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Walk
from 'The Royal Oak' Cardington to Caer Caradoc Hill Leave 'The Royal Oak' and turn right up the road; past the Church and the Village Hall. At the top of the road turn left. As you come to the edge of the village you will see the tudor style 'Brook House' on your right. Just beyond the house take the right hand turn sign-posted Wilston & Caradoc Hill. Immediately after turning right you cross the ford. Follow the lane for about half a mile until you get to the tiny hamlet of Wilston. At Wilston you'll see Wilston House on the left and Wilston Farm on the right. You can take your car as far as here, if you wish. At the corner where the tarmac road bears sharp right (by Wilston Farm), take the farm track on the left. You are now on the old drovers road to Church Stretton. As you ascend the slope on this track you get a fine view of Caer Caradoc, to the front on your right. Ignore the first sign-posted footpath on the right, continuing on the main track. Also ignore the second sign-posted footpath on the right. Continue through the road gate, just past which you will see a map with details of the area. Very shortly after passing the road gate you'll come across the footpath to Caradoc, off to the right. It is distinguished by having two footpath posts in very close proximity. Go over the stile and bear left up the slope towards Caradoc (now out of sight). Views of Caradoc will soon reappear and you will see the hill path you are about to take, in front of you, curving to the left around the hill. From this position you get a great view of the Lawley to your right. Proceed across the field, over the stile and start your main ascent (!), following the escarpment bearing left and up the hill. Following the path up the hill; you will see a rocky outcrop to your right. On passing the outcrop bear right to attain the summit. Once on top the views are fantastic. Look out for Cardington Church tower. Also magnificent views of the Lawley and the Wrekin. Reverse the route to return to Cardington. |