Midlands Marilyn Challenge – Carding Mill Valley, the Long Mynd and Pole Bank 517m/1,696ft

Midlands Marilyn Challenge & UK Iconic Walks– Carding Mill Valley, the Long Mynd and Pole Bank 517m/1,696ft

This was our first time visiting Carding Mill Valley, as we decided to take the route up to Lightspout waterfall on the way up to the Pole Bank summit. One of Shropshire’s most stunning landscapes, Carding Mill Valley is nestled within the Long Mynd, a vast heath and moorland plateau managed by the National Trust.

Located near Church Stretton, this area forms part of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The Long Mynd stretches for over 7 miles and rises to more than 500 metres at it’s summit, Pole Bank and neighbouring Caer Caradoc hill, offering incredible panoramic views across Shropshire and into Wales. It’s a walkers paradise, with the waterfall trails being a real highlight with a bubbling streams, rocks to get your boots into and gorgeous scenery from start to finish.

The open moorlands of the Long Mynd are managed by ‘The Commoners’, farmers who graze their sheep, ponies and cattle, whose grazing patterns are vital for preserving the heathland habitat and supporting native wildlife like skylarks and curlews.

I wasn’t aware of the ponies before heading out for our hike, so to stumble upon them was a real surprise! They’re incredibly tame and pay no mind to hikers, dogs or anyone really! The area is managed by the National Trust, and so the carpark is free for members. There’s also a cafe and toilets, making it a VERY popular spot so expect it to be busy in the main tourist season.

This hike also ticked of a UK Iconic Walks Challenge – bonus!

Camera: DJI Osmo Action 5
Photos copyright Sarlouadventures 2025 shot on a Sony A58

Strava Route

Komoot Route