Church Stretton in Shropshire is a charming market town nicknamed 'Little Switzerland' by the Victorians, and it is easy to see why. Nestled in the Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd, this picturesque destination offers magnificent walks, quirky independent shops, and cozy cafes, making it perfect for a Bank Holiday or weekend day trip.
Stunning Walks and Scenery
Standing on top of the Long Mynd after completing the Carding Mill Valley waterfall walk provides a breathtaking 360-degree view of wild ponies, heathland, birds of prey, and big skies. This cinematic landscape truly lives up to its nickname. The walk is a must-do for nature lovers and hikers.
Exploring the Town
After a morning of walking, Church Stretton welcomes visitors with its independent shops and welcoming atmosphere. The town is easy to reach by train, with the station located right in the center. Visitors can enjoy browsing charity shops, including one where clothes are color-coordinated on white wooden hangers, and unique stores like The Outdoor Depot for walking gear and Rainbow's End for unusual gifts.
Food and Drink
The Buck's Head pub offers a beer garden with views of St Laurence Church and pretty hanging baskets, perfect for a relaxing drink. For a sweet treat, Mr Bun the Bakers serves proper scones, tiffin, and traditional school cake topped with sprinkles. The King's Arms is a historic black and white pub offering real ales, while The Little Cafe on the High Street provides budget-friendly meals. Housmans Restaurant features tapas plates for a fiver.
Shopping and Attractions
Indie bookshop Burway Books, Stretton Antiques Market, and Kaboodle, which smells of incense, are great for browsing. The town also has clothing boutiques, a toy store, and a chocolate shop on Sandford Avenue. The Door Knocker Company is a unique hardware store not to be missed.
Nearby Attractions
From Church Stretton, visitors can explore Shrewsbury's Wyle Cop, known for the longest stretch of uninterrupted independent shops in the UK. Britain's oldest licensed brewery, the Three Tuns in Bishop's Castle, offers samples, and Stokesay Castle in Craven Arms, where the film Atonement was shot, is also nearby.
Getting There
Church Stretton is approximately an hour and 20 minutes from Birmingham via the M54. Alternatively, trains from Birmingham New Street to Church Stretton take around an hour and 40 minutes, with a change at Shrewsbury.
