Church Stretton
Discover Church Stretton, our local Market Town.
Come and Visit Shropshire’s “Little Switzerland”
Church Stretton is a picturesque market town set in the heart of the Shropshire Hills. It serves as the primary gateway to the iconic Long Mynd and Carding Mill Valley, where visitors can enjoy scenic hikes, wild ponies, and sweeping views from peaks like Caer Caradoc. In town, guests can explore independent shops, a multi-story antiques center, cosy tea rooms, and traditional pubs, making it perfect for day-trippers.
Explore Stretton’s Shops
Stretton Antiques Market
Housed in a historic four-storey former maltings building, this treasure hunter’s paradise features dozens of stalls filled with vintage collectables, retro furniture, books, and curiosities. We often enjoy a rummage here and frequently pick up unique items for the cottages!
Traditional Market Day
Visit on a Thursday to explore the open-air market in the town square, offering local cheeses, fresh plants, baked goods, and artisan crafts.
Bookshops & Boutiques
Take time to browse the selection of independent shops, outdoor gear outfitters, and gift boutiques along the High Street and Sandford Avenue.
Food & Drink
Saxtons Deli
An award-winning delicatessen packed with regional cheeses, charcuterie, artisan sourdough, and local Shropshire pies, perfect for packing a hilltop picnic.
Cosy Cafés
Stop by local favourites like Berry’s Coffee House or Jemima’s Kitchen for hearty breakfasts, traditional afternoon teas, and homemade cakes served in a warm, nostaglic atmosphere.
Historic Country Pubs
Enjoy local Shropshire real ales and hearty meals at classic town inns like The King’s Arms and The Bucks Head, or venture just down the road to The Ragleth Inn and The Green Dragon in Little Stretton.
The Greenery on Offer
Rising directly behind Church Stretton, the Long Mynd is an expanse of heather-covered plateau carved by steep, dramatic valleys known locally as “batches” or “dindles.” As the central hub for exploring this National Trust landscape, the town provides immediate access to famous routes through Carding Mill Valley, leading visitors past trickling streams and wild ponies up to the high ridge of Pole Bank. Whether wandering through quiet, wooded ravines or following the crest for panoramic views extending across Shropshire to Wales, Church Stretton offers the perfect launchpad into one of the region’s most iconic outdoor spaces.
High-ridge Hikes
Caer Caradoc
Towering over the eastern side of town, Caer Caradoc is topped by an impressive Iron Age hill fort. Legend tells that this was the site of ancient British chieftain Caractacus’s last stand against the Romans. The climb is steep, but the panoramic views from the summit ridge are unforgettable.
Ragleth Hill
Often quieter than the Long Mynd, a walk along the spine of Ragleth Hill offers incredible vistas back towards the Stretton Valley and the jagged outline of The Lawley.
Planning to Visit
What to Expect
Some more ways to keep busy on your stay
Walking
Arguably one of the UK’s greatest walking counties, you’ll see stunning landscapes wherever you venture out to.
Shropshire Hills
Step directly from your doorstep into the Shropshire Hills for tranquility, scenic outdoor adventures and a daily escape into nature.
Fishing Lake
Just a five minute walk away from our cottages, guests can fish a beautifully maintained, well-stocked two-acre pool.
Estates & Gardens
Escape to Shropshire’s breathtaking estates and serene gardens, where centuries of heritage blossom.
All the History
Steeped in centuries of drama, Shropshire’s landscape tells the story of Britain’s fierce borderlands.
Activities for Kids
Beyond Middle Farm’s own play area and animals, discover a huge choice of family-friendly local activities perfect for everyone.
Land Rover Trips
Experience the Long Mynd from a new perspective with Middle Farm’s new 2.5-hour off-road Land Rover excursion.
Bikes & B Roads
Spa Treatments
Indulge in mobile spa treatments right at your cottage, just perfect for soothing muscles after exploring Shropshire Hills.
Paragliding
Experience the Long Mynd from a new perspective with a tandem paragliding flight with BHPA qualified instructors.
Cycling
The Shropshire Hills’ stunning countryside attracts year-round cyclists, who can easily access miles of scenic pathways.
Eating Out
Middle Farm is short drive from excellent eateries in nearby towns, including local favorites perfect for a special occasion.
Beautiful Dark Skies
Stargaze under Shropshire’s beautiful dark skies, offering a breathtaking, crystal-clear view of the cosmos right from your cottage.
Shire Horse Experience
Experience a full day immersion in all things Shire Horses with Steve Ledsham at Acton Scott Heritage Farm
Golf
This picturesque 18-hole golf course in the Shropshire Hills offers stunning views and is Britain’s 2nd highest Golf course.
Historic Towns
Wander back in time through Shropshire’s enchanting market towns and its grand country estates.