GPS Cycle and Walking Routes

Clun Castle Walk

8 miles (13.5 km)

This circular walk takes you through the countryside to the west of the small Shropshire town of Clun. On the way you'll visit the historic Clun Castle and the hamlet of Whitcott Keysett. There's also fine views of the Shropshire countryside and the Welsh Hills to enjoy. The walk makes use of two of the waymarked long distance trails that run through the area. You'll follow sections of the Shropshire Way ánd Offa's Dyke Path on the 9 mile route which includes some moderate hill climbs.
The walk starts from the free car park at Clun Castle on the western side of Clun. The Norman castle includes a tall 13th century keep set on the side of its mound. You can explore the atmospheric ruins and enjoy fine views from the high points on the site. It's run by English Heritage and entry is free.
After exploring the castle the route heads south over the River Clun on Clun Bridge before turning west to follow a country lane towards Llwyn and Burfield. At Springhill Cottage you pick up the Offa's Dyke Path and follow it north to Bryndinog where you cross the river again. Here you pick up a country lane and follow it east to the pretty little hamlet of Whitcott Keysett, picking up the Shropshire Way and following it back into the town.

Postcode

SY7 8JT - Please note: Postcode may be approximate for some rural locations

Please click here for more information

Clun Castle OS Map - Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking

Clun Castle Open Street Map - Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking

Pubs/Cafes

Head to The White Horse Inn for some refreshments after your walk. The 16th century inn has a lovely garden area where you can relax and enjoy a meal on a sunny day. You can find the inn on The Square at a postcode of SY7 8JA for your sat navs. The Sun Inn on the High Street is another good option, dating all the way back to the 15th century. It has a real old world feel and also has a nice garden area.

Dog Walking

The hilly countryside surrounding the town is great for fit dogs. The White Horse Inn pub mentioned above is also dog friendly.

Further Information and Other Local Ideas

Head east from the town and you visit Craven Arms and Stokesay Castle. The fine medieval house dates from the 13th century and is also run by English Heritage.
To continue your walking around the town you could pick up the Bishop's Castle Ring. The walk encircles the historic market town of Bishop's Castle passing through Clun on the way. It also visits the wonderful Stiperstones which are one of the highlights of the area. The epic Jack Mytton Way is another good option for exploring the Shropshire Hills from the town.
To the south west you can explore the beautiful River Teme valley around Knighton. The border town also includes a noteworthy 14th century coaching inn.
To the south east there's the village of Hopton Castle where you can visit the ruins of the mediaeval castle which was besieged in a battle of the English Civil War during 1644. There's also the lovely Wood 'n' Ribbon cafe in this area. The eclectic site has a lovely outdoor area with animals including goats, hens and ponies. They also provide accommodation in the shape of quality glamping pods too.

Photos

Clun Castle - geograph.org.uk - 1149498

Clun Castle ruins

Clun Castle - geograph.org.uk - 740457

Clun Castle. Inside the ruins of the Great Tower, which was almost certainly built as living accommodation rather than for any serious defensive purpose. The walkway allows the public access.

View from Clun Castle - geograph.org.uk - 1542200

View from Clun Castle Clun bowling green

Clun Castle Grounds - geograph.org.uk - 740442

Castle Grounds This seat is provided at Clun Castle with a view overlooking the town

Clun village, bridge over the River Clun - geograph.org.uk - 1308418

Bridge over the River Clun

The centre of the village - geograph.org.uk - 1595500

The centre of the village, near to Whitcott Keysett. This small village is centred around this unnamed stream that flows south towards the River Clun.

The Square, Clun - geograph.org.uk - 740583

The Square, Clun. At the heart of this small town; at one time markets were held here in the square on Tuesdays.

River Clun, Clun - geograph.org.uk - 740291

Clun's river, a tributary of the River Teme, seen here from the footbridge connecting the car park on Newcastle Road to Clun Castle.

Video

GPS Files

GPX File

Clun Castle.gpx (On Desktop:Right Click>'Save As. On Ipad/Iphone:Click and hold>Share>Save to Files')

Memory Map Route

Clun Castle.mmo (On Desktop:Right Click>'Save As. On Ipad/Iphone:Click and hold >Share>Save to Files)