The best walks and hikes around Market Drayton

Yes, the area is well-suited for circular hikes. Many routes are designed as loops, so you can start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. These walks often combine sections of the Shropshire Union Canal towpath with paths through surrounding fields and woodlands.

The towpath along the Shropshire Union Canal is your best option for an easy, flat walk. The ground is firm and there's very little elevation change. A particularly pleasant and straightforward route is the Shropshire Union Canal – Tyrley Locks loop from Almington, which offers lovely scenery without being too strenuous.

Most trails around Market Drayton are great for dog walking, especially the open countryside and canal paths. However, the area is dominated by dairy farming, so you will likely encounter livestock. Always keep your dog on a lead in fields with sheep or cattle and be mindful of wildlife, particularly along the river and canal.

For a peaceful walk amongst the trees, you can explore the trails at Burntwood Forest. Another excellent local spot is Salisbury Hill Woodland, which offers a pleasant circular route with benches by the riverside. It's known as a good place to spot birds of prey.

While most local trails are gentle, there are options for longer walks. The Shropshire Union Canal – Tyrley Locks loop from Market Drayton is a moderate hike of over 7 miles (11 km). For a true challenge, you can tackle sections of the Shropshire Way, a long-distance footpath that passes through the region, offering a more demanding hiking experience.

The hiking landscape is defined by its gentle, pastoral character. Expect to find tranquil walks along the historic Shropshire Union Canal, serene riverside paths next to the River Tern, and routes through small woodlands and rolling farmland. It's less about steep hills and more about enjoying the peaceful English countryside.

Yes, you can easily combine a walk with a visit to a local pub. The Buttercross – Tudor House Pub loop from Market Drayton is a great example, incorporating a stop in the town as part of the route, allowing for refreshments before, during, or after your hike.

The routes around Market Drayton are well-regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the canal towpaths and the scenic beauty of the Tyrley Locks area. The mix of town, park, and countryside is frequently mentioned as a highlight.

You'll find a good selection of routes to choose from. There are over 25 hiking trails in the area, with the majority being easy or moderate. This provides plenty of options whether you're looking for a short stroll or a longer day out.

The Tyrley Locks are a defining feature of the Shropshire Union Canal near Market Drayton. They are a flight of five historic locks that navigate a 33-foot drop through a deep, mossy sandstone cutting. Many popular walks follow the towpath past the locks, offering a chance to see canal boats navigating this impressive piece of engineering.

For a walk that combines a bit of town history with green space, consider the The Buttercross – Town Park loop from Market Drayton. It's an easy route that is suitable for most ages and fitness levels, passing through the town's parkland which is ideal for a family outing.

Many of the best walks start directly from the town of Market Drayton, which is accessible by regional bus services. This makes it convenient to arrive without a car and immediately start exploring the canal towpaths or local park trails that begin in or near the town centre.