degree views of the Shropshire Hills and beyond. With a spectacular display of autumnal colours, it’s a photographer’s paradise. Head straight through the hillfort to the opposite end and take the path downhill and back to the car park.
3. Croft Castle & Parkland
Distance: Various routes from 1.5 miles to 5.5 miles.
Highlight: Beautiful National Trust parkland, with the tree-lined Fishpool Valley a highlight for autumn colour.
A short distance across the Herefordshire border, Croft Castle parklands and woods are great for a walk through its 1,500 acres. There are five waymarked routes, from a short (1.5 miles) stroll along the Fishpool Valley to a jaunt up to Croft Ambrey Hillfort (3 miles), or a longer trek around Pokehouse Wood (5.5 miles).
The Beautiful Fishpool Valley
Our favourite is the Fishpool Valley walk. The Valley was landscaped during the late 18th century in the naturalistic ‘Picturesque’ style. This pleasant walk takes in the chain of dams and pools, carefully planted trees and architecture such as the icehouse, grotto, pumphouse and limekiln.
All the walking trails are within the parkland at Croft Castle, so you'll need to pay the admission fee or present your National Trust membership card to access them.
4. Brineddin Wood, Chapel Lawn
Distance: 2.25 miles, approx. 1 hour.
Highlight: A walk from the door of The School House, taking in the beauty of Brineddin Wood and some great views of the Redlake Valley.
On a steep south-facing slope in the Redlake Valley, Brineddin Wood covers an area of about forty acres, predominantly of sessile oak. This route is in our ‘Walks from the Door’ leaflet.
Start by turning right out of The School House (or the car park) and follow the lane for about half a mile before taking the right turn signposted to Clun, over the river Redlake. Turn right at the first house you come to and take the public footpath towards Rock Cottage. Go through the gate on the right and the footpath leads you along the bottom of the wood.
Brineddin Wood Wildlife
Keep an eye out for deer and a variety of bird species that make Brineddin Wood their home. It’s worth reading the information board near the steps, where you can learn all about the wood and the definition of a quillet.
As you emerge from Brineddin Wood at the far end, the route takes you through a field from where you can take in the stunning views along the Redlake Valley and across to Caer Caradoc hill, before descending back into Chapel Lawn.
Tips for Walking in Autumn
Bring layers: Autumn weather can be unpredictable, so wear layers that you can easily adjust.
Sturdy footwear: The ground can be wet and slippery, especially on hill paths, so good walking boots are a must.
Stay hydrated and bring snacks: Although it’s cooler, you’ll still need energy for these beautiful, yet sometimes challenging, walks.
Capture the moment: Autumn is a photographer’s dream, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture the stunning colours.
Whether you’re after sweeping views, peaceful woodlands, or a touch of history, the Shropshire Hills in autumn have it all. From The School House B&B, these four walks offer the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn.
