We are the Mortimer Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
We start on the road from Mortimer’s Cross, but quickly turn up Covenhope Lane, which is usually quiet. At Covenhope farm we follow a track to meet the Mortimer Trail at a parking space, and enter Shobdon Wood. Some forestry work will be taking place in August, but should not impinge on our route.
We climb quite steeply for a while, but near the top, there’s a bench for a pause to take in what views are left; you can still just see the Malverns.
After a steady walk along the flank of Shobdon Hill Wood, we catch some glimpses of the Lugg Valley below and the hills beyond.
The path continues on a general gentle descent, and then at the 6km mark climbs sharply through woods to rejoin the Mortimer Trail and the top of Shobdon Hill Wood.
At the top there’s the chance for an early lunch break. There is a bench with views of Wapley Hill and a little further on, space for the rest of us. The climbs are all behind us now, and we descend the hill towards Shobdon, passing the Arches and the church, where we can pause for a visit if it’s open.
From the church, we follow the drive towards the village, but then turn across parkland, passing between lakes, and then on through a maize field, where the farmer has thoughtfully cut a path through following the right of way.
We cross the Mortimer’s Cross – Shobdon road, and pass through Beeches Campsite on the public footpath. The route then takes us through a wheat field, a small wood, another field to a lane, though a gate in a hedge and two more fields to Pencombestone and the lane past The Buzzards and back to Mortimer’s Cross.
The going is for the most part good, though it can be a little muddy and slippery in places if wet. Sticks are useful but not essential. There are gates, but no stiles. In recent years the forest has re-grown, blocking some of the views.
Registered assistance dogs only.
Bring a packed lunch.
If you would like to join this walk please book a place with the leader. If you are unable to attend, please cancel your booking so that someone else can take your place. Do not turn up for a walk without booking, as we may have to turn you away.
Car sharing is encouraged to minimise car parking, fuel cost and carbon footprint.
The Grange Inn car park : Parking is free, but the proprietors ask that we purchase something from them, even if it’s only a takeaway coffee or cake.
