Spring Walks & Seasonal Food: A Perfect March Escape Near Ludlow

Spring Walks & Seasonal Food: A Perfect March Escape Near Ludlow

March is a wonderful time of year and a perfect season to visit Shropshire. What makes March special for me is the abundance of spring flowers that seem to appear almost overnight. The first snowdrops carpet woodland floors in white, bright daffodils wave their cheerful heads along country lanes, and crocuses begin to appear in every shade of purple.

It’s also a quieter time of year for a holiday before the Easter break begins, making it ideal if you’re looking for a countryside escape without the crowds.

When the sun makes an appearance, there is a real warmth in the air, and the longer days and lighter evenings make it hard to resist heading outside. Early spring is the perfect time to stretch your legs on a gentle walk or a more vigorous hike, and we are truly spoilt for choice when it comes to spring walks in Shropshire.

There are plenty of places within easy driving distance of St Milburga Chapel where you can enjoy woodland walks and early displays of spring flowers. Attingham Park and Winsley Hall, both about an hour away near Shrewsbury, are well known for their impressive snowdrop displays and peaceful woodland paths.

If you are looking for somewhere closer, it’s hard to beat the many trails through Mortimer Forest near Ludlow, where you can choose anything from a short stroll to a longer walk through the trees.

For those who enjoy clearer air and a slightly more challenging route, the Stiperstones — around an hour’s drive from St Milburga Chapel — is well worth the effort. After a steady climb up onto the ridge, you are rewarded with panoramic views across the Shropshire Hills and surrounding countryside. The area is famous for its dramatic rock formations, which create striking silhouettes against the skyline and make wonderful photo opportunities.

If you’re looking for more inspiration for local walks, you can also read about our favourite winter walk on the Long Mynd.

Not every walk needs to be a hike, though. A gentle riverside stroll followed by coffee or lunch can be just as enjoyable. One of our favourites is to park in Ludlow and walk down to the River Teme along the “Bread Walk”, a peaceful riverside path that runs through the Whitcliffe Common Nature Reserve.

Depending on which direction you take, you can stop at CSONS café for excellent coffee and cake, or head to the Charlton Arms Hotel for a relaxed lunch or a drink overlooking the river.

After fresh air and a good walk, Ludlow is the perfect place to spend a relaxed afternoon. The town is well known for its food culture, with independent bakeries, delis and food shops lining the historic streets.

The market is always worth a visit, and it’s easy to pick up seasonal ingredients to take back and cook later.

Many guests enjoy the simple rhythm of a spring day spent walking in the countryside, browsing Ludlow’s food shops in the afternoon and then returning to the chapel to cook a relaxed supper together.

At St Milburga Chapel, evenings can be just as enjoyable as the days — cooking with local produce, enjoying views across the surrounding countryside and unwinding beside the fire.

March offers a lovely window before the Easter rush begins. If you’re looking for a quieter countryside escape with beautiful walks and excellent food, it may be the perfect time to plan a spring stay in Shropshire.

Best time to visit:
March and early April, when spring flowers begin to appear and walking routes are quieter.

Great for:
Couples, walkers and anyone looking for a peaceful countryside escape.

Nearby towns:
Ludlow (10 minutes)
Church Stretton (around 35 minutes)
Shrewsbury (about 1 hour)

Stay nearby:
St Milburga Chapel — a beautifully restored Grade II listed self-catering retreat near Ludlow, ideal for relaxing after a day exploring the Shropshire countryside.

• Walk through Mortimer Forest for woodland trails and early spring flowers.
• Visit Attingham Park to see one of Shropshire’s most impressive snowdrop displays.
• Enjoy the easy riverside Bread Walk and stop afterwards for coffee and cake at CSONS.
• Enjoy panoramic views from the Stiperstones ridge.
• Spend an afternoon exploring Ludlow’s independent food shops and market.

Where are the best spring walks near Ludlow?
Mortimer Forest, the Stiperstones, the Long Mynd and riverside walks along the River Teme are all beautiful places to enjoy spring flowers and countryside views near Ludlow.

When is the best time to see spring flowers in Shropshire?
Snowdrops appear from late January through February, while daffodils and early woodland flowers are usually at their best during March.

Is March a good time to visit Shropshire?
Yes. March is a wonderful time to visit before the Easter holidays, with longer days, early spring flowers and excellent walking conditions.