Acton Burnell Walk

5 miles (8 km)

This 5 mile circular walk explores the area around the village of Acton Burnell in Shropshire. The route takes you past Acton Burnell Castle before following quiet country lanes around the perimeter of the old Acton Burnell Park.
The highlight of the walk is Acton Burnell Castle, the impressive red sandstone shell of a fortified manor house built between 1284 and 1293 for Robert Burnell, Bishop of Bath and Wells and Lord Chancellor to Edward I.... Although known as a castle, it was designed primarily as a prestigious residence rather than a military stronghold. The site is also notable for its place in parliamentary history, with assemblies held here in 1283 and 1285 during the reign of Edward I.
The surrounding countryside is characterised by gently rolling farmland, mature hedgerows and small patches of woodland typical of rural south Shropshire. The route skirts the historic parkland of Acton Burnell Hall, where avenues of trees, pretty lakes and open fields hint at the former estate landscape. Nearby stands the medieval Church of St Mary, also rebuilt by Robert Burnell and closely associated with the castle and village.
With its combination of peaceful country lanes, attractive parkland scenery and one of Shropshire's most significant medieval sites, this is a rewarding walk for anyone interested in the county's history and rural landscapes.
You can continue your walking in the area by heading west to visit Caer Caradoc, the Long Mynd and The Lawley.