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Shrewsbury & Ludlow

Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of the Marches.

  • England

  • 4 nights
  • Half Board
  • City Breaks

    Culture

  • Jun

    Aug

  • Average group size: 12-14

Leisurely

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Walking grade

Grade 3

Classed as leisurely; walks are generally a little longer than level 2, with undulations but over a longer distance. Where sightseeing distances are longer, we take a full day with opportunities to stop, rest and refuel. Generally, itineraries involve easy countryside walking with plenty of breaks,   

Usual daily walks - Distance: 4 miles; Ascent/Descent 300m; Terrain: generally good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Half Day or Full Day walks. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

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Meticulously curated, guided walking holiday itineraries that delve into the culture, wildlife, cuisine, and rich history of the world.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Shrewsbury's literary history.
  • Ludlow's Broad Street. 'The best street in England?'
  • Enjoy views to Scotland and the Isle of Man.
  • Tick off the best of the 700m peaks.

The Marches are loosely defined as the border areas between mid-Wales and England. They offer outstanding scenery, lively market towns and history stretching back to the Norman conquests and beyond.

You will stay in Shrewsbury, situated on loop in the River Severn which nearly surrounds the town. Your Blue Badge guide will take you through the narrow streets and have historic and literary associations to be brought to life on a morning tour. Later, you walk out into the fertile countryside of the Severn Valley.

Next, there is time to explore Ludlow, foodie paradise, a train ride to the south, which drops you close to the centre of town. Your Blue Badge guided tour will take in the lovely old shopping streets. Two highlights are the castle, semi restored and full of fascinating detail and St Laurence Church.

For the next walking day, again, you will take the train south to Church Stretton to walk to Ragleth Hill to the south of the town. 


  • En suite four-star hotel accommodation on a half board basis
  • Entrance to Ludlow Castle
  • All local transport required for the itinerary by train
  • Services of a Discover Tour Leader
  • Entrance fees (unless otherwise specified)
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions
  • Travel Insurance

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

77604

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival day

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

Shrewsbury is well connected by train from various parts of the UK. Your hotel is about 15 minutes walk from the train station. Check in is from 16.00 onwards. Your tour leader will meet the group at 18.30 for an introductory chat and run through the plan for the holiday. Dinner is in the hotel restaurant each evening. 

Day 2

Shrewsbury and the Severn Valley

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

After breakfast, your day starts with your Blue Badge guide meeting you in the hotel lobby. You will then set out on a walking tour around Shrewsbury taking in the highlights and the guided tour will last around two hours, starting from the front door of the hotel. Look out for the connections with Charles Darwin, Charles Dickens and Wilfred Owen amongst others. 

This afternoon take a riverside walk which covers, among other things, the place where Wilfred Owen grew up and the countryside he wrote about in his poetry. 

  • Time

    2.5 hours

  • Distance

    5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    25m

Day 3

Ludlow and surrounds

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

Today you will take the train south to Ludlow. For those with an interest in such things Shrewsbury train station is an impressive building and warrants a quick look before departure. The train to Ludlow takes about 30 minutes. On arrival your Blue Badge guide will take you around all there is to see. Highlights include the castle and St Laurence Church. 

This afternoon you will walk in the Teme Valley away from the town.

  • Time

    2.5 hours

  • Distance

    4.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    150m

Day 4

Church Stretton and Carding Mill Valley

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

This is a walking day as you head south by train getting off at Church Stretton. From here, walk west (through the Rectory Wood) to the Long Mynd and enjoy some of the features of this area. You will visit the well-known Carding Mill Valley and take in views of the surrounding Shropshire Hills (an area of outstanding natural beauty). Next you will cross into Cwmdale before heading back into Church Stretton where you can enjoy a cup of tea or a browse in the local shops.

  • Time

    4 hours

  • Distance

    5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    300m

Day 5

Departure day

After a leisurely breakfast in the hotel we can say goodbye to our fellow walkers and return home.

We hope you have enjoyed your holiday and look forward to welcoming you on another soon.  

Departure dates for your selected tour

16th Jun 2025 - 20th Jun 2025 (4 Nights)

18th Aug 2025 - 22nd Aug 2025 (4 Nights)

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

Prince Rupert Hotel

In the heart of historical Shrewsbury, the three star Prince Rupert Hotel offers period features, traditional charm and is wildly considered to be the best hotel in the area. The former home of Prince Rupert, the grandson of King James I, the timber-framed hotel features a health club and two restaurants. The Royalist Restaurant serves creative dishes using seasonal produce and is decorated with original tapestries and suits of armour. The more casual Chambers Brasserie features an open fire and oak panelling and serves a traditional British menu. 

The pleasant bedrooms have en suite bathrooms and tea & coffee making facilities. Rooms also feature a TV, hairdryer and free toiletries. Wi-Fi is accessible throughout, and room service is also available. Many rooms have period features, including exposed beams and sloping ceilings. 

The Prince Rupert Hotel is centrally located in the town centre, surrounded by a maze of cobbled streets and historical buildings. The medieval Shrewsbury Castle is just five minutes’ walk, and The Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery is less than 500 metres away.

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

Classed as leisurely; walks are generally a little longer than level 2, with undulations but over a longer distance. Where sightseeing distances are longer, we take a full day with opportunities to stop, rest and refuel. Generally, itineraries involve easy countryside walking with plenty of breaks,   

Usual daily walks - Distance: 4 miles; Ascent/Descent 300m; Terrain: generally good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Half Day or Full Day walks. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

Walks & Excursions

Local Transport Costs

In the holiday cost, we have included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.

Optional Excursions

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

When budgeting for your holiday, you will need to consider drinks, non-included entrance fees, optional excursions you may choose to participate in locally and any souvenirs or additional services such as laundry. 

Tipping

In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.

Tour Leaders & Local Guides

Tour Leaders

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Leader's Evening Briefing

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

Your Travel Details

From M6: Exit at junction 10A onto the M54 towards Shrewsbury. Follow the M54 until it joins the A5. Follow the A5, then A458 following the signs for the town centre. Cross English Bridge and bear left along Beeches Lane which flows into Town Walls. Drive past St. Chads Church (on your right) and down Claremont Bank. Keep in the middle lane at the traffic lights and bear right onto the A458. With the river on your left keep in the right hand lane until the traffic lights (with the Castle in view ahead). Turn right onto the A5191 and travel up the hill. Drive past M&S on your right. Follow the road round to the left into St. Mary's Street with St. Mary's Church on your left. Immediately after the church take a sharp right into Church Street (Note access is granted to the hotel) and then the next sharp right into St. Alkmund's Place. The Prince Rupert is a short distance on the right. Once checked in at Reception directions will be provided to our car park. (Please note that the Fish Street entrance to the hotel (off the High Street) is currently closed.

The hotel car park is located a 3-minute walk away from the hotel on Belmont Bank. The hotel kindly asks that guests drive direct to the hotel via Church Street or Fish Street and drop off any luggage to be stored. One of the reception team will then give you directions to the Belmont Bank car park.

Should you wish to use the Belmont Bank car park there is an overnight car parking charge of £10 per vehicle per night and is valid until 11.30am on the morning of your departure. Should you wish to extend beyond this time pay machines are available within the car park.  Upon check-in, please ensure you register your vehicle on the parking eye machine. Failure to do so will result in parking fines which the hotel is unable to revert. Alternatively, there are other car parks available in the town centre.



Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Meals

Breakfasts and dinners are included in the holiday cost and will be taken at the hotel. Lunches are not included. Dinner will be three courses with starter, main and dessert. The hotel enjoys an excellent reputation in the town and prides itself on offering guests hearty food served by welcoming staff in comfortable surroundings. 

On occasions if the hotel is not full they may close the restaurant on Monday nights. If this happens we will walk out to a local restaurant in the town and enjoy a meal of equal quality.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Good quality waterproof walking shoes or trail shoes with a thick, moulded sole with a good tread and a low heel are likely to be all that is required for these holidays. If you are a frequent walker and are comfortable in good quality hiking sandals, these may be adequate for some walks. You can wear lightweight walking boots if you prefer.

Holiday Specific Kit

In addition, we recommend that you bring a flask with you on your walks each day. Due to the time of year, it is sensible to bring a hot drink out with you to help keep warm. 

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Holiday booking confirmation document
  • Travel insurance details (if applicable)
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Water To Go

Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.

Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.

As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.                        

Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

The Map Shop

If you cannot find the maps or books locally, we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

Weather

Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for United Kingdom

No compulsory immunisations are required for holidays in the UK although you should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended for life in Britain. Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.


Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

Responsible Travel

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.

Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Heart and Sole

We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.

Staying In Touch

Mobile Phones

Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.

Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.

In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or try to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.

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