Without leaders, none of this would exist – they are so generous in the giving of their time to check out routes, as well as seeing to all the behind the scenes admin that goes with running this programme. Some leaders are also involved with other projects to benefit walkers and we are very pleased to offer links to these below. (Please click on the green headings.)
Ironbridge Gorge Walking Festival Offers over 60 walks ranging from 3 to 21 miles and takes place 4th May to 12th May 2024. For more details and to book please click on the link above.
Rail Rambles Cymru
For those who wish to participate in longer walks than those featured in our programme, Rail Rambles Cymru offer a choice of walks from 12 miles upwards.
Wellington Walkers Are Welcome run a Walking Festival every September. The programme features a joint walk with ourselves, along with a number of other imaginative rambles – to a local vineyard and to an eco trail and garden at a local manufacturing company (with pizza!). Also included in their programme is a film, with a walking theme, at the Orbit Cinema in Wellington. As you can see from the link, during the year they offer regular walks as well as being very active in keeping paths clear and promoting walks around the area.
The Shropshire Way is along distance path of 200 miles. It comprises two loops centring on Shrewsbury, covering the South Shropshire Hills and the North Meres, Mosses and canals. Fifteen stages link the major towns and transport hubs so that public transport can be used to complete the route. Rail Rambles often include parts of this scenic trail in our walk programme and we are pleased to also offer a walk as part of of their week long festival which takes place in September.
The Heart of Wales Line Trail – this line has long been popular with walkers. Not only does the service provide access to great walking country but also the opportunity to walk linear routes between rail stations.
Lancashire Rail Ramblers
Before Alan Howard moved to Shrewsbury he was involved with Lancashire Rail Ramblers and we have to thank them for giving us the model on which to base our programme. So please check out their walks, as they too are focussed around train travel and leaving the car at home.
Telford T50 50 Mile Trail was created to celebrate the new town’s 50th anniversary in 2018. This new trail goes through the major open spaces in Telford. It links together parks, woods, pools, nature reserves and open countryside with the World Heritage Site of the Severn Gorge, birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, and the many new and historic towns and villages that make up Telford.
Other links which we hope may inspire you or offer you alternative walks are:-
Shropshire Ramblers
Powys Ramblers
Ramblers North Wales
Conwy Valley Railway
Railwalks – Also please take a look at this new initiative, which is bringing together information on walks centred on railway stations from all over the country. It is a mine of information which is being added to all the time.