The 7 Most Amazing Peaks around Great Dawley
Best mountain peaks around Great Dawley are located in the surrounding Shropshire region, a former mining area. While Great Dawley itself does not contain traditional mountain peaks, the vicinity features prominent hills like The Wrekin and The Ercall, which are significant local landmarks. These areas offer opportunities for walking and exploring natural and historical features. The region provides diverse landscapes, from challenging climbs to tranquil woodlands.
Best mountain peaks around Great Dawley
- The most popular mountain peaks is The Wrekin…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
The Wrekin summit
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The Wrekin Hillfort
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Wellington Rotary Toposcope on the Wrekin
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Needle's Eye, The Wrekin
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The Ercall Bluebell Woods
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Rising to 407 metres, The Wrekin is a prominent landmark, its visibility from the M54 signalling the entrance to Shropshire. Unlike some of the local hills, The Wrekin was never a volcano in its own right, despite its conical shape, but is composed of various igneous rocks and volcanic processes. The ridgeline either side of The Wrekin makes for some great running, with fabulous views in every direction.
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When I was at University in Brum in my first year I stayed with a lovely couple in Ward End. They used the local expression "all round the Wrekin". It was used to describe someone explaining something in a convoluted or complex way. Since then, I have had a fascination with the place and wanted to visit. Anyway, that was in the early 1970s - I finally got there in 2021 - better late than never!
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On top of Wrekin showing distances to surrounding places, touch to tick you have been here.
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To commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee in 1977, the Wellington Rotary Club commissioned a Toposcope to be positioned near the Wrekin’s summit. The result was a large steel disc that is positioned onto a stone cairn. Inscribed onto the Toposcope through 360 degrees are 41 locations with their distance from the Wrekin. The original intention was that all of the locations should visible from the Wrekin’s summit. However, this isn’t the case. One of the locations – Mount Snowdon – cannot be seen as the bulk of Cadair Berwyn is in the way. It also doesn’t explain why the particular 41 locations were chosen, but the reason might be down to the Ordnance Survey and its Trigonometrical Stations. Of the locations, 39 are or were the site of an OS trig station. Only Buildwas (Ironbridge) Power Station and Trench Pool do not fall into this criterion. However, it is easy to argue that both have enough local interest and significance for them to been included on the Toposcope. By 2005, the original Toposcope had seen better days. It is not only open to the elements but it is also an easy perch for someone looking for a rest after the climb to the summit or to pose for a photograph. The 30 years of battering and buffing had eroded and worn away the inscriptions. Therefore, a replacement Toposcope was made, which now sits on the same cairn as the original.
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From top nice view on Telford, Shrewsbury and Shropshire Hills
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main prominent hills or 'peaks' to explore near Great Dawley?
While Great Dawley itself doesn't have traditional mountain peaks, the surrounding Shropshire region features significant hills that are popular for outdoor activities. The most notable are The Wrekin, a dominant landmark with historical significance and panoramic views, and The Ercall, known for its rich woodlands and diverse plant life.
What historical features can I discover on The Wrekin?
The Wrekin is home to an impressive Iron Age hillfort, which was once occupied by the Cornovii tribe. Visitors can explore the remains of this ancient settlement at The Wrekin Hillfort, offering a glimpse into the region's past. There's also the Wellington Rotary Toposcope on the Wrekin, a modern monument marking distances to surrounding places.
Are there any unique natural formations on The Wrekin?
Yes, near the summit of The Wrekin, you can find the 'Needle's Eye,' a distinctive gap in a large rocky outcrop. Local legend suggests that to be considered a true 'Salopian' (someone from Shropshire), one must pass through it. You can find this feature at Needle's Eye, The Wrekin.
What is the best time of year to visit The Ercall for its natural beauty?
The Ercall is particularly beautiful in spring, when its woodlands are adorned with exceptional bluebell displays. This makes The Ercall Bluebell Woods an excellent location for nature walks during this season, offering vibrant colours and rich biodiversity.
What kind of views can I expect from the summit of The Wrekin?
From The Wrekin summit, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Shropshire countryside on a clear day. It's a well-known landmark that dominates the landscape, providing extensive vistas that are highly appreciated by visitors.
Are there family-friendly walking options around Great Dawley's hills?
Yes, both The Wrekin and The Ercall offer well-marked trails suitable for families. The main path up The Wrekin from the Forest Glen car park is well-surfaced and easy to follow, though it has some steep sections. The Ercall's woodlands provide gentler rambling opportunities, especially enjoyable for nature observation.
How long does it typically take to hike to the summit of The Wrekin?
The main path to The Wrekin summit from the Forest Glen car park is just over a mile each way. The ascent can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace, with the start of the trail being the steepest section.
Where can I park when visiting The Wrekin?
There is a large car park available at the start of the main route up The Wrekin from the Forest Glen. Be aware that parking on the smaller lanes on the south side of The Wrekin is extremely limited.
What outdoor activities are available near Great Dawley's prominent hills?
Beyond hiking, the area around Great Dawley offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, road cycling, and gravel biking. For example, you can explore MTB Trails around Great Dawley, Road Cycling Routes around Great Dawley, or Gravel biking around Great Dawley.
Are there less crowded alternatives to the main Wrekin path?
Yes, while the main path up The Wrekin is popular, there are quieter public footpaths and permissive paths that lead around the hill and offer alternative routes. You can also approach The Wrekin from other directions, such as from Wellington through The Ercall woods, or from Little Wenlock or Ironbridge, which can offer a different experience.
What do visitors enjoy most about exploring the hills near Great Dawley?
Visitors frequently highlight the spectacular views from The Wrekin summit, the rich history of The Wrekin Hillfort, and the beautiful natural environment, especially the bluebell displays in The Ercall Bluebell Woods. The combination of challenging climbs and tranquil nature walks makes the area appealing to many.
Are dogs allowed on the trails around The Wrekin and The Ercall?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the public footpaths and trails around The Wrekin and The Ercall. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially in areas with livestock or during nesting seasons, and to clean up after them.
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