A Hidden Gem in Shropshire: Church Stretton
Nestled in the heart of Shropshire, Church Stretton is a charming town that has earned the nickname “Little Switzerland” from the Victorians. Its breathtaking countryside, reminiscent of the Swiss Alps, once attracted visitors seeking the health benefits of its mineral water, now bottled as Stretton Hills water. While it no longer serves as a health resort, the town has evolved into a vibrant destination for nature lovers and those seeking an authentic rural experience.
Exploring the Surroundings
Church Stretton is surrounded by natural beauty, making it a perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts. Long Mynd, a plateau part of the Shropshire Hills, is just a 20-minute walk away and offers some of the finest walking and cycling routes in the area. These paths are ideal for spotting wild ponies, red kites, and butterflies. The town itself is free of chain shops, with a strong emphasis on supporting local businesses.
Some notable establishments include Steele’s Family Bakery, which was named the best bakery in Shropshire in the 2025 English Business Awards, and Vine & Co, recognized as the best village shop in the Midlands at the Countryside Alliance awards. Every Thursday, the main square hosts a farmers’ market, a tradition dating back to the 13th century. During the summer, the annual Arts Festival adds to the town’s charm, offering a range of cultural activities.
Getting Around
The town is easily accessible via Transport for Wales, with the station serving as a convenient hub. The town centre is walkable, and there are several shuttle services available during the summer months. The Long Mynd and Stiperstones Shuttlebus runs five times a day on summer weekends, connecting Carding Mill Valley to Snailbeach Lead Mine. Additionally, three semi-frequent year-round services, including a “ring and ride” bus, provide further transportation options.
Accommodation Options
For those looking to stay overnight, Mynd Court is a great choice. This former vicarage offers a one-bedroom holiday property with stunning views of the countryside, a private outdoor seating area, and parking. Stays start at £380 for three nights for two people. Alternatively, Mynd House B&B provides a more affordable option, with partly accessible rooms and breakfast included. Prices begin at £138.50 per night for two people.
Shopping and Local Treasures
Church Stretton boasts a variety of unique shops. Burway Books, which has been in operation since 1974, is a must-visit for book lovers. Entertaining Elephants, a health food and gift shop housed in a Tudor building, offers a wide range of products. Saxton’s Deli is another highlight, known for its pies, puddings, and freshly made sandwiches. For those interested in antiques, the Stretton Antiques Market is a treasure trove of vintage items, including toy cars and paintings of the local landscape.
The Outdoor Depot is a go-to spot for hiking gear, with James Russell, the owner, creating the popular Stretton Summits Round walk. This 18.5-mile circular route takes hikers through five major summits surrounding the town.
Dining Experiences
Jemima’s Kitchen is a quaint tearoom offering a classic ploughman’s lunch, featuring Black Bomber cheese from Snowdonia. The King’s Arms serves traditional fare, including beer from Joule’s brewery. For a taste of Thai cuisine, Sawaddee Thai Restaurant is a family-run establishment known for its affordable and flavorful dishes. Ragleth Inn, located in the nearby village of Little Stretton, offers pub classics such as fish and chips and vegetarian options like butternut squash and lentil Wellington.
Things to Do
A short drive from Church Stretton, Acton Scott Heritage Farm offers an insight into 19th-century rural life. Visitors can participate in workshops on butter and cider making, spinning, and sheep shearing. The farm also features a café in a Victorian schoolroom, serving dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. There is also an Alice in Wonderland-themed soft play centre called Mad Hatters in the town, and the UNESCO-listed Ironbridge Gorge, a symbol of the Industrial Revolution, is just 18 miles away.
Drinks and Dinner
For a refreshing drink, The Old Bike Shop Bar has quickly become a community hub, offering craft ales and beers from local brewers. When it comes to dinner, Sawaddee Thai Restaurant and Ragleth Inn are top choices, each providing a unique dining experience.
Summer Walks
Church Stretton’s town council has curated a list of eight short, circular walking routes. One of these starts in the main square and takes walkers through the Long Mynd, past Carding Mill Church, Stretton’s Golf Club, and Cwmdale and Batch Valley before returning to Church Stretton. For those seeking higher elevation walks, the Long Mynd and Stiperstones Shuttlebus offers a hop-on, hop-off loop until September.
Fun Facts
- An Iron Age hillfort on Caer Caradoc, believed to be the site of ancient chieftain Caractacus’ last stand against the Romans, overlooks the town.
- Much of the town was destroyed by a fire in 1593, and many of its half-timbered buildings were rebuilt.
- According to local legend, Queen Victoria was so impressed by the quality of Church Stretton’s water that she had it shipped to the colonies during her reign. To commemorate this, the town unveiled an ornate drinking fountain in 1887 to mark her Golden Jubilee.