We are the South Shropshire Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Alan D.
Join our welcoming and friendly Group for some pleasant, energetic but easy-paced hike and chat in rural Montgomeryshire. Our outward journey, starting at the unusual Berriew Aqueduct, will be along the towpath of the Montgomery Canal with its history founded in the early years of the Industrial Revolution. Today's section, from Berriew to Belan, is, in my opinion, the canal's best offering for scenery, wildlife and the sheer beauty of its watercourse.
When established, the canal system was at the very forefront of engineering and technical capabilities, and we will view the evidence of these technical marvels in the locks and similar infrastructure during our journey. Long since abandoned as an active waterway, nowadays the canal has been nurtured as a nature reserve, and we will enjoy its pockets of flora and fauna as we move along its course. We will see the many restoration efforts the Friends of the Canal have introduced to boost habitats along its course. This first half of our journey is flat.
Our return journey is a contrast, much more hilly and much more typical of the rolling countryside in this part of the world. We will journey back through the green hills and arable farmland overlooking the Canal and the River Severn valley just beyond.
The route is by well-established pathway and towpath and there are a few small sections along quiet roads. I've included an elevation diagram to show the inclines of the second half of the walk.
We are a very gregarious lot and welcome and encourage walkers from outside our Group (if so, please contact me via the email link). As always, we will have an 'elevenses' break as well as a lunch stop, so bring your packed lunches (there are no shopping facilities en route).
Sadly, there are no dedicated toilet facilities on the walk. Whilst there will be ample alternative opportunities, please contact me with any concerns.
Due to the proximity to water throughout the first half of the walk, you may wish to bring insect repellent to avoid bother from those pesky little blighters.
Unfortunately, we have a Group policy of no dogs (with the exception of Guide and Assistance dogs)
Any late changes, including weather-related or similar, will be communicated via the group WhatsApp or via the submitted email.
Berriew (Aberriw) Recreation Ground free car park (next to the tennis club and the Berriew / Aberriw Aqueduct). If you are coming from the A483, go past the first Car Park entrance (for the Football Club). Our park is on the left 100m further on just before the road goes under the aqueduct. Approx 20 places The walk will commence at 10.00 promptly with a brief welcome talk immediately prior to the departure. Also, please allow additional time for any personal preparations.
