The Stiperstones
The Stiperstones is a spectacular 10km ridge of stone only 7 miles from Moonrise Lodges and a must-see during your stay.
Much of the Stiperstones is a National Nature Reserve providing an outstanding combination of geological landscape and wildlife features, wild dramatic scenery, a fund of myth, folklore and literary connections, and a mining and farming history.
From mid July till mid September the Whinberries will be out in force, and my children love to forage whilst walking and climbing along the ridge. As you can see from the photo below, excessive Whinberry eating will lead to purple tongues and fingers!
The Stiperstones at a Glance
If you’re planning a visit to The Stiperstones National Nature Reserve, here’s everything you need to know before setting off.
- Location: Shropshire Hills National Landscape
- Distance from Moonrise Lodges: Around 15 minutes (7 miles)
- Walk Length: Approximately 10km for the full ridge walk
- Difficulty: Moderate with some steep rocky sections
- Parking: Knolls Car Park
- Postcode: SY5 0NL
- Suitable for: Families, walkers, photographers and dog owners
- Best time to visit: Spring for wildflowers, summer for whinberries, autumn for colourful heathland and winter for dramatic views.
Why Visit The Stiperstones?
The Stiperstones is one of the most iconic walks in Shropshire thanks to its dramatic quartzite ridge, panoramic views and fascinating folklore.
Unlike many countryside walks, The Stiperstones combines striking rock formations with rich wildlife, centuries of mining history and legends of the Devil’s Chair. Whether you’re visiting for a gentle stroll or tackling the entire ridge, it’s an unforgettable day out.
Visitors regularly come to enjoy:
- Spectacular views across the Shropshire Hills
- The famous Devil’s Chair rock formation
- Rare wildlife and birdlife
- Whinberry picking in summer
- Peaceful walking trails
- Incredible sunrise and sunset photography
To reach the Stiperstones, use the postcode SY5 ONL.
If you’re doing it the old-fashioned way using a map, head through the village of Priest Weston and make your way up to the A488 and turn left. A short distance along this road, look out for the brown signs for the Stiperstones. Keep going until you reach the Knoll carpark on your left.
Parking at The Stiperstones
To reach The Stiperstones, use the postcode SY5 0NL, which will take you to Knolls Car Park, the main starting point for most walks on the ridge.
If you’re doing it the old-fashioned way using a map, head through the village of Priest Weston and make your way to the A488 before turning left. A short distance along the road, look out for the brown signs for The Stiperstones and continue until you reach Knolls Car Park on your left.
From Knolls Car Park, you’ll find several well-signposted walking routes, including an accessible trail suitable for wheelchairs and buggies, as well as longer routes that take you across the famous Stiperstones ridge.
Parking is free, but facilities are limited, so we recommend bringing water, sturdy walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, especially if you’re planning the full ridge walk.
How Long Does It Take to Walk The Stiperstones?
The time you’ll spend walking depends on the route you choose.
| Route | Approx Time |
|---|---|
| Accessible trail | 30–45 mins |
| Short circular walk | 1–2 hours |
| Full Stiperstones Ridge | 3–4 hours |
Many of our guests choose the shorter circular route before stopping for lunch at The Bridges pub.
Is The Stiperstones Suitable for Families?
Absolutely. Although parts of the ridge are rocky, there are several easier walking routes suitable for families with children.
Our own children love exploring the rocks, spotting wildlife and picking whinberries during late summer.
If you’re visiting with younger children or a buggy, the accessible trail from Knolls Car Park is a great alternative.
The postcode will take you directly to the Knoll carpark at the foot of the ridge. From here, there are many signposted walks, including an all access trail that is suitable for wheelchairs and buggies.
We like to stop for lunch at The Bridges pub at Rattlinghope (SY5 OST), two minutes in the car from the car park. On a good day, it’s lovely to sit by the river and enjoy your lunch.
If you’re after cake, instead call in at the Bog Centre (SY5 ONG) on your way back to the lodges for a cup of tea and some great homemade treats.
FAQs
What is the postcode for The Stiperstones?
The most commonly used postcode is SY5 0NL, which takes you to Knolls Car Park.
Where do you park for The Stiperstones?
Knolls Car Park is the main parking area and provides access to several walking routes.
How difficult is The Stiperstones walk?
The full ridge is moderately challenging because of uneven rocky terrain, but there are shorter walks suitable for most visitors.
Can dogs walk The Stiperstones?
Yes, dogs are welcome but should be kept under control, particularly during livestock grazing seasons.
When is the best time to visit The Stiperstones?
The walk is beautiful all year, but many visitors enjoy late summer when the whinberries are ripe and the heathland is at its most colourful.
