THE KERRY RIDGEWAY

Step back through time on the Kerry Ridgeway

The Welsh/Shropshire border, otherwise known as the Marches, is criss-crossed by countless old tracks and route ways, threading between farms and villages, old mines and river valleys, hilltop forts and places of ancient mysticism and power. Many have been reabsorbed into the landscape, while others have become part of today’s road network.

Fortunately, some of these historic tracks remain tantalisingly intact such as the Kerry Ridgeway, once the main route from Wales to London for droving cattle, sheep and geese. Its origins are lost in the mist of time but it is certainly older than the Iron Age and Dark Ages earthworks which cut its line.

This gentle 15 mile (24km) route stretches from Bishop’s Castle through the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to the Cider House, Powys. It takes you through pastureland, along tracks and minor roads, ideal for walkers, horse riders and mountain bikers.

Discover for yourself the motte-and-bailey castle called Bishopsmoat, the Iron Age hill fort Caer Din and the Bronze Age burials christened Two Tumps.

The Kerry Ridgeway guide booklet provides full details about this trail and is available to buy from Local Visitor Information Centres.