Stiperstones Cottages with Hot Tubs

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Sightseeing

The Stiperstones National Nature Reserve offers some of Shropshire's most spectacular landscapes. This 6-mile quartzite ridge stands out dramatically against the surrounding hills, with the Devil's Chair rock formation visible for miles. The reserve covers 1,000+ acres of heathland that's home to rare wildlife including the bilberry bumblebee.

Snailbeach Lead Mine (SY5 0NR, open Apr-Oct, Weds-Sun 1pm-5pm) gives visitors a fascinating glimpse into the area's industrial past. Once Britain's richest lead mine, it now scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. The guided tours take you through restored buildings and even into a section of the mine itself.

The Bog Visitor Centre (SY5 0NG, open Mar-Oct, 10am-5pm) is housed in a former Victorian school. It's earned 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor for its excellent exhibits about local mining history and great homemade cakes. I've heard their coffee is properly strong too - just what you need after a morning hike!

Mitchell's Fold Stone Circle (SY9 5JA, open daily, free access) sits just 5 miles away. This Bronze Age monument dates back to 2000-1400 BC and consists of 15 stones in a 30-metre circle. It's less busy than Stonehenge but equally atmospheric, especially at sunset.

Pet Friendly

Dogs absolutely love the Stiperstones! The extensive network of public footpaths means endless walking opportunities without needing to drive anywhere. The main ridge path runs for 6 miles with stunning views in all directions. We recommend starting at the Knolls car park (SY5 0NL) where there's plenty of space.

The Stiperstones Inn (SY5 0LZ) welcomes dogs both in the bar area and their beer garden. They provide water bowls and even have treats behind the bar. Their Sunday roasts are legendary locally, but book ahead as they get packed.

For rainy days, The Bog Visitor Centre allows well-behaved dogs inside, making it perfect for a wet weather option. They've even got a special dog water station outside.

Remember that while dogs are welcome on the nature reserve, ground-nesting birds are present between April and July. During this period, keeping your dog on a lead in heathland areas is essential. The woodland sections remain perfect for off-lead adventures year-round.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Stiperstones

1. The Devil's Chair - This massive quartzite outcrop sits at the highest point of the Stiperstones ridge (536m). Local legend claims the Devil sits here during stormy weather. The 360-degree views are incredible, stretching across to Wales, the Long Mynd and even the Wrekin on clear days. It's a moderately challenging 40-minute walk from the main car park. One visitor told me: "We timed our visit for sunset and it was magical watching the light change across the landscape while sitting in the natural seat of the rock."

2. Snailbeach Lead Mine - This remarkably preserved industrial site tells the story of what was once the UK's most productive lead mine. The restored engine house, blacksmith's shop and miners' dry room give a real sense of working conditions in the 19th century. The 45-minute guided tours (£6 adults, £3 children) include entry to a section of the actual mine. A recent visitor commented: "Our guide John was incredibly knowledgeable. The kids were fascinated by the stories of children as young as 8 working in the mines."

3. The Bog Visitor Centre - This former Victorian school now houses excellent displays about the mining communities that once thrived here. What makes this place special is how it captures the social history of the area. The homemade cakes in their café are worth the trip alone! Their local history walks (£4, Thursdays at 11am, Apr-Sept) take you to hidden spots you'd never find otherwise. "The before and after photos showing how populated the area once was compared to today were eye-opening," reported one TripAdvisor reviewer.

What's the best time of year to visit Stiperstones?

August and September offer the most reliable weather and spectacular purple heather covering the hillsides. Spring brings wonderful wildflowers and active wildlife. Winter can be magical with frost-covered rocks and far fewer visitors, but check weather forecasts as the ridge can be dangerous in snow or high winds.

Can I see the Northern Lights from Stiperstones?

Yes, occasionally! The Stiperstones' elevation and minimal light pollution make it one of the best spots in England for stargazing. During periods of high solar activity, the Northern Lights have been visible here. The Shropshire Astronomical Society sometimes runs stargazing events on the ridge.

Are there any good pubs near Stiperstones?

The Stiperstones Inn (SY5 0LZ) is the classic local choice with excellent food and real ales. The Horseshoe Inn at Bridges (SY5 0HF) is about 15 minutes' drive and sits beside a lovely stream with outdoor seating. For something special, The Bridges pub in Ratlinghope brews its own beer on-site.

How difficult is the walk to the Devil's Chair?

It's a moderate 40-minute walk each way from the main car park. The path is well-marked but rocky in places with about 150m of elevation gain. Proper footwear is essential as the quartzite can be slippery when wet. There are several benches along the route if you need to rest.

Is there mobile phone reception in Stiperstones?

Reception is patchy. The ridge itself often has good signal due to its height, but many of the valleys have no coverage at all. O2 and EE tend to have the best coverage in the area. Most cottages offer WiFi, but it's worth checking speeds with the owner if you need reliable internet.

Where's the nearest supermarket to Stiperstones?

The Co-op in Pontesbury (SY5 0QD) is about 15 minutes' drive and stocks most essentials. For a larger shop, Shrewsbury has Tesco, Sainsbury's and M&S about 30 minutes away. Many cottages arrange welcome hampers with local produce if requested in advance.

Helpful links:

1. Shropshire Hills AONB Stiperstones Information
2. Natural England - Stiperstones National Nature Reserve
3. Shropshire Walking Routes - Stiperstones