The gargantuan forces of ancient glaciation have created a monstrous jumble of jagged quartzite tors and loose scree cast high above the picturesque Shropshire Hills. Hikes to Stiperstones explore this intriguingly rugged landscape, taking you onto a long ridge of atmospheric charm and great character.

As you clamber over the famous tors, surrounded by a sea of purple heather, you would be forgiven for thinking you’d discovered a long lost distant relative of Tryfan. It’s as if some giant has clawed up a section of Snowdonia’s jagged Glyderau and carried it over the English border and smashed it down onto Shropshire’s uplands.

A sublime ridge of famous rocky tors and splendid views

There are many walking routes to Stiperstones. Perhaps the best way to get to know its quirks is to traverse the ridgeline, exploring every nook and cranny of its quartzite tors. They line the crest like ruined, shattered battlements, whilst names like the Devil’s Chair give you an inkling of their deliciously gothic appeal.

The top of Manstone Rock is the true summit and is crowned by a trig point. It makes for a majestic viewpoint of the wider Shropshire Hills, with the long plateau of the Long Mynd looking particularly fine to the east.

Church Stretton is a gloriously picturesque base, known as ‘Little Switzerland’ for its Alpine-esque charm. Here you’ll find gear shops and eateries aplenty, whilst a shuttle bus provides access to Stiperstones, as well as the distinctive Long Mynd.

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Shropshire Hills National Landscape

Save

Location: Ratlinghope, West Midlands Region, England, United Kingdom

Save

See nearby routes

Take Me There

Tips

Dan Hobson

December 10, 2018

Hiking

You can recognise the Stiperstones ridge by the jagged tors at its southern end. Nearly 500 million years ago, the ridge would have risen out above glaciers and the constant freezing and thawing shattered those rocky tors and formed screes. At 1,759 feet (536 m) high, you're rewarded with spectacular views from the summit and along the 5-mile (8 km) ridge.

David Howells

July 29, 2021

Hiking

Proper little mini shark fin ridge this is. The trig point is in a glorious setting sat right on top of a rocky little pinnacle that is nice little scramble. The whole ridge is interesting with its little rocky fins strutting out into the sky. It is also a UK designated Marilyn at 536m high. Lovely summer day out!

JEANETTE

September 10, 2020

Hiking

This is a surprisingly steep ascent. Once you commit to the climb, there's no turning back — it's inwards and upwards to the top. Be careful as you go. You need to be very sure footed to attempt this ascent. Good luck.

Nearby routes

Best routes near Stiperstones Summit

4.6

(54)

217

hikers

#1.

The Stiperstones loop — Shropshire Hills

8.78km

02:45

330m

The Stiperstones loop in the Shropshire Hills offers a rugged hiking experience, defined by dramatic quartzite outcrops and panoramic views. This moderate 5.5-mile (8.8 km) route involves 1071 feet (326 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 2 hours and 44 minutes to complete. You will encounter stony, uneven paths along the ridge, passing iconic tors like Devil's Chair and Manstone Rock, with moorland vibrant with heather and bilberries in warmer months.

To plan your visit, you can start from the Knolls Car Park, which provides a good starting point already at a significant height. The Bog Visitor Centre is also nearby, offering refreshments and information. Be sure to wear good footwear for the rocky underfoot conditions, and be prepared for rapidly changing weather on the exposed ridge. Some sections may involve light scrambling to reach the top of certain rock formations.

This unique quartzite ridge, formed nearly 500 million years ago, is a National Nature Reserve within the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The area is rich in folklore; the Devil's Chair is famously associated with witches and the Devil, while the hills are also linked to the ghost of Saxon warlord Wild Edric. Keep an eye out for red grouse and buzzards as you explore this geologically significant landscape.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Moderate

4.8

(26)

123

hikers

#2.

The Stiperstones Circular

20.1km

05:52

530m

Embark on The Stiperstones Circular, a difficult 12.5-mile (20.1 km) hike that takes you through the wild and atmospheric Stiperstones National Nature Reserve. You will gain 1727 feet (526 metres) in elevation, requiring an estimated 5 hours and 52 minutes to complete. The route features a dramatic ridge of shattered quartzite tors, including the iconic Devil's Chair, offering rugged terrain and expansive views across the Shropshire Hills and into Wales.

Planning your visit requires good preparation; ensure you wear sturdy footwear due to the rocky and uneven conditions underfoot. Parking is available at the trailhead, and you can find essential facilities like refreshments, local information, and toilets at the nearby Bog Visitor Centre. Consider starting early to allow ample time to enjoy the challenging terrain and the unique landscape.

This trail is notable for its distinctive geology and rich wildlife. As you traverse the ridge, keep an eye out for local birdlife such as red grouse and buzzards soaring overhead. The Stiperstones area is a unique natural environment, making this circular route a memorable adventure for experienced hikers seeking a challenging and rewarding day out in the Shropshire Hills.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Hard

4.8

(34)

151

hikers

#3.