Little Stretton - Ashes Hollow - Pole Bank - Callow - Back

Richard Hardy

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The summit of the Long Mynd can be reached by a number of different routes; this one, in my opinion, is one of the best. Starting from Little Stretton, the route takes you along Ashes Hollow, which will not be as busy as the tourist trap that is Carding Mill Valley, rising through the enclosing hills to gain the ridge near the Boiling Well. It's then a short trip to the summit and descent is by a high-level path, with a visit to the summit of Callow for its great views, out over Church Stretton and the surrounding countryside.

Although this is a popular tourist area, this remains an upland area and walkers should take appropriate clothing for the UK weather and be confident to navigate in low visibility if necessary.

England - Central England - Shropshire - Shropshire Hills

Features

Ancient Monument, Birds, Church, Great Views, Hills or Fells, Moor, National Trust, Pub, Public Transport, Wildlife

10/23/2021 - Honor Davison

At point 3 we could see no Waymark but going to the right at this point is definitely the best idea as the left hand path is virtually non existent, there are no stones to cross the stream and there is a steep bank on the other side. Why would you not use the good steps on the right??

9/12/2021 - Steve Moore

A great alternative route up to the Polebank summit missing all the crowds. Fantastic views, especially around Callow. Easy to follow. Really enjoyed this walk.

10/27/2020 - Kevin Hilton

We did this walk on a bright October day and it is superb. The ascent via lovely Ashes Hollow is very atmospheric, while the descent offers outstanding views all the way. The detour up Callow at point 13 is well worth the effort for the best view of all. One small update is the 'ramshackle, corrugated iron shed' at point 8 is long gone, but the path in question is easy to find.

1/18/2015 - Steven Fisher

What a super walk to do on the most perfect January day. A bit icy in places, but the views made it all worthwhile. Definitely a must when the roads up to the Long Mynd are virtually impassable, so quiet and peaceful.

8/31/2014 - David Yarwood

Completed this walk on a cool but fairly sunny day in August. Directions are excellent and the climb up through Ashes Hollow was much more enjoyable than ascending the crowded Carding Mill valley. Great views from Pole Bank where there is a splendid toposcope.

9/21/2013 - Richard Hardy