The best walks and hikes around the the River Severn

Yes, there are many options suitable for families. The Ironbridge Gorge loop — Shropshire Hills is an excellent choice, offering an easy walk through a historic landscape. For a place with facilities, the Severn Valley Country Park is a popular favorite, featuring well-maintained paths, a cafe, and toilets.

The region offers numerous circular routes that bring you back to your starting point. For a walk that combines history and nature, the Powis Castle & the Montgomery Canal loop from Welshpool is a great moderate option. It offers views of the castle and follows the peaceful canal towpath.

Absolutely. Many trails pass through or near historic towns with welcoming pubs. A great option is the Wyle Cop & River Severn loop from Central Shrewsbury, which takes you through the heart of Shrewsbury, where you'll find plenty of historic pubs for a post-hike refreshment.

The Severn Way covers a wide variety of terrain over its 224-mile (360 km) length. It begins in the rugged, open moorlands of the Cambrian Mountains in Wales. As it follows the river, the path transitions to gentle riverside meadows, woodland tracks, and paved sections through towns like Shrewsbury, Worcester, and Gloucester, before reaching the flat, expansive estuary.

Yes, for experienced hikers looking for a full-day challenge, the Severn Valley & Dudmaston Estate loop from Bridgnorth is a demanding but rewarding option. This 17.4-mile (28 km) route explores the wider valley and estate woodlands.

The walk to the source of the River Severn is a popular hike starting from the Hafren Forest car park. A well-marked trail leads you through the forest and up onto the Plynlimon massif in the Cambrian Mountains. The round trip is approximately 7.5 miles (12 km) and offers breathtaking views from the open moorland where the river begins.

Hikers have several highly-regarded areas to explore:

• Severn Valley Country Park: A local favorite known for its accessible riverside paths, woodlands, and great views down the valley.
• Malvern Hills National Landscape: Offers rewarding climbs with panoramic views that are well worth the effort.
• Wye Valley National Landscape: A vast area with rolling hills and woodlands perfect for walking and enjoying the scenery.
• Stiperstones National Nature Reserve: Praised for its dramatic rocky outcrops and stunning, wide-open vistas.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the variety of landscapes, from the dramatic Ironbridge Gorge to the peaceful riverside paths. The well-marked trails and the blend of natural beauty with local history are frequently mentioned as highlights.

There are over 690 hiking routes to discover around the River Severn on komoot. These range from short, easy strolls perfect for an afternoon to challenging long-distance treks, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level.

Most trails along the River Severn are dog-friendly, but it's important to be mindful of the environment. You will likely cross fields with livestock, especially in rural areas, where dogs must be kept on a lead. Always check for local signage, particularly in nature reserves or on private estates like Attingham Park, which may have specific rules.

Yes, the lower sections of the Severn Way provide excellent walks along the Severn Estuary. The Three Choirs Way & Severn Way loop from Gloucester is a long route that follows a section of the river as it widens towards the estuary, offering expansive views of this unique tidal environment.

Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful seasonal colors in the woodlands and valleys. Summer is also popular, though some riverside paths can be busy. Winter hiking is possible on lower, well-surfaced trails, but be prepared for muddy conditions, and always check the weather for the higher elevations near the source.