Walking across the Ironbridge
Stage: 8 Wilderhope to Ironbridge
September 2024
After a wet spell, conditions on the downward slope to Ironbridge can become very muddy and slippery. An alternative route has been identified which diverges at SJ653029, passes Benthall Hall and descends to Ironbridge safely along a minor road.
Benthall Hall is National Trust https://www.nationaltrust.
Please see map below for details
A mile from Wilderhope the Shropshire Way joins the Jack Mytton Bridleway on Wenlock Edge. This is the site of an old quarry tramway along which the route continues for nearly 6 miles. To add variety you may wish to divert by heading to Pilgrim Cottage from Wilderhope and taking the footpath through Mogg Forest to Easthope village. (See download for more detail)
In late spring wild orchids are to be found on Wenlock Edge as you reach the quarry areas.
Much Wenlock is an interesting small town where the modern Olympic Games were started by William Penny Brookes. You will be walking through more history as you descend the slopes of the Severn Gorge into Ironbridge.
You are strongly advised to take an OS map and/or a GPS to walk the route. Please note the digital OS maps will show the new Main Route from January 2019.
