The best walks and hikes around Bausley With Criggion

Bausley with Criggion is a community located right on the border between Powys in Wales and Shropshire in England. The area's landscape is dominated by the Breidden Hills, which rise dramatically from the Severn Valley plain.

The Breidden Hills are a trio of volcanic peaks offering a rewarding challenge with fantastic panoramic views. The trails here are a mix of field paths, woodland tracks, and steep, open hilltops. The unique geology also supports rare plant species, making it a fascinating area to explore.

Yes, the area is well-suited for circular hikes. A great moderate option is the Wooden Boardwalk Over Pond – Totem Pole Trailhead loop from Crew Green. This 7.1-mile (11.5 km) route gives you a comprehensive tour of the landscape, including ascents with rewarding views.

Definitely. For a shorter and less strenuous outing, consider the View Across Wales – Moel y Golfa Summit Monument loop from Trewern. It's an easy 2.8-mile (4.6 km) walk that still provides the satisfaction of reaching a summit and enjoying beautiful views across Wales.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails in the Breidden Hills. However, you will be walking through areas with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead and under close control, especially in fields with sheep. Always be prepared to clean up after your pet.

Rodney's Pillar is a prominent 54-foot stone monument on top of Breidden Hill, built to commemorate naval victories. It's a popular destination for hikers. A challenging but rewarding route that takes you there is the Breidden Hills loop from Middletown, which covers the main peaks.

The area around Criggion Quarry, a historic site with unique flora, can be explored on several trails. The Totem Pole Trailhead – Wooden Boardwalk Over Pond loop from Criggion is a 4.5-mile (7.3 km) moderate hike that passes through the landscape surrounding the quarry, offering a glimpse into its industrial past and natural recovery.

Parking is limited and often consists of small lay-bys or informal spots near trailheads. For popular routes starting from villages like Middletown or Criggion, it's best to arrive early to find a space. Please park considerately and do not block gates or local access.

There's a good mix of difficulties. You'll find over 70 routes, with about half rated as easy and half as moderate. The main challenges come from the steep ascents up the Breidden Hills, which can be strenuous but are generally short. There is at least one difficult route for those seeking a tougher challenge.

The komoot community rates the hikes around Bausley with Criggion very highly. Reviewers often praise the stunning 360-degree views from the hilltops and the satisfying sense of accomplishment after a steep climb. The mix of woodland and open terrain is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

The Breidden Hills offer short, steep, and dramatic volcanic peaks that rise sharply from the plains. In contrast, the National Trust's Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd provide a much larger expanse of rolling, heather-covered moorland with deep valleys. Both are excellent, but Breidden offers more abrupt climbs and a distinct 'island' of hills.

Yes, the region is full of fantastic hiking areas. The Stiperstones National Nature Reserve is a popular favorite, known for its dramatic quartzite ridges like the Devil's Chair. For a broader landscape, many people explore the Shropshire Hills National Landscape, which offers a vast network of trails through picturesque countryside.