
Mortimer Forest Shropshire
An ancient woodland paradise near Ludlow, offering stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and enchanting trails for walkers and cyclists.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Bluebells in bloom, fresh air

Mortimer Forest Shropshire
Best Time
Bluebells in bloom, fresh air

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient woodland paradise near Ludlow, offering stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and enchanting trails for walkers and cyclists.
"An incredibly beautiful and delightfully ethereal landscape that wouldn’t be out of place in a Lord Of The Rings film set."

Wear sturdy footwear
Trails can be muddy, especially after rain. Wellies or hiking boots are recommended! :athletic_shoe:
Pack a picnic
Enjoy the scenery with a packed lunch. Many spots offer stunning views. :sandwich:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bluebell Meadow
Specific location varies seasonally
A breathtaking carpet of bluebells in spring, a truly magical sight. Best experienced on a sunny day.

High Vinnalls Viewpoint
Vinnalls Car Park area
Panoramic views over the Teme Valley and surrounding Shropshire countryside. Perfect for a picnic.

Ancient Woodland Trails
Throughout the forest
Wander through a mix of conifers and ancient broadleaf trees, feeling like you've stepped back in time.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Trails
Dog Walker Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy footwear
Trails can be muddy, especially after rain. Wellies or hiking boots are recommended! :athletic_shoe:
Pack a picnic
Enjoy the scenery with a packed lunch. Many spots offer stunning views. :sandwich:
Download offline maps
Trail markings can be inconsistent. An offline map ensures you won't get lost. :iphone:
Dog-friendly paradise
Great for dogs, but remember to bag and take waste with you. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy footwear
Trails can be muddy, especially after rain. Wellies or hiking boots are recommended! :athletic_shoe:
Pack a picnic
Enjoy the scenery with a packed lunch. Many spots offer stunning views. :sandwich:
Download offline maps
Trail markings can be inconsistent. An offline map ensures you won't get lost. :iphone:
Dog-friendly paradise
Great for dogs, but remember to bag and take waste with you. :dog:
Visit the bluebells
Springtime brings a stunning bluebell meadow, a must-see! :flower:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Mortimer Forest's stunning scenery, peaceful woodland walks, and the magical atmosphere, often comparing it to a 'Lord of the Rings' setting. The abundance of wildlife and the beauty of the bluebell meadows in spring are major highlights. However, a recurring negative point is the littering of dog poo bags, which detracts from the natural beauty and disappoints many visitors.
"Enjoyed a really nice woodland walk using the 2 mile red path, the place has amazing scenery and was very peaceful.
This is a woodland walk I would highly recommend.
I would have give 5 stars, but, the only disappointment was the amount of poo bags thrown or left behind by dog walkers, really pathetic that these owners bag them and then leave them scattered all over the forest.
Some blame need to lie with the staff running the site, they have a huge office and multiple cars so plenty of staff about, but nobody has found the time to put bins in to prevent dog owners leaving bags of poo all over."
John R
"A great forest to explore for a day out. There are paths and different routes to take. We parked at Vinnalls car park, it's a spacious car park and while there were a handful of cars, we barely saw any people - it wasn't overcrowded.
If you're taking a reactive dog out, the main paths are wide enough to make space.
Really enjoyed visiting and will come back again."
Laura Jurkeviciute
"Mortimer Forest is a gem — those rolling hills, the mix of conifers and ancient broadleaf trees, and that quiet sense that you’ve stepped back in time.
If you caught it on a sunny day, with the light breaking through the canopy and the air smelling faintly of pine and earth, I can see why you’d call it lovely. Even the wildlife there — deer, birds of prey, and the occasional squirrel on a mission — adds to the magic."
chad rafiq
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mortimer Forest is located on the Shropshire-Herefordshire border, near Ludlow. You can access it via various car parks, including Vinnalls Car Park and Whitcliffe Car Park. Many visitors arrive by car, with directions easily found using GPS. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended for ease of access.
Vinnalls Car Park is a popular choice, offering spacious parking and access to scenic routes. Whitcliffe Car Park is another option, particularly if you're looking for winter walks. Always check for any parking restrictions or fees before your visit.
Public transport to Mortimer Forest is quite limited. While buses may serve nearby towns like Ludlow, you'll likely need to arrange onward travel or a taxi to reach the forest itself. It's best to check local bus timetables for services to Ludlow.
Yes, Mortimer Forest has dedicated trails for mountain biking, making it a popular destination for cyclists. You can cycle to the forest, but be prepared for some steep inclines depending on your route.
The forest has a network of marked trails, including a 2-mile red path. However, some routes may not be clearly marked, so having an offline map on your phone or a physical map is advisable. Many visitors enjoy exploring without a strict plan, embracing the woodland atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Mortimer Forest is a public woodland and generally free to enter. There are no admission fees for walking or enjoying the natural beauty. Parking at designated car parks may incur a fee, so it's wise to check signage at the car park.
As a natural woodland, Mortimer Forest does not have set opening or closing hours. It is accessible at all times. However, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for Mortimer Forest. It's a natural attraction open to all. Simply turn up and explore!
The main restriction is to be respectful of the environment and wildlife. Dog owners must keep their dogs under control and clean up after them. Campfires are generally not permitted to prevent wildfires.
Absolutely! Mortimer Forest is perfect for a day trip, offering a variety of walking trails, picnic spots, and beautiful scenery. You can easily spend several hours exploring its diverse landscapes.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
Mortimer Forest offers a range of walks, from gentle, well-maintained paths to more challenging, unmarked routes. There's a popular 2-mile red path, and many visitors enjoy the scenic trails around Vinnalls and Whitcliffe. The terrain varies from flat woodland to steeper inclines.
Yes, Mortimer Forest is a haven for wildlife. You might spot deer roaming freely, various bird species including birds of prey, and squirrels. The diverse woodland ecosystem supports a rich array of fauna.
Mortimer Forest is very dog-friendly! It's a popular spot for dog walkers, with plenty of space for them to explore. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under control and to always clean up after them, as discarded poo bags are a significant issue.
Yes, there are numerous beautiful spots throughout Mortimer Forest perfect for a picnic. Many areas offer scenic views, making it an ideal place to enjoy a packed lunch.
Spring is wonderful for the bluebell meadows, while autumn offers stunning foliage. However, the forest is beautiful year-round, with each season bringing its own charm. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
📸 📸 Photography
Mortimer Forest offers fantastic photographic opportunities. The ancient woodland, misty mornings, and sweeping views from High Vinnalls are particularly photogenic. Look for light breaking through the canopy and the textures of moss-covered trees.
It's ideal for landscape, nature, and wildlife photography. The moody atmosphere, especially on a misty or rainy day, can create dramatic shots. It's also a great location for capturing forest trails and intimate woodland scenes.
Experiment with different times of day to capture varying light conditions. Use a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto lens for wildlife. Don't be afraid to get low to the ground to capture the forest floor details.
Many visitors use DSLRs or mirrorless cameras with versatile lenses, like the Sony Alpha A6000 with a 25mm F1.7 lens, as seen on Instagram. A polarizing filter can help manage light and enhance colors. Even smartphone cameras can capture stunning images.
While drone photography can offer unique perspectives, always check local regulations and guidelines regarding drone usage in natural areas. Be mindful of wildlife and other visitors. It's best to fly responsibly and ethically.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🚴 Mountain Bikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Mortimer Forest's Trails
For those seeking panoramic vistas, the trails around High Vinnalls are a must. These routes offer breathtaking views over the Teme Valley and the surrounding Shropshire countryside, making them ideal spots for a picnic or simply to soak in the scenery. The forest is also a popular destination for mountain bikers, with dedicated trails offering an exhilarating ride through the woodland.
When planning your route, consider downloading an offline map or using a GPS device, as trail markings can sometimes be inconsistent. This is especially helpful if you plan to venture off the main paths. The sheer scale and beauty of Mortimer Forest mean you can easily spend a full day exploring its many facets.
Wildlife and Nature in Mortimer Forest
The forest's atmosphere is often described as ethereal and enchanting, with mist weaving through the trees and the scent of pine and earth filling the air. In spring, the forest floor transforms into a stunning bluebell meadow, a truly spectacular sight that draws many visitors. This natural display is a highlight for many and a testament to the forest's preserved beauty.
Beyond the larger wildlife, the forest floor itself is a tapestry of flowers and earthy nature. Whether you're a keen birdwatcher, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone looking to connect with the natural world, Mortimer Forest offers a rewarding experience. Remember to tread lightly and respect the environment to help preserve it for future generations.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit