The best waterfall hikes and walks in the West Midlands Region

Embark on The Burway Loop, a moderate hiking route that winds through the picturesque Shropshire Hills. This trail spans 5.7 miles (9.2 km) and involves a climb of 925 feet (282 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 44 minutes to complete. You will encounter diverse terrain and expansive views, with the highlight being Pole Bank, the highest point of the Long Mynd, where distant mountain ranges are visible on clear days.

To begin your hike, head to Carding Mill Valley, which serves as the common starting point for The Burway Loop. Here, you will find convenient facilities including a tea room, toilets, and parking. If you are a National Trust member, parking is free. Be aware that the higher sections of the trail are exposed and can be very windy, so always check the local weather forecast before you set out.

This rewarding loop takes you through the dramatic slopes and rolling heather of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The journey offers a challenging yet fulfilling way to immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty. From Pole Bank, you can enjoy panoramic vistas that stretch across the landscape, potentially reaching as far as the Brecon Beacons and the Malverns.

Embark on the Carding Mill Valley & Lightspout Waterfall loop, a moderate hike in the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This 4.1-mile (6.7 km) route features a sometimes challenging ascent, gaining 881 feet (268 metres) in elevation, and typically takes about 2 hours and 6 minutes to complete. You will follow a stream uphill through a lush valley, navigating narrow footpaths and rocky sections with crude stone steps. The highlight is the 4-meter Lightspout Waterfall, particularly impressive after rain, and from higher points on the Long Mynd, you can enjoy expansive views across Shropshire, Cheshire, and even the Black Mountains.

To begin your hike, head to Carding Mill Valley, which offers convenient visitor amenities. You will find parking, toilets, and a tea-room available, making it a comfortable and well-equipped starting point for your adventure. The trail is not recommended for wheelchairs or individuals with limited mobility due to its narrow paths and inclines, so be prepared for varied terrain.

This trail is a fantastic gateway to exploring the wider Shropshire Hills and the heather-covered Long Mynd. The area boasts a diverse ecosystem, rich in geological interest, rare plants, and abundant wildlife like stonechats and red kites. The Long Mynd itself is a historical upland heath, dotted with archaeological remains from the Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Medieval times, adding a layer of historical depth to your scenic journey.

Embark on a difficult 11.4-mile (18.4 km) hike through the Shropshire Hills, a journey that typically takes around 5 hours and 33 minutes to complete. This challenging loop features a significant elevation gain of 2011 feet (613 metres), leading you through varied terrain from easily accessible paths to narrow footpaths and rocky ascents. You will discover the impressive 4-meter Lightspout Waterfall, especially vibrant after rain, and traverse the glorious heather ridge of the Long Mynd, offering expansive views.

Planning your visit, be aware that this route is considered hard and requires very good fitness due to its length and considerable climbing. The trail can be slippery near the waterfall, particularly after wet weather, so wear appropriate footwear. While the research doesn't specify parking or public transport details, Church Stretton serves as a common starting point for walks in the area, including the scenic Carding Mill Valley managed by the National Trust.

This loop is notable for combining several iconic features of the Shropshire Hills into one demanding yet rewarding adventure. You will reach Pole Bank Summit, the highest point on the Long Mynd ridge, which provides spectacular views, especially west into Wales on a clear day. The area is also home to diverse wildlife, including stonechats and red kites, adding to the natural appeal of this challenging route.

This easy hike to Lightspout Hollow waterfall from Carding Mill Valley is a picturesque journey through varied terrain in the Shropshire Hills. The 1.9-mile (3.1 km) route, with an elevation gain of 480 feet (146 metres), takes about 1 hour and 1 minute to complete. You will follow footpaths, navigating a fun, rocky ascent through Lightspout Hollow, which features crude pitched stone steps and rocky paths that can be slippery near the 4-meter cascade. Along the way, enjoy views of the Long Mynd, heather-covered landscapes, and a stream, keeping an eye out for wildlife like stonechats and red kites. Every turn offers beautiful scenery with small falls and babbling brooks.

Starting in Carding Mill Valley, this trail is generally considered easy and suitable for most skill levels. The area is managed by the National Trust, providing well-maintained paths and convenient facilities. You will find a visitor center, a cafe, and a car park at the trailhead, making it an accessible starting point for your adventure. While the direct path to the waterfall is easy, some sections of the ascent can be challenging due to the rocky nature of the trail.

The Lightspout Waterfall is the highlight, a 4-meter cascade that is especially impressive after heavy rainfall. Located within the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the trail showcases diverse geological features and a rich ecosystem. The National Trust's management ensures the preservation of this beautiful landscape. For those seeking a longer challenge, you can extend your hike to higher points like Pole Bank, the highest point on the Long Mynd, for panoramic views of the surrounding area.