Centenary trail
This longer walk takes in all aspects of the Edge, from the heathland buzzing with wildlife to leafy woodland paths with children's natural play areas. It takes in two different rock house complexes that you can explore, and spectacular views. This ramble crosses the county boundary from Staffordshire to Worcestershire and back again. Cyclists can enjoy this trail too.
Start point
Compton Road lay-by parking, SO 83575 83631Trail information
Difficulty
Full trail
DistanceMiles: 4 (km: 6.4)Total stages: 5
Total stages: 5
Start point
Compton Road lay-by parking, SO 83575 83631
Stage 1
From the noticeboard, turn right across the sandy area and take the uphill path into the woods, waymarked with a purple arrow. Keep following the purple waymarkers straight over the crossroads and past the children's natural play areas.
Stage 2
At the five-ways crossroads follow the arrow to Nanny's Rock. There is a short, steep descent here.
Discover the red sandstone rock of Kinver Edge | © National Trust Images Stage 3
As the landscape opens out into heathland on your right, you may be able to spy Vale's Rock through the trees on your left-hand side. Continue following the purple arrows and you will return to woodland, climbing up to the top of the Edge. Spectacular views emerge from gaps in the trees on your left, and mature heathland sweeps across your right.
Look out for longhorn cattle | © National Trust Images Stage 4
When you reach the toposcope on the hillfort, turn around to head down the slope towards the ramparts, following the purple arrows. As you approach the Warden's Lodge you will cross short grassland, and have a final view of the heath from below. Head down into the woods on your left at the war memorial. This woodland path is full of bluebells in spring, and has places to stop and rest.
Stage 5
Continue down the slope to approach the restored Rock Houses. Go on for a further couple of minutes and you will return to the car park, which is signed from the Rock House tea-rooms.
End point
Compton Road noticeboard, SO 83575 83631
Trail map
Centenary trail route | © Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey
More near here
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.
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.
Get in touch
Holy Austin Rock Houses, Compton Road, Kinver, near Stourbridge, Staffordshire, DY7 6DL
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