Bluebell Walks in Shropshire: Woodland Escapes & Spring Days Out Near Ludlow

Bluebell Walks in Shropshire: Woodland Escapes & Spring Days Out Near Ludlow

May is one of the loveliest times of year to visit Shropshire. The countryside feels like its coming back to life and the longer days invite you to spend more time outdoors. For me, one of the true highlights of late spring is the arrival of the bluebells. Almost overnight, quiet woodlands are transformed, creating some of the most beautiful and natural seasonal displays of the year.

Shropshire is blessed with a number of beautiful woodland walks where bluebells can be enjoyed each May, many of them within easy reach of Ludlow and St Milburga Chapel. Whether you are looking for a gentle stroll beneath the trees or a longer day out combining woodland paths with views across the hills, there are plenty of places to explore.

With that in mind, here are some of our favourite spots for bluebell walks in Shropshire this spring.

You don’t have to go far at all from St Milburga Chapel for one of the best spots for bluebells. Mortimer Forest near Ludlow is only a 20 min drive away from Stoke St Milborough. One of the best spots is to park in the Black Pool car park and take the Climbing Jack trail towards Climbing Jack Common and on to High Vinnalls. Or park in Vinnalls car park and do the walk in reverse! Whichever way around you do the route, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of a sea of bluebells across the open common with the Shropshire Hills in the background. Parking is free in all the Mortimer Forest car parks. Trails are well-marked, decent underfoot and there are a number of “easy access” trails suitable for all.

Another option is to park in Ludlow itself and walk to Mortimer Forest from there. It takes about an hour to walk to either the Black Pool or Vinnells car park, making a decent length for a circular walk, with the added bonus of the cafes in Ludlow for cake and a refreshing drink afterwards.

Further information on Mortimer Forest can be found here: https://www.forestryengland.uk/mortimer-forest

Sallow Coppice, Craven Arms

If a gentle, shortish walk appeals to you, the Sallow Coppice Circular Walk is well worth doing. Starting at The Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre in Craven Arms, a 25 mins drive from St Milburga Chapel, this is a 3.8 circular walk through woodland and across fields. There are no hills or difficult terrain making this walk suitable for a wide range of abilities. Once you reach Sallow Coppice, known as Sally Coppy to the locals, you’ll be treated to an amazing sight as millions of bluebells flower throughout May. There are plenty of other spring flowers as well as oak and ash trees. The route also goes past nearby Stokesay Castle, giving you an opportunity to extend your day and visit this historic English Heritage run site as well. Stokesay Castle is well worth visiting being one of the best preserved castles around – it has a roof and an upstairs floor!!! And it only takes a couple of hours at most to explore. There is a tearoom at Stokesay Castle as well as a café in The Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre.

For further information and a map visit: https://www.shropshiresgreatoutdoors.co.uk/route/shropshire-way-circular-walk-5-sallow-coppice/

Comer Woods and Dudmaston Hall, near Bridgnorth, Shropshire

Our final suggestion is Comer Woods on the Dudmaston Estate, near Bridgnorth about a 30 min drive from St Milburga Chapel. Comer Woods is an area of over 400 acres of woodland, farmland and countryside open to the public, with parking and a network of circular trails suitable for all abilities. It is known for it’s spectacular displays of bluebells throughout May. Parking is free for National Trust members or £6 per day for non-members. There is a coffee shop for takeaway drinks and snacks with outdoor seating. Dudmaston Hall and gardens is a short drive away and has a tearoom as well.

For more information about Comer Woods including a trail map, visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/shropshire-staffordshire/dudmaston-estate-comer-woods

Whether you’re planning a day out or a longer stay, bluebell season is a lovely time to slow down and explore the beautiful Shropshire countryside. For those looking to enjoy a spring break in Shropshire, St Milburga Chapel provides a peaceful base near Ludlow, perfectly placed for discovering some of the best bluebell walks in Shropshire.

Practical Information

Best time to visit: Bluebells are usually at their best from late April to mid-May, depending on the weather.

Closest bluebell walk: Mortimer Forest is around 20 minutes from St Milburga Chapel.

Great for: Couples, walkers, photographers and anyone wanting a peaceful spring day out.

Practicalities: Paths can still be muddy in spring, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Popular spots are often quieter earlier in the day.

Where to stay: St Milburga Chapel is ideally placed for exploring woodland walks near Ludlow and across south Shropshire.

When is the best time to see bluebells in Shropshire?

Bluebells are usually at their best from late April to mid-May, although warm or cold weather can bring the season slightly earlier or later.

Where are the best bluebell walks near Ludlow?

Mortimer Forest is one of the closest and most popular options near Ludlow, with further displays at Sallow Coppice near Craven Arms and Comer Woods on the Dudmaston Estate.

Are bluebell walks suitable for casual walkers?

Yes. Many routes have a range of trail options, from gentle woodland strolls to longer circular walks.

Can I pick bluebells or walk through them?

No. Bluebells are a protected wildflower, so it’s best to admire them from marked paths and avoid damaging the plants.

Is May a good time to stay in Shropshire?

Yes. May is one of the loveliest months to visit, with longer days, better weather (fingers crossed) and beautiful seasonal displays such as bluebells.