Alpine-like valleys, natural springs and houses hugging the hillside. No, you’re not in the Swiss Alps, but in the beautiful spa town of Church Stretton, aka ‘Little Switzerland’. Nestled in the heart of the Shropshire Hills, the market earned this nickname in the late Victorian age, when it became a bit of a health resort.
Just south of Shrewsbury, Church Stretton is a popular walking spot that boasts the most incredible surrounding landscapes—from the heather-clad slopes of the legendary Long Mynd to the rugged edges of Caer Caradoc. At the same time, the town’s natural springs provide a source of Stretton Hills bottled water.
What is there to do in Church Stretton?
Beyond its lovely look, Church Stretton serves best as a launchpad to the Shropshire Hills. So grab your hiking boots if you’re ready to explore. You will want to check out the historic Ludlow Castle, the dramatic ridge of The Stiperstones, and the gently rolling Clun Valley.
Hike the trails from Carding Mill Valley to the Lightspout Waterfall or explore the highest point of the plateau at Pole Bank. Or if you’d prefer, and don’t want to hike to the top, you can drive the winding five-mile Burway Loop to take in the scenery right from your car.
But it’s Long Mynd, which rises around Church Stretton, that continues to draw people into the area. You will even find a shuttle bus on weekends running from the railway station to the top of the valley. Up here, soak up the gorgeous, expansive heather-covered moorland that stretches for miles.
But there are reasons to hang about the town too. Church Stretton comes with its very own 18-hole golf course, while the high street is full of charming little indie shops and eateries (if you fancy a gentler stroll). Plus, the Church Stretton Arts Festival has been held every year since 1967 (this year, July 25 to August 9, 2026).
How do I get there from Birmingham?
It takes just over an hour to drive to Church Stretton from Birmingham, if you take the M54, the A5 and the A49. You can also hop on the train from Birmingham New Street to Shrewsbury, then catch another train to Church Stretton, which takes just over an hour and a half.
