Severn Way

The journey begins at the remote source of the River Severn on the slopes of Plynlimon in the Cambrian Mountains. Hikers follow moorland tracks and faint paths as the infant river begins its descent, traversing open upland landscapes with panoramic views. The route heads southeast through Hafren Forest—an area of conifers and boggy ground—before following riverside trails and minor lanes through the Montgomeryshire countryside towards the town of Llanidloes, an inviting stop after a challenging introduction.

Leaving Llanidloes, the route continues to trace the River Severn's southward flow, primarily along riverbanks and quiet back roads. The path moves through a patchwork of farmland and woodland, with rich wildlife and occasional glimpses of the river’s broadening valley. Gentle undulations lead to Caersws, then on to the market town of Newtown, passing rural villages and historical landmarks typical of mid-Wales.

The route continues northeast along more developed riverbanks, fields, and wooded slopes as it heads toward Welshpool. This section travels through the attractive Severn Valley, passing through the villages of Abermule and Berriew. Gentle gradients and mostly well-trodden footpaths make for steady progress, with historic buildings, canal sections, and open countryside as highlights before arriving in the bustling market town of Welshpool.

Departing Welshpool, the trail quickly leaves urban areas and tracks north through quiet fields and by the Montgomery Canal. Crossing into England, the Severn Way wends through a flatter, pastoral landscape, with serene views of the river and opportunities to observe birdlife. The day’s walk ends at the hamlet of Melverley, known for its beautiful timber-framed church.

From Melverley, hikers move east, crossing flat floodplain meadows and tracing the Severn’s twisting loops through the heart of Shropshire countryside. The route skirts villages like Montford Bridge and gently ascends before following riverside paths directly into the historic town of Shrewsbury, where medieval architecture and the famous Severn bridges provide a fitting destination for the day.

Leaving Shrewsbury, the Severn Way heads southeast through a mix of woodlands, meadows, and river terraces, interspersed with occasional road sections. The trail follows the river’s curves and offers changing vistas until it reaches the iconic Ironbridge Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the location of the world’s first iron bridge—a highlight for many walkers.

This stage continues along the stunning Severn Gorge, with woodland trails, old railway lines, and riverside paths leading ever southward. The path features scenic viewpoints, dramatic cliffs, and tranquil stretches as it approaches the attractive market town of Bridgnorth, perched high above the river.

Following the river downstream, this section passes through the heart of Shropshire's countryside and along stretches of the Severn Valley Railway. Villages like Hampton Loade and Arley provide pleasant rest points amidst woodlands and pasture. The approach to Bewdley is charming, offering riverside promenades and the historic town’s lively atmosphere.

Departing Bewdley, the route hugs the river through Worcestershire’s lush pastures and wooded areas. Riverside paths and nature reserves follow the Severn's increasingly broad course towards Stourport and onward past Holt Fleet’s distinctive bridge. Arriving in the cathedral city of Worcester offers a chance to explore heritage landmarks and relax by the riverside.

Continuing south, this stage features riverside meadows and floodplains rich with birdlife. The trail follows the Severn close by as it moves through Kempsey and Upton-upon-Severn, where historic pubs and lively culture mark the halfway point. The path continues with gentle walking to the medieval riverside town of Tewkesbury, known for its abbey and confluence with the River Avon.

This stage leaves Tewkesbury and heads south through open meadows and agricultural land with wide river views. The Severn’s character grows ever more tidal as you approach the outskirts of Gloucester. The day’s walk is marked by rich wildlife and tranquil countryside before entering the historic city, where the docks and cathedral are major highlights.

Leaving Gloucester, the route embarks on the lower Severn, with the river's vast tidal sweep flanked by expansive wetlands and hamlets. The path undulates through Elmore, Frampton-on-Severn, and Sharpness, occasionally diverting inland due to the river’s tidal banks and private land, before reaching the historic town of Berkeley, renowned for its impressive castle.

The final section heads through the Gloucestershire countryside towards the southern end of the estuary, passing through Oldbury-on-Severn and Aust, near the Severn Bridge. Tidal landscapes, views across the estuary, saltmarsh habitats, and occasional industrial elements feature on this concluding stretch. The Severn Way typically finishes at Severn Beach or continues through urban parkland and harborside settings into central Bristol for those who wish to complete the trail at the symbolic mouth of the river.