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Leintwardine-Orleton Taster Walks

Leintwardine to Leominster

Leintwardine was once the Roman settlement of Branogenium. Take the small lanes past Kinton to cross the A4113 and ascend Shelderton Hill. Whilst climbing, take the occasional break to enjoy the countryside opening up behind you. Pass Far Barn before descending through Stubbs Coppice. Glimpse Ludlow and the western end of Wenlock Edge from along this section of the Trail.

As you go down the lanes towards Downton, the wooded high ground is Mortimer Forest. Along the lower edge of the woods, it is possible to pick out the aqueducts of the Elan Valley Pipeline, which supplies Birmingham with water from the Elan Valley above Rhayader. Pass in front of Downton Castle to ascend Hunstay Hill before dropping down to Burrington. Visit the church to see the fine collection of cast iron tombstones dating from the 17th century, a time when the surrounding areas were known for their iron works.

From Burrington, pass through Elton to climb up to again meet the Mortimer Trail where it starts its ascent, to the top of High Vinnalls. On clear days the effort of climbing High Vinnalls is well rewarded. Follow the Mortimer Trail as it runs south but leave it near the Goggin and walk down to Richard's Castle. Visit the church as this is a further example of a church with a detached tower. There are some remains of Richard's Castle behind the church.

Cross the B4361 and follow the path past Bury and Bilbury to Orleton. From Tunnel Lane, first cross the remains of the Leominster to Stourport Canal before crossing the Hereford to Shrewsbury railway line on the trek to Eye. Again cross the railway line en route for Luston and Eyton. Cross the B4361 again, but not the railway, and walk into Leominster.