This document provides an overview of the access points, trails, and amenities available in the Stiperstones region, highlighting key features and facilities for visitors.
The Stiperstones National Nature Reserve (NNR) is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of trails that cater to different skill levels and interests. Here are some key details: The Stiperstones today offers a compelling and varied experience for visitors, with an infrastructure that balances accessibility and safety with the preservation of its wild and dramatic character. The area is primarily accessed by minor roads branching off the A488, which runs parallel to the ridge. For walkers, the main National Nature Reserve (NNR) car park and The Bog Visitor Centre car park serve as popular starting points. The Knolls car park is another option for those embarking on walks in the area. Voluntary car parking charges can be paid conveniently using the RingGo app. For visitors who prefer not to drive, the Shropshire Hills Shuttles provide service on weekends and Bank Holiday Mondays from Easter. The Stiperstones is a paradise for walkers, offering a range of trails suitable for various abilities. The Stiperstones All-ability Trail, a 650-metre path starting from the NNR car park, provides an accessible experience with an all-weather surface, resting places, and a tapping rail for visitors with impaired vision. This trail offers excellent views of the ridge and the Long Mynd. More ambitious walkers can undertake circular routes, such as the 7.0-mile (11.4 km) walk from Snailbeach, or linear paths like the 11.6-mile (18.6 km) walk from Snailbeach to Bishop's Castle. The Stiperstones Stomp, an 8-kilometre route, is a popular option that covers the main sights of the ridge. The reserve is also on the route of the Shropshire Way, a 264 km long-distance trail. It is important for all visitors to be aware that paths can be rocky and steep, and weather conditions can change rapidly.
| Walk Name | Difficulty | Distance | Estimated Time | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stiperstones Stomp | N/A | 8 km (5 miles) | N/A | Takes in the main ridge and surrounding countryside. |
| Snailbeach to Stiperstones & Back | Easy/Moderate | 7.0 miles (11.4 km) | 4h 40m | Circular walk including the main ridge and Stiperstones village. |
| Snailbeach to Bishop's Castle | Moderate | 11.6 miles (18.6 km) | 7h 0m | Linear walk through one of the most striking landscapes in Shropshire. |
| Stiperstones All-ability Trail | Easy | 650 metres (0.4 miles) | 30 minutes | Accessible trail with all-weather surface, resting places, and tapping rail for visually impaired visitors. |
Beyond walking, the Stiperstones is also recognized as an excellent destination for stargazing due to its rural location and minimal light pollution. The Stiperstones Car Park has been designated as a "Go Stargazing Site", offering a safe place to park and an optimal viewing location for astronomical phenomena, particularly during a new moon. This provides a unique recreational opportunity that leverages the area's remote and undeveloped character.
Visitor amenities are well-developed and cater to a range of needs.
The Bog Visitor Centre is a central hub, located in a former Victorian schoolhouse. Staffed by local volunteers, it provides refreshments, homemade cakes, and information on local history and walking routes. The center is wheelchair accessible and has ample parking and toilet facilities.
The Stiperstones Inn is another key amenity, offering food and refreshments, and is noted for being dog-friendly. The Inn's accommodation model has evolved; while it no longer offers traditional Bed & Breakfast, it does provide self-catering holiday cottages, "The Old Chapel" which is located up a small lane behind the inn and "The Hayloft", and is located directly opposite the inn and are which are popular with visitors wishing to stay in the area.
the presence of these community-supported businesses and a publicly funded shuttle service demonstrates a coordinated and comprehensive approach to managing tourism, prioritizing both visitor experience and environmental protection.