ARRESTING SHROPSHIRE

Even a visit to a Georgian prison can't stop Victor Charles feeling a great sense of freedom in the Shropshire Hills

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It felt positively other-worldly as we wandered across the moorland plateau of the Long Mynd. Below us, the valley was blanketed in fog, but on the high ground, we were bathed in afternoon sun.

As we took in the undulating landscape, almost on cue, a string of wild horses came into view – the perfect foreground for the setting sun. What a great introduction to the beautiful county of Shropshire!

We loved visiting this wonderful region lying on the border of North Wales, with rolling hills, beautiful landscapes, and plenty of culture and history.

Carding Mill Valley

We visited last year and stayed at Brook Farm Campsite in Leebotwood, near Church Stretton. It's our favourite site because it's quiet, out in the sticks, away from the crowds, with good facilities.

On arrival, we set up quickly and then went for a walk around Church Stretton and through Carding Mill Valley.

Church Stretton is a delightful market town, with a large antiques centre, small independent shops and plenty of charm. On the edge of town, you'll find Carding Mill Valley, a natural beauty spot protected by the National Trust that is popular with walkers. Here you can see pretty streams running through the Shropshire Hills, and sheep - lots of sheep! There's also a coffee shop if you need some refreshments.

We walked from the Carding Mill Valley car park to see the Lightspout Waterfall, following a rocky path beside a stream as fog descended on the valley.

Then we went along a steep path up to the Long Mynd, a heath and moorland plateau known for stunning views. It was a strenuous climb, but when we got there the moors were bathed in bright sunshine and we were looking down on thick clouds. The scenery was amazing.

We walked across the Long Mynd, taking in the views and meeting horses roaming wild. We followed them for a while along another path, then diverted back into the valley before the sunset.