Shropshire Hills AONB

About Shropshire Hills AONB

The Shropshire Hills AONB covers a total area of 802 km2 (310 mi2) of the county of Shropshire in England from near Telford to the south of the county where it borders on Wales. The Hills are comparatively high with the highest elevation point being Brown Clee Hill which stands at 540 m (1,772 ft) and several others not far off this. With mountains, wide open spaces and hidden river valleys, the area has much to offer.

Fauna and Flora

Regionally important upland and farmland birds include the curlew, dipper, snipe and lapwing. Red kites are beginning to expand into the area from Wales. The woodlands are a particular stronghold for dormice, which is a protected species in Europe. There are also many butterfly species, including the Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary.

Activities

With 5,632 km (3,500 mi) of rights of way throughout Shropshire, there are plenty of walking routes available in the AONB itself to discover the area at close quarters. Routes vary from short and level to lengthy and energetic. There is a range of cycle routes for most levels of experience and fitness from easier rides around the foot of the Hills to top quality mountain biking trails. There are also dedicated bridleways and routes for horse-riding throughout the moorland, wooded valleys and country lanes.

The River Severn passes through and is suitable for canoeing and you can fish in a number of places on a ticketed basis.

The Long Mynd valley is a popular location for gliding and paragliding; and geocaching is increasingly popular, with several trails in the AONB (GPS devices are available for hire from Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre).