A longhorn cattle on the heath at Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses — Look out for longhorn cattle | © National Trust Images

Shropshire & Staffordshire

Heathland trail

This circular walk starts at the old Warden's Lodge, passing through rare heathland habitat to sweeping views from the Iron Age hillfort. It is waymarked on the ground by red arrows.

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Total steps: 4

Start point

Comber Road lay-by parking, SO838828

Step 1

Bear left of the noticeboard, following the red arrows. After passing between the trees, you will enter sandy heathland habitat with a meadow on the left of the fence. Keep following the sandy path.

Step 2

Turn right when you reach the top of the Edge, and follow the red arrows as you go through the gate and walk along the top of the sandstone ridge. Look out for resting spots with views over the countryside to your left.

Step 3

You will reach the open area of the Iron Age hillfort, with a toposcope showing the direction of surrounding landmarks.

Iron Age hillfort

This hillfort dates back to at least Iron Age times, and has impressive ramparts and outer ditch along the south-west and south-east sides. The remaining sides enjoy the natural defences of steep banks, and sweeping views across three counties. The hillfort sits on a historic county border and would have been an important trading post as well as having a defensive role. It is a scheduled ancient monument and kept deliberately clear of vegetation to protect and showcase the dramatic ramparts.

Step 4

From the toposcope, turn around and head across the hillfort, towards the ramparts and down the slope. Follow the red arrows to return towards the Warden's House across the open grassland.

Acid grassland

The grassland here is regularly trampled by many walkers, and has only thin nutrient-poor soil to grow on, but this doesn't mean it is a poor habitat. Kneel down and peer closely, and you'll see many different species of plants growing together beneath your feet. You're sure to spot the holes of solitary wasps and bees that burrow down into the ground - you might even hear their lively buzz.

End point

Comber Road noticeboard, SO838828

Trail map

A visitor in the distance seen through a rock doorway exploring the red rock formations at Kinver Edge

Trail

Centenary trail

Discover two very different Rock Houses on this trail - one restored and another hidden in the trees - as you walk through woodland and heathland habitats.

Bench with views from Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses, Staffordshire. High sandstone ridge and hill fort overlooking dramatic red sandstone rock houses.

Trail

Woodland trail

Follow this family-friendly walking trail at Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses. You'll walk through woodland, enjoy natural play areas and finish off with far-reaching views from the hillfort.

Holy Austin Rock Houses, Compton Road, Kinver, near Stourbridge, Staffordshire, DY7 6DL

01384872553

kinveredge@nationaltrust.org.uk

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Heathland trail

Total steps: 4