About the Weekend
Welcome to our Shropshire Hills Trail Running Weekend
Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) with our exclusive trail running weekend tailored for women. Nestled just a short stroll away from the charming market town of Church Stretton, often affectionately referred to as 'Little Switzerland' by the Victorians, this retreat offers a unique blend of natural splendour and historical charm.
Your home for the weekend is the exquisite Clearviews Cottage, a premium abode conveniently situated within a mere 10-minute walk from Church Stretton. Boasting direct access to the trails, this haven provides breathtaking views of the Shropshire Hills, visible from the house, garden, and the inviting hot tub jacuzzi. Additionally, a delightful country pub is just a stone's throw away, perfect for unwinding after a day on the trails.
Your Trail Running Experience
The Shropshire Hills, characterised by their craggy volcanic peaks, mark the transition between the English Midlands and the Welsh uplands. This distinctive landscape is dotted with commons, heath, moorland, and wild grasslands, creating a sanctuary for upland birds and free-roaming ponies.
Designed for trail running enthusiasts who prioritise friendship and support over competition, our weekend promises three social-paced runs. These outings focus on fun, friendship, and an opportunity to explore the mesmerising scenery with occasional stops for photos and regrouping.
Shropshire's rugged terrain offers a thrilling blend of challenges and rewards. To fully relish the experience, participants should have a good level of fitness and feel comfortable on trails. Our seasoned She Runs Outdoors team will be by your side, offering expert route guidance and ensuring your safety with first aid support if needed.
A Weekend to Remember
Escape the daily hustle and bustle and surrender to the serenity of Shropshire. Connect with kindred spirits, traverse stunning landscapes, and forge memories that will last a lifetime. Join us for a weekend that promises adventure, camaraderie, and moments that will stay etched in your heart.
Secure Your Spot
Seize this opportunity to be part of a trail running escape, experiencing the joy of running, the bonds of friendship, and the splendour of the great outdoors.
Your Run Leader
Rachel Murphy
Your runs will be guided by Rachel Murphy; Rachel is an experienced trail runner and qualified trail and ultra-running coach, and a Salomon Running Ambassador. Rachel and her team will support you throughout the run and will be able to give you first-aid treatment if you need it.
Itinerary
Friday
Arrive 4pm
Settle into your room, meet other guests
Short shake-out run
Evening meal back at the house
Time to chill and relax after your journey
Advice from Rachel on how to plan your own adventures and running routes.
Run details:
Our first run will be a short shake-out run, to the summit of Nover's Hill, located behind Clearviews and rising 305 metres high, with glorious views over the village to the surrounding hills and countryside. This short 3-mile run is the perfect way to kick off our weekend, allowing us to stretch our legs, get to know each other and get an idea of the stunning landscapes that we will explore over the next few days.
Saturday
Self-serve Breakfast provided
9 am 14 mile run
Post run stretch
Refuel with a Buffet-style lunch: a selection of savoury food and salads.
Afternoon free time
Homemade dinner is provided at the house to eat together.
Run Details:
The Long Mynd Adventure
Prepare for a day of exhilarating exploration as we conquer the Long Mynd, offering expansive views that stretch across the picturesque Shropshire Hills. Departing from Clearviews Cottage, our journey takes us through a tapestry of diverse landscapes.
We'll ascend through Castle Hill and Plush Hill, venturing into the wildlife-rich upland heathland of the Long Mynd and up to the Pole Bank trig point and toposcope.
Along the way, we'll trace segments of the Cross Britain Way and Jack Mynton Way, immersing ourselves in the natural splendour surrounding us. Our path leads us to the enchanting Lightspout Waterfall, a perfect spot to catch our breath and take in the beauty of the surroundings.
With a whopping 900 meters of elevation, this route promises a challenge that's as rewarding as it is awe-inspiring. Ascend to the heights, savouring panoramic vistas and saying hello to wild ponies, and then let gravity lead you down long, runnable downhill stretches and tranquil flats. This is a trail runner's dream!
As we descend from the hills, we'll be treated to the enchanting embrace of woodland trails, leading us to the tranquil Carding Mill Valley. For those seeking an extra thrill, a quick detour offers the chance for a wild swim in the reservoir, surrounded by stunning views in all directions.
Whether you choose to take a refreshing dip or, if you prefer to stay with the group, we weave our way back to Clearviews Cottage through the golf course and Nover's Hill, where we can have a post-run stretch and eat a delicious lunch.
Sunday
Self-serve Breakfast provided
9 am 8-mile run
Post run stretch
Refuel with a light lunch provided
Afternoon free time
We will celebrate our final night with dinner at Clearviews, then a short stroll to the local pub for drinks (not included), and a chance to celebrate running with new friends.
Run Details:
Experience the Caer Caradoc Loop – a tranquil escape on the serene side of the valley.
As you gaze upon Caer Caradoc from the comfort of the house or unwind in the inviting hot tub, its majestic silhouette etches a striking view on the Shropshire skyline. Today, we embark on a thrilling journey to run to the summit.
This route introduces you to one of Shropshire's most enchanting hills, Caer Caradoc Hill, standing at 459 meters above sea level. Dominating the landscape above Church Stretton, Caradoc is undeniably one of the jewels in Shropshire's crown. Its rugged ridges and the awe-inspiring Iron Age hill fort that graces its summit add to its allure. Along the way, we'll also explore three other peaks—Willstone Hill, Hope Bowdler Hill, and Helmeth Hill—before descending through pretty woods, crossing babbling streams, and ultimately returning to the cosy confines of the cottage.
Monday
Self-serve breakfast provided
Check out 11 am
Say your goodbyes to your new friends
Our Monday checkout not only gives us a full day of adventure and fun on Sunday, but it also gives you a chance to take things leisurely or go for one last self-navigated exploration before your drive home.
Accommodation: Clearviews
Originally two 1800s cobblers cottages Clearviews is a beautifully transformed haven for the modern adventurer. These historic structures have been meticulously renovated to create a spacious and contemporary retreat that perfectly complements the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an open-plan chef's kitchen, where we prepare hearty meals for your active days ahead. The adjoining sitting area, complete with a cosy log burner, is the ideal place to unwind, share stories, and bask in the warmth of the fire's glow. For those seeking additional space to relax, there's a separate large lounge, also featuring a log burner, providing the perfect ambience for quiet moments of reflection.
Clearviews offers a selection of luxurious bedrooms, each thoughtfully designed to provide a haven of comfort and style. Every bedroom boasts its own en-suite, complete with a rejuvenating shower, as well as a loo and basin, with two of the rooms also having a bath. You'll find the comfort you deserve with underfloor heating and a heated towel rail, ensuring you feel pampered throughout your stay. All rooms on this weekend are shared but you of course have your own super comfortable bed.
One of the true highlights of Clearviews is the breathtaking scenery that surrounds it. Every room offers incredible views, allowing you to wake up to the beauty of nature or enjoy a moment of serenity as you unwind in the comfort of your own space. If you're looking for an even more immersive experience, step outside to our garden, where you can take in the panoramic vistas. And for those seeking the ultimate relaxation, our hot tub and decking area provide the perfect spots to soak and rejuvenate while still savouring those stunning views.
The owners of Clearviews, have crafted a tranquil and luxurious escape, perfectly in harmony with the rugged charm of the outdoors. Whether you're gearing up for a trail running adventure or seeking a serene retreat to recharge, Clearviews is your sanctuary in the heart of nature. Book your stay now and experience the perfect blend of history, comfort, and natural beauty for an unforgettable weekend of trail running and relaxation.
Price £550 pp
Secure your place with a £180 deposit. Your balance is due eight weeks before the start of the weekend.
Included
3 nights accommodation at Clearviews
Guided trail runs by a fully qualified running coach and support runner
Coaching advice and guidance throughout the weekend
Free digital photos after the weekend
All meals
Not Included
Alcoholic drinks, although you are welcome to bring and buy your own
Additional drinks and snacks
Additional activities
Transport to and from Church Stretton
Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions.
Please read our Trail Escapes T&Cs before booking.
The accommodation is very well located for access from around the UK and for exploring the beautiful Shropshire Hills AONB
Clearviews is the marketing name of the property, the full address is: Rowley Cottage, Shrewsbury Road, All Stretton, Shropshire, SY6 6HE
Transport
As with all of our Trail Escapes, we will set up a private Facebook group just for guests. We encourage you to use this as an opportunity to car share or share taxis if coming via public transport, should you wish.
PARKING: For planning permission reasons there is only parking for a maximum of 5 cars (3 in the garage and 2 on the drive) so additional vehicles must be parked elsewhere. We have arranged for additional parking nearby. Parking at the cottage will be first come, first serve. Please let us know if you are car sharing or coming by train to help with our planning.
ELECTRIC VEHICLES: Charging electric vehicles at the property is strictly prohibited as it is not covered by our insurance (Holiday Home insurance only covers charging vehicles from a dedicated EV charger). The socket in the garage is limited in current-carrying capacity and can cause the main electrical supply to the house to trip.
Nearest Train Station: Church Stretton 1.3 miles
Taxis:
Church Stretton Taxi on 07487650889 - Merv Price - can be contacted for local and longer distance travel.
Long Mynd Private Hire can be contacted on 01694722472 for journeys over 10 miles.