The Ercall - Image 1
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The Ercall Shropshire

4.7
·22 reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Vibrant colors, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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The Ercall - Image 1

The Ercall Shropshire

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Vibrant colors, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(22 reviews)

"Wow what a walk and the views were outstanding. Highly recommend for lovers of walking and green wild views."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Summit Views

Panoramic Summit Views

Summit

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

Dramatic Quarry Faces

Dramatic Quarry Faces

Various quarry locations

Explore the striking, sheer faces of defunct quarries, showcasing fascinating geology.

Autumnal Woodland Colors

Autumnal Woodland Colors

Woodland trails

Immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of autumn on peaceful woodland walks.

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Planning Your Visit

Tackle the Terrain

The Ercall offers rewarding views but can be challenging. Steep, uneven paths and muddy sections are common, especially after rain. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe hike. Consider the terrain before bringing strollers or for those with mobility concerns.

Timing is Key for Views

While beautiful year-round, the Ercall's charm shines brightest during autumn for its rich colors. Weekends can get busy, so aim for weekdays if you prefer a more peaceful experience. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light for photography and fewer crowds.

Best Times

When
Autumn mornings
Why
Vibrant colors, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Peaceful walks, good light
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend late afternoons
Why
Golden hour, thinning crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#fyp #viral #telford #ercallwood #foryou #foryoupage #school
@ercallwoodie
559 likes • 18.4K views

👟 Wear Sturdy Boots

Paths get very muddy, especially in winter. Waterproof, grippy boots are a must! Reddit

🗺️ Follow Yellow Route

For a clearer path to the summit, start on Golf Course Road and follow the yellow route, keeping right. Reddit

🧺 Picnic in the Woods

Enjoy a scenic break with a picnic amidst the peaceful woodlands. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails

Well-behaved dogs are welcome, just remember to clean up after them. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Boots

Paths get very muddy, especially in winter. Waterproof, grippy boots are a must! Reddit

🗺️ Follow Yellow Route

For a clearer path to the summit, start on Golf Course Road and follow the yellow route, keeping right. Reddit

🧺 Picnic in the Woods

Enjoy a scenic break with a picnic amidst the peaceful woodlands. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails

Well-behaved dogs are welcome, just remember to clean up after them. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The summit offers stunning panoramic views perfect for photography. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(22 reviews)

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

Outstanding views
Picturesque walks
Less crowded

What People Dislike

Steep and muddy paths
Can be tiring

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit

You can expect outstanding panoramic views of the surrounding Shropshire countryside, including the prominent Wrekin hill. The quarry faces also offer unique geological sights. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons, during the 'golden hours,' provide softer light and can enhance the colors of the landscape, especially during autumn. Reddit

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. Reddit

Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon) will significantly reduce the number of people in your shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Ercall can be a fantastic adventure for families, but requires some planning. While the steep and muddy paths can be tiring, children often find the challenge exciting and rewarding. Reddit Consider bringing a carrier for very young children and ensure everyone has appropriate footwear. Reddit A picnic in the woods is a perfect way to break up the climb and enjoy the scenery. Reddit The unique quarry landscapes offer a sense of exploration, and the summit views are a great motivator for little legs. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on site.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

For those who love a good hike and appreciate natural beauty, The Ercall is a gem. The challenging terrain offers a satisfying workout, and the outstanding views from the summit are a significant draw. Reddit Unlike its more famous neighbor, The Wrekin, The Ercall often provides a less crowded experience, allowing for a more peaceful immersion in nature. Reddit The picturesque walks through woodlands and the dramatic quarry formations add to its appeal. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery, especially during autumn when the colors are at their peak. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

The Ercall is a dog-friendly destination, making it ideal for owners who want to explore with their canine companions. The varied trails offer plenty of sniffing opportunities and exercise. Reddit It's crucial to keep dogs under control and to clean up after them diligently, as there are bins provided. Reddit Be mindful that the terrain can be challenging for dogs too, especially if it's muddy or steep, so ensure your dog is fit for the walk. The open spaces and woodlands provide a great environment for dogs to enjoy.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating The Ercall's Trails

The Ercall's trail network offers a rewarding hiking experience, but it's important to be prepared. Many paths are steep and uneven, carved through woodlands and around old quarry sites. Mud is a frequent companion, especially during wetter months, making sturdy, waterproof footwear absolutely essential. Reddit While some routes are more defined, others can be less clear, so having a map or using a GPS app can be beneficial. A popular and often recommended route starts from Golf Course Road, where following the yellow route and keeping to the right is advised for a more direct ascent to the summit. Reddit

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. TikTok 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. Reddit

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

The Ercall is a fascinating site not just for its natural beauty but also for its geological significance. The area is characterized by its defunct quarries, which reveal the underlying rock formations and tell a story of past industrial activity. These quarries, with their dramatic sheer faces, are a key feature that sets The Ercall apart from its larger neighbor, The Wrekin. Reddit

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.

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