The Long Mynd – Outdoor Photography

The viewpoint image in this month’s Outdoor Photography magazine (July 2019 issue) was taken from Burway Hill, overlooking Caer Caradoc, The Lawley and The Wrekin.

In the accompanying text, I recommend parking in Carding Mill Valley and then picking up the Burway lane, which climbs up onto the Long Mynd.

If you have time, head round the bottom of Burway Hill and pick up Townbrook Hollow. It’s a much quieter valley than Carding Mill, and the climb out of it is gentle and steady for most of the way. It’s not until you reach the valley head that the views really begin to open up.

Townbrook Hollow, Long Mynd, Church Stretton, Shropshire

From here, it’s a short stroll to pick up The Burway. Turn right to drop downhill, passing a car parking area.

The Burway and Carding Mill Valley on the Long Mynd, Church Stretton, Shropshire

Devil’s Mouth is a tempting craggy outcrop that pulls many a walker, and it is certainly a worthy diversion, rewarding those who do with some spectacular views of the Stretton Hills. 

From here it is possible to pick up the path that runs alongside the Burway, bringing you to the spot where I captured this shot (and a few others).

The Burway on the Long Mynd, with Caer Caradoc, The Lawley, and, in the distance, The Wrekin, Church Stretton, Shropshire

Take care on the Burway on your way back to Carding Mill at this time of year. It’s popular with drivers heading to the summit to watch the sunset, or those racing to get back down before it gets dark.

Cars descending The Burway on the Long Mynd, Church Stretton, Shropshire

Photographers should linger, while the setting sun turns the Stretton Hills a glorious shade of orange. Enjoy.

Carding Mill Valley and the Burway on the Long Mynd, with Hope Bowdler Hill and Caer Caradoc in the distance, Church Stretton, Shropshire
Outdoor Photography Magazine – July 2019 issue