The Ercall Shropshire
Challenging hill walk with stunning panoramic views and unique quarry geology, offering a peaceful escape into nature.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant colors, fewer crowds
The Ercall Shropshire
Best Time
Vibrant colors, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Challenging hill walk with stunning panoramic views and unique quarry geology, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
"Wow what a walk and the views were outstanding. Highly recommend for lovers of walking and green wild views."
👟 Wear Sturdy Boots
Paths get very muddy, especially in winter. Waterproof, grippy boots are a must!
🗺️ Follow Yellow Route
For a clearer path to the summit, start on Golf Course Road and follow the yellow route, keeping right.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Summit Views
Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Shropshire, including the iconic Wrekin. A true reward after the climb.

Dramatic Quarry Faces
Various quarry locations
Explore the striking, sheer faces of defunct quarries, showcasing fascinating geology.

Autumnal Woodland Colors
Woodland trails
Immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of autumn on peaceful woodland walks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tackle the Terrain
Timing is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Boots
Paths get very muddy, especially in winter. Waterproof, grippy boots are a must!
🗺️ Follow Yellow Route
For a clearer path to the summit, start on Golf Course Road and follow the yellow route, keeping right.
🧺 Picnic in the Woods
Enjoy a scenic break with a picnic amidst the peaceful woodlands.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, just remember to clean up after them.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Boots
Paths get very muddy, especially in winter. Waterproof, grippy boots are a must!
🗺️ Follow Yellow Route
For a clearer path to the summit, start on Golf Course Road and follow the yellow route, keeping right.
🧺 Picnic in the Woods
Enjoy a scenic break with a picnic amidst the peaceful woodlands.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, just remember to clean up after them.
📸 Capture the Views
The summit offers stunning panoramic views perfect for photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise The Ercall for its outstanding views and picturesque walks, noting it's a rewarding challenge for hikers. While the terrain can be steep and muddy, many find it less crowded than nearby attractions and appreciate the unique quarry geology. It's a great spot for families and dog walkers prepared for the conditions.
"Not for anyone with mobility issues but wow what a walk and the views were outstanding. We visited as a family of 5 with 3 children aged 3, 4 and 11. My husband and I felt the steep walking, felt good but very tiring. But our three girls' loved it and didn't complain once. We enjoyed a picnic in the woods half way to the top. Recommend to anyone who loves walking and beautiful green wild views."
Hairy Coo
"Amazing views and great walks. Overshadowed by the Wrekin which is bigger (higher), but the walks are much more picturesque around the Ercall and much less people in our experience. The sheer faces of the quarry are worth taking a look at."
Steven Davies
"Beautiful scenery and amazing geology. Fantastic day out if you enjoy walking but I can get very muddy so wear some good boots"
Christian Edmunds
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ercall is accessible via several routes. A common starting point is from the Golf Course Road near the M54 bridge. You can also access it from other nearby parking areas. Consider using a map app for precise navigation to your chosen trailhead.
Parking is available at various points around The Ercall, including near the Golf Course Road. Availability can vary, especially on busy weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Public transport options to the immediate vicinity of The Ercall might be limited. It's best to check local bus routes and schedules for Telford or surrounding areas. Driving is generally the most convenient way to access the nature reserve.
While some trails are marked, they can be less clear in places. Following the yellow route from Golf Course Road is often recommended for a more direct ascent. Using a trail map or GPS app can be helpful.
The Ercall is primarily a walking and hiking destination. While some wider paths might be suitable for mountain biking, many trails are steep and uneven, making them less ideal for cycling.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, The Ercall is a nature reserve and is free to enter. There are no admission fees required to explore its trails and enjoy the scenery.
The Ercall is open to the public year-round during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times, allowing for flexible visits.
There is no entrance fee for The Ercall. It's a public access area managed as a nature reserve, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy.
Yes, you can visit The Ercall at any time during daylight hours. It's recommended to plan your visit to allow ample time for hiking and enjoying the views before dusk.
The main restriction is to respect the nature reserve. Visitors are asked to stay on marked paths where possible, not to disturb wildlife, and to take all litter home with them.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The walks at The Ercall can be challenging. They involve steep, uneven terrain and can become very muddy, especially in wet weather. It's not recommended for those with significant mobility issues.
You can expect outstanding panoramic views of the surrounding Shropshire countryside, including the prominent Wrekin hill. The quarry faces also offer unique geological sights.
Families with young children can enjoy The Ercall, but be prepared for the steep and potentially muddy paths. Younger children might need assistance or carrying on certain sections. A picnic in the woods can be a great break.
There are no dedicated facilities such as toilets or cafes directly within The Ercall nature reserve. Visitors should come prepared with water and snacks.
The Ercall is a nature reserve, so you might encounter various woodland birds and small mammals. The diverse habitats also support interesting insect life.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers the most expansive panoramic views, ideal for landscape photography. The dramatic quarry faces also provide unique photographic opportunities, showcasing the area's geology.
Early mornings and late afternoons, during the 'golden hours,' provide softer light and can enhance the colors of the landscape, especially during autumn.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views from the summit. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or capturing detail in the quarry areas.
Beyond the landscapes, look for interesting textures in the quarry rocks, woodland details, and any wildlife you might encounter. The changing seasons also offer distinct photographic themes.
Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon) will significantly reduce the number of people in your shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating The Ercall's Trails
For those with mobility concerns or who prefer a gentler walk, The Ercall might present challenges. However, the woodland sections offer a more accessible experience, and many visitors enjoy a picnic halfway up, making it a family-friendly adventure with the right preparation. The sheer faces of the defunct quarries are a unique geological feature and a point of interest for many visitors, offering a glimpse into the area's industrial past.
Remember that The Ercall is a natural reserve, so sticking to paths where possible helps preserve the environment. The beauty of the Ercall lies in its wildness, so embrace the natural terrain and enjoy the journey to its scenic viewpoints.
Geology and History of The Ercall
Historically, the landscape has been shaped by both natural processes and human intervention. The presence of quarries indicates a history of resource extraction, though the exact nature and period of this activity are less documented in general visitor information. The reserve now serves as a protected area, allowing nature to reclaim and blend with the remnants of its industrial past. This creates a unique environment where visitors can appreciate both the natural scenery and the echoes of history.
Exploring The Ercall offers a chance to connect with the earth's history through its visible geological features. The varied terrain, from woodlands to quarry edges, provides a diverse landscape that is both visually striking and ecologically important. It’s a place where the raw beauty of nature meets the subtle imprint of human endeavor.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit