About the Stiperstones

A series of outcrops on a rocky chine in Shropshire, the Stiperstones were formed during the last Ice Age. Comprised of Ordovician, or ‘Stiperstones Quartzite’, this rock was shattered and broken over time, transforming the surrounds into the jagged, undulating landscape of today. A site of national geological significance, it is an extraordinary example of the power of Mother Nature and one that still draws geologists from near and far.

While once engulfed by planted conifers, the reserve was taken over by the Shropshire Wildlife Trust and Natural England in the 1960s and restored to its original heathland. Today, most of the conifers have gone and instead have been replaced with the heath’s native, purple-topped heather and scrub – the favourite home of red grouse, curlew, skylark, grayling butterflies and emperor moths. Strewn with rost-shattered quartzite boulders and capped with craggy tors, it certainly is in the running as Shropshire’s wildest realm.

Wildlife in the Reserve

A haven for a wide variety of local wildlife and a real attraction for nature-lovers, the rugged façade of the Stiperstones National Nature Reserve belies an important sanctuary for many species. Starting with the smallest residents of the reserve, the keen-eyed among you will be able to spot hairy wood ants, green hairstreak butterflies and emperor moths. A little larger but even more secretive, you may also be able to catch a glimpse of the UK’s native common lizards who live in the reserve, bathing on a sun-soaked terrace or skitting across the path. As for birdlife, feathered-faces include those of red grouse, red kite, skylark, redstarts, raven, and stonechat. 

The Stiperstones Walks

One of the best walks in the area, the Stiperstones Circular Route is a 5-mile looped trail, starting and ending near the Stiperstones National Nature Reserve Knolls car park. A relatively easy trail with well-used public access, this popular romp takes in the sights and surrounds and is a great way to get to know the area on foot. That said, there are also a number of shorter routes including the Stiperstones easy access trail. An all-ability trail with a broad, fairly level and well-surfaced track, this path runs along the southern edge of the reserve for around 500 metres and has plenty of viewpoints and rest stops along the way.