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 along the waterside in deepest rural Montgomeryshire. Our journey encompasses the upper reaches of the River Severn, the longest in Great Britain, together with the engineering spectacle of the Montgomery Canal. During our amble along the banks of these two diverse watercourses, we get to view the Welsh countryside in all its Autumnal magnificence as well as broad-reaching vistas of the Shropshire Hills and the distant Welsh peaks of Snowdonia which frame this naturally low-lying area.
On this almost flat amble we might share some of the magical moments with its natural inhabitants which this correspondent has encountered over the years walking these parts. These include a plethora of birdlife, the elusive blue flash of the kingfisher, a fleeting moment with a lovable otter and the more mundane goings-on of the busy water voles whose lives criss-cross these banks. We will also see the many restoration efforts the Friends of the Canal have introduced to boost habitats along its course.
Whilst walking and absorbing our natural spectacle, we will discuss the history and geography of these two notable watercourses. We will look at the technical marvels of the canal network of which this Montgomery branch was part, including the intricacies of the Berriew Aquaduct. We will also consider the great River Severn as it starts its long meandering journey through a large swathe of Welsh, then English countryside.
The majority of the route is by well-established pathway and towpath and there are a few small sections along quiet roads. The route is almost entirely flat with a total ascent under 150 ft (I've included an elevation diagram in the above photoset)
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 we will provide ample alternative opportunities, please contact me with any concerns.
Due to the proximity to water throughout the walk, please bring plenty of 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 potential flood issues or weather-related or similar, will be communicated via the group WhatsApp or via the submitted email.
Berriew (Aberriw) free car park (next to the tennis club and beneath Berriew / Aberriw Aquaduct). Approx 20 places The walk will commence at 10.00 promptly with a brief welcome talk immediately prior to the depart. Also please allow additional time for any personal preparations.
