Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses, Staffordshire — Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Shropshire & Staffordshire

Kinver Edge village trail

Explore this short route from the Rock Houses to historic Kinver village discovering oak woodlands, a scout camp, hidden footpaths and passing old homes built into the rocks. Enjoy the shops and cafes of Kinver village on this route that is waymarked on the ground by green arrows.

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Total steps: 5

Start point

Compton road, lay-by parking, grid ref: SO 83575 83631

Step 1

From the noticeboard, walk ahead and slightly to the left taking the path that passes round the back of the Rock Houses. Follow the green arrow. To your left is the back of the great rock into which the houses were carved, and as you pass it there are views over the Black Country. Keep the central undulating path through the lowest part of the woods, and pass through a gate.

Step 2

Descend towards a footpath crossroad. Turn left through a kissing gate into Astle's Rock Walk.

Step 3

At the foot of the Astle's Rock Walk, turn left onto Comber Road. After a few yards with the infant school in front of you, turn right onto The Compa.

Step 4

Pass the Scout Camp on your right, in a wooded valley full of adventure equipment. Take the footpath on the left.

Step 5

Pass through the gate, turning right onto Vicarage Drive.

Kinver village

As you walk down towards the High Street, you can again see St Peter's Church through the trees on your right. As the High Street comes into view, you will pass on your left the ornate former junior school that is now the community library. The High Street has shops, cafes, and the unmistakeable Millennium Bus Shelter. Kinver is an ancient market town, with many old buildings along the High Street and beyond. Here you can find a variety of shops and eateries. The River Stour runs along the back of the High Street, with the beautiful Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal following its course. In Edwardian times, Kinver was a popular day trip from the Black Country that was served by its own tram line.

End point

Millennium Bus Shelter, Kinver High Street, DY7 6HG.

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.

A longhorn cattle on the heath at Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses

Trail

Heathland trail

An easy circular walk through rare heathland habitat at Kinver Edge, with plenty of opportunities for taking in the views and spotting wildlife along the way.

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

01384872553

kinveredge@nationaltrust.org.uk

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Kinver Edge village trail

Total steps: 5