Shropshire is a county that rewards time on foot. It sits between regions that often grab more attention, yet once you start walking here it quickly becomes clear how much variety is packed into its borders. Open moorland, wooded escarpments, gentle river loops and broad farmland all sit within easy reach of one another, stitched together by a dense network of paths.
This guide brings together a spread of dog friendly walks across Shropshire, chosen to reflect that variety rather than focusing on one landscape type. These are routes that suit different moods and energy levels, with enough practical detail to help you plan properly and enough character to keep you coming back.
The Long Mynd
The Long Mynd is one of those landscapes that quietly resets your sense of scale. Sitting high above Church Stretton, the plateau rolls out in broad sweeps rather than sharp peaks, with long grassy valleys cutting deep into the hills. Walking here feels expansive and unhurried, with the sense that you are moving through the land rather than simply over it.
The experience changes noticeably with the seasons. In summer the paths are firm and the views stretch endlessly, while winter brings a raw, exposed feel that demands a bit more respect. Dogs generally cope well with the terrain, but grazing livestock and ground nesting birds mean good awareness and occasional use of a lead are part of walking responsibly here.
- Distance: 6–10 miles depending on route
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Terrain: Moorland tracks, grass, some stony sections
- Dog friendly notes: Grazing livestock and seasonal bird restrictions
- Facilities: Church Stretton cafés and car parks
- Best for: Big views and a feeling of space
Wenlock Edge
Wenlock Edge feels older and more enclosed than much of Shropshire’s hill country. This long limestone escarpment is draped in ancient woodland, creating a walk defined by filtered light, twisting roots and narrow paths that follow the natural contours of the ridge. It is less about big horizons and more about atmosphere.
Walking here encourages a slower pace. The ground is often uneven, leaf covered in autumn and damp underfoot after rain, which adds to the sense of stepping into a lived-in landscape. Dogs that enjoy woodland exploration and sticking close will thrive, but this is a place to stay alert rather than let them roam freely.
- Distance: 4–7 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Terrain: Woodland trails, limestone paths
- Dog friendly notes: Narrow paths and uneven ground
- Facilities: Limited, village pubs nearby
- Best for: Woodland walking and quiet routes
Carding Mill Valley
Carding Mill Valley offers one of the most recognisable walking landscapes in Shropshire. The valley opens out gently from Church Stretton, drawing you along clear paths before inviting you higher into the surrounding hills if you choose. It works equally well as a shorter valley walk or as a gateway to longer routes.
Despite its popularity, it still feels grounded rather than overdeveloped. Streams cut through the valley floor, hills rise steadily on either side and there is a constant sense of movement through the landscape. Dogs enjoy the mix of water, open grass and varied terrain, though it pays to time your visit carefully to avoid crowds.
- Distance: 3–6 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Terrain: Valley paths, rocky tracks, open hills
- Dog friendly notes: Popular area with livestock present
- Facilities: Toilets, café and parking
- Best for: A classic Shropshire Hills experience
Stiperstones Ridge
The Stiperstones ridge brings a more rugged edge to Shropshire walking. Sharp quartzite outcrops line the narrow ridge, creating a route that feels wilder and more exposed than many expect from the county. The walking is linear and purposeful, with views that open up dramatically in clear conditions.
This is a walk that asks for a bit more confidence, both from you and your dog. The rocky sections demand steady footing and a watchful eye, but the payoff is a sense of remoteness that is rare so close to civilisation. It feels like a proper adventure without needing to travel far.
- Distance: 4–5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Terrain: Rocky ridge, uneven paths
- Dog friendly notes: Scrambling sections require care
- Facilities: Small car park only
- Best for: A wilder, more exposed walk
Attingham Park
Attingham Park shows a softer, more composed side of Shropshire. Sweeping parkland, mature trees and long river views combine to create an easygoing walking environment that still feels spacious. Routes can be adapted easily, making it a flexible option for different energy levels.
The estate is well managed and clearly laid out, which suits relaxed outings or recovery days between bigger walks. Dogs are welcome on leads and tend to enjoy the open grass and riverside stretches, even if the walking itself is gentler than elsewhere in the county.
- Distance: 2–5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Terrain: Parkland paths, riverside trails
- Dog friendly notes: Dogs must be kept on leads
- Facilities: Café, toilets and parking
- Best for: Gentle scenery and relaxed walks
Severn Way Shrewsbury
Following the Severn Way around Shrewsbury gives you a walk shaped by water rather than height. The river loops lazily around the town, creating flat, accessible paths that mix green space with glimpses of urban life. It is a route you can extend or shorten easily depending on time.
For dogs, this is an engaging but manageable environment. The changing smells, open banks and steady pace make it ideal for calmer days, and the proximity to cafés and pubs means it pairs well with a slower, social outing.
- Distance: 3–6 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Terrain: Riverside paths, grass and hard surfaces
- Dog friendly notes: Shared with cyclists and other walkers
- Facilities: Full town amenities
- Best for: Flexible, low effort walks
Brown Clee Hill
Brown Clee Hill often flies under the radar, yet it quietly holds the title of Shropshire’s highest point. The approach is steady rather than dramatic, with broad tracks leading you upward through open land that gradually reveals wide views across the county.
The lack of crowds adds to its appeal. Dogs can enjoy the open space, but the exposed nature of the hill means weather plays a bigger role than you might expect. On clear days it feels calm and expansive, while poor conditions quickly remind you that this is still high ground.
- Distance: 4–6 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Terrain: Open hill tracks and grass
- Dog friendly notes: Exposed in wind and poor weather
- Facilities: Limited parking only
- Best for: Quiet height and wide views
Mortimer Forest
Mortimer Forest sits along the border with Herefordshire and offers a dependable woodland walking option in almost any conditions. Forestry tracks provide structure, while smaller trails cut off into quieter corners of the forest, giving you a mix of straightforward and exploratory walking.
This is a practical choice after heavy rain or during winter, when higher ground can become difficult. Dogs that enjoy woodland scents and steady movement tend to settle into a comfortable rhythm here, making it a reliable fallback when plans need adjusting.
- Distance: 3–8 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Terrain: Forest tracks and woodland trails
- Dog friendly notes: Shared use with cyclists
- Facilities: Parking areas, occasional café pop ups
- Best for: Year round reliability
Whitchurch Waterways Country Park
Right up near the Cheshire border, Whitchurch Waterways brings a completely different feel to the list. This is low-lying, pastoral walking shaped by canals, meres and gentle farmland rather than hills. It is quiet, flat and surprisingly spacious once you get away from the town edge.
The walking is ideal for slower days or when conditions elsewhere are poor. Dogs tend to enjoy the mix of water, grassy paths and open views, and the lack of elevation makes it accessible year round without feeling dull.
- Distance: 3–5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Terrain: Canal paths, grass, farmland tracks
- Dog friendly notes: Livestock in surrounding fields
- Facilities: Parking, cafés in Whitchurch
- Best for: Flat walking and north Shropshire coverage
Ironbridge Gorge
Ironbridge Gorge adds depth on the eastern side of the county, following the River Severn as it cuts through steep, wooded slopes. The paths here feel layered, with riverside sections, woodland climbs and historic surroundings all combining into a walk that feels varied without being remote.
It is a good option when you want something more sheltered than open hills but still engaging. Dogs cope well with the mix of terrain, though some paths are narrow and shared, making awareness more important than speed.
- Distance: 3–6 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Terrain: Riverside paths, woodland trails, some steep sections
- Dog friendly notes: Narrow paths and shared use areas
- Facilities: Cafés, pubs and parking in Ironbridge
- Best for: River walking with character
Map of Dog Friendly Walks in Shropshire
Use the map below to explore all the routes featured in this guide and plan your next walk.
Ironbridge Gorge follows the River Severn as it cuts through steep, wooded sides on the eastern edge of Shropshire. The walk combines riverside paths with woodland sections and gentle climbs, creating a layered route that feels varied without being remote.
Historic features and changing viewpoints give the walk constant interest, while the shelter of the gorge makes it a good option when exposed hills are less inviting. It suits steady exploration rather than fast mileage.
Distance: 3–6 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Terrain: Riverside paths, woodland trails, some steep sections
Dog friendly notes: Narrow paths and shared use areas
Facilities: Cafés, pubs and parking in Ironbridge
Best for: Characterful river walking
Whitchurch Waterways Country Park offers a very different style of walking to much of Shropshire, shaped by canals, meres and flat pastoral land close to the Cheshire border. The routes follow calm waterways and grassy paths that feel open and spacious without any sense of height or exposure.
It is a walk that suits slower days, recovery outings or times when weather makes hill routes less appealing. The steady terrain and water-side setting create a relaxed rhythm that works well year round.
Distance: 3–5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Canal paths, grass, farmland tracks
Dog friendly notes: Livestock in surrounding fields
Facilities: Parking and cafés in Whitchurch
Best for: Flat walking and north Shropshire routes
Mortimer Forest sits along the Shropshire and Herefordshire border, offering a network of forestry tracks and quieter woodland trails. The structured paths make navigation straightforward, while smaller routes add interest for those who like to explore.
It is a reliable choice when conditions elsewhere are poor, providing sheltered walking and consistent terrain. The forest feels practical rather than dramatic, but its calm rhythm suits repeat visits.
Distance: 3–8 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Terrain: Forest tracks and woodland trails
Dog friendly notes: Shared use with cyclists
Facilities: Parking areas, occasional café pop ups
Best for: Year round reliability
Brown Clee Hill is Shropshire’s highest point, offering steady climbing and wide views without dramatic ground. Broad tracks lead across open land, gradually revealing the scale of the surrounding countryside.
The hill is often quieter than neighbouring areas, adding to its appeal for those seeking space. Weather plays a significant role here, with the exposed summit feeling very different depending on conditions.
Distance: 4–6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Open hill tracks and grass
Dog friendly notes: Exposed in wind and poor weather
Facilities: Limited parking only
Best for: Quiet height and wide views
This section of the Severn Way follows the looping bends of the River Severn as it curves around Shrewsbury. The walk is shaped by water rather than height, creating an easygoing route that blends green space with views of the town.
It works well as a flexible outing, allowing you to turn back or extend the walk depending on time. The steady pace and varied surroundings make it a dependable choice throughout the year.
Distance: 3–6 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Riverside paths, grass and hard surfaces
Dog friendly notes: Shared with cyclists and walkers
Facilities: Full town amenities
Best for: Flexible, low effort walks
Attingham Park offers a composed, open landscape of parkland, mature trees and gentle river views. The routes are well maintained and clearly laid out, making it easy to tailor the walk to your time and energy levels.
This is a calmer style of walking that suits relaxed outings and recovery days. The sense of space remains strong throughout the estate, even when visitor numbers are higher.
Distance: 2–5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Parkland paths, riverside trails
Dog friendly notes: Dogs must be kept on leads
Facilities: Café, toilets and parking
Best for: Gentle scenery and relaxed walks
Stiperstones Ridge brings a more rugged edge to Shropshire walking, with sharp quartzite outcrops lining a narrow, elevated route. The ridge has a distinctly wild feel, with long views that open up dramatically in clear weather.
The walking is more demanding than much of the county, requiring steady footing and confidence over uneven ground. In return, it offers a sense of remoteness that feels well earned rather than manufactured.
Distance: 4–5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Terrain: Rocky ridge, uneven paths
Dog friendly notes: Scrambling sections require care
Facilities: Small car park only
Best for: A wilder, more exposed walk
Carding Mill Valley is one of the most recognisable walking landscapes in Shropshire, opening gently from Church Stretton into the heart of the surrounding hills. The lower valley offers clear, accessible paths that gradually invite you higher if you choose to extend the walk.
Water, open grass and rising slopes give the route constant variety, making it appealing in all seasons. Despite its popularity, it retains a grounded feel that sees many walkers returning again and again.
Distance: 3–6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Valley paths, rocky tracks, open hills
Dog friendly notes: Popular area with livestock present
Facilities: Toilets, café and parking
Best for: A classic Shropshire Hills experience
Wenlock Edge is a long limestone escarpment running through central Shropshire, cloaked in ancient woodland and shaped by centuries of slow change. The walk follows narrow paths and forest tracks that wind along the ridge, offering an experience defined more by atmosphere than by open views.
The terrain encourages a slower pace, with uneven ground, exposed roots and seasonal leaf cover adding texture underfoot. It is a quieter, more enclosed walk that suits steady exploration rather than distance chasing.
Distance: 4–7 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Terrain: Woodland trails, limestone paths
Dog friendly notes: Narrow paths and uneven ground
Facilities: Limited, village pubs nearby
Best for: Woodland walking and quiet routes
The Long Mynd is a broad, high plateau above Church Stretton, defined by rolling open land rather than sharp summits. Walking here feels expansive and unhurried, with long grassy valleys cutting into the hills and wide tracks that encourage steady progress through the landscape.
The character of the walk shifts with the seasons, from firm summer paths and far reaching views to a more exposed, elemental feel in winter. It is a place that rewards awareness and patience, especially when livestock are grazing across the hills.
Distance: 6–10 miles depending on route
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Moorland tracks, grass, some stony sections
Dog friendly notes: Grazing livestock and seasonal bird restrictions
Facilities: Church Stretton cafés and car parks
Best for: Big views and a feeling of space
Find more routes across the country on the full Wildpack UK map, covering walks, beaches and outdoor spots nationwide.
What’s Nearby?
- Dog friendly walks in the Peak District
High edges, dramatic views and classic walking country just to the north east. - Dog friendly walks in North Wales
From coastal paths to mountain foothills, ideal when you want bigger landscapes. - Dog friendly walks in Cheshire
Gentle countryside, canals and woodland routes for easier days on foot. - Dog friendly walks in Staffordshire
From gritstone edges to peaceful parkland, perfect for any mood
Final thoughts
Shropshire does not try to impress all at once. Its strength lies in balance, offering space without severity and variety without chaos. You can build gentle days around rivers and estates, or push higher into hills that still feel grounded and approachable.
For dog owners who value steady, repeatable walking with enough change to stay interesting, Shropshire is a county that quietly earns its place in the rotation.