The Mortimer Trail is a 30-mile walk between Ludlow and Kington, gaining its name as it takes in the area the powerful Mortimer family dominated in mediaeval times. In April, four members of Newport & District Running Club set themselves the challenge of completing the route as a group, and Helen Holdroyd sent us this report afterwards:

We set out on 1st April, not for being fools, but we hoped to coincide with enjoying the landscape of spring flowers, bird call, long enough days and weather that would be conducive to carrying a rucksack and finding picnic spots to enjoy along the way (also, only date we could pin one another down!). We weren’t to be disappointed.

(Left to right): Anne Strowger, Helen Holdroyd, Pat Arnot, Ruth Corrigan

As public transport is limited, and the route is linear, we hatched a plan leaving a car at the end of the walk in Kington the day before, enjoying cycling to Knighton, to return on the train all set to go the following day.

Starting out early at Ludlow Castle, the trail was well marked, we weaved through woods, open countryside, and up and down valleys to enjoy the splendid views of Shropshire and eventually Herefordshire.

The trail follows a succession of hills and ridges, crossing valleys, and visiting villages and sites like Croft Ambrey and Wapley Hill Fort, so the scenery was constantly changing. Ruth’s attuned ear to bird call had us mesmerised and wild deer (not us!) were spotted.

There was time to stop and enjoy the scenery!

We enjoyed an overnight stay at the Riverside inn at Amnestrey, almost half way along the trail – highly recommended, terrific food, service and great accommodation.

There’s not much in the way of shops for snacks along the route so being prepared for this with provisions is advised. It’s a fabulous walk, the weather couldn’t have been kinder, and it goes without saying, the company was exemplary! Highly recommended.