Highlight • Waterfall
Lightspout Waterfall
Hiking
4.9
(312)
Running
5.0
(7)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Shropshire Hills National Landscape
Tips
December 11, 2018
Hiking
May 16, 2019
Hiking
June 29, 2020
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Lightspout Waterfall
4.9
(194)
1,001
hikers
9.18km
02:44
280m
280m
Embark on The Burway Loop, a moderate hiking route that winds through the picturesque Shropshire Hills. This trail spans 5.7 miles (9.2 km) and involves a climb of 925 feet (282 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 44 minutes to complete. You will encounter diverse terrain and expansive views, with the highlight being Pole Bank, the highest point of the Long Mynd, where distant mountain ranges are visible on clear days.
To begin your hike, head to Carding Mill Valley, which serves as the common starting point for The Burway Loop. Here, you will find convenient facilities including a tea room, toilets, and parking. If you are a National Trust member, parking is free. Be aware that the higher sections of the trail are exposed and can be very windy, so always check the local weather forecast before you set out.
This rewarding loop takes you through the dramatic slopes and rolling heather of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The journey offers a challenging yet fulfilling way to immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty. From Pole Bank, you can enjoy panoramic vistas that stretch across the landscape, potentially reaching as far as the Brecon Beacons and the Malverns.
4.8
(52)
581
hikers
6.66km
02:06
270m
270m
Embark on the Carding Mill Valley & Lightspout Waterfall loop, a moderate hike in the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This 4.1-mile (6.7 km) route features a sometimes challenging ascent, gaining 881 feet (268 metres) in elevation, and typically takes about 2 hours and 6 minutes to complete. You will follow a stream uphill through a lush valley, navigating narrow footpaths and rocky sections with crude stone steps. The highlight is the 4-meter Lightspout Waterfall, particularly impressive after rain, and from higher points on the Long Mynd, you can enjoy expansive views across Shropshire, Cheshire, and even the Black Mountains.
To begin your hike, head to Carding Mill Valley, which offers convenient visitor amenities. You will find parking, toilets, and a tea-room available, making it a comfortable and well-equipped starting point for your adventure. The trail is not recommended for wheelchairs or individuals with limited mobility due to its narrow paths and inclines, so be prepared for varied terrain.
This trail is a fantastic gateway to exploring the wider Shropshire Hills and the heather-covered Long Mynd. The area boasts a diverse ecosystem, rich in geological interest, rare plants, and abundant wildlife like stonechats and red kites. The Long Mynd itself is a historical upland heath, dotted with archaeological remains from the Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Medieval times, adding a layer of historical depth to your scenic journey.
4.8
(28)
99
hikers
Embark on a difficult 11.4-mile (18.4 km) hike through the Shropshire Hills, a journey that typically takes around 5 hours and 33 minutes to complete. This challenging loop features a significant elevation gain of 2011 feet (613 metres), leading you through varied terrain from easily accessible paths to narrow footpaths and rocky ascents. You will discover the impressive 4-meter Lightspout Waterfall, especially vibrant after rain, and traverse the glorious heather ridge of the Long Mynd, offering expansive views.
Planning your visit, be aware that this route is considered hard and requires very good fitness due to its length and considerable climbing. The trail can be slippery near the waterfall, particularly after wet weather, so wear appropriate footwear. While the research doesn't specify parking or public transport details, Church Stretton serves as a common starting point for walks in the area, including the scenic Carding Mill Valley managed by the National Trust.
This loop is notable for combining several iconic features of the Shropshire Hills into one demanding yet rewarding adventure. You will reach Pole Bank Summit, the highest point on the Long Mynd ridge, which provides spectacular views, especially west into Wales on a clear day. The area is also home to diverse wildlife, including stonechats and red kites, adding to the natural appeal of this challenging route.
Details
Informations
Elevation 390 m
Weather
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Thursday 7 May
16°C
6°C
60 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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