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Walking along the River Severn

The Severn Way is the longest riverside footpath in Britain, marked along the route of the Severn from its source at Plynlimon to the sea at Bristol. From the Welsh mountains, through Shropshire and Worcestershire, to the flatlands of the Severn estuary, the scenery is constantly variable and takes in some of the most beautiful parts of the country.

Throughout its length the Severn Way benefits from contrasting landscapes. There's the spectacular gorge downstream of Ironbridge, clothed in hanging woodlands, or the tiny hamlets of the now drained estuary marshlands, isolated at the end of winding no through roads, or the bridging-point villages and towns between Stourport and Tewkesbury, framed by the Malverns and Cotswolds.

Following the route

Walking the Severn Way can be as challenging or relaxing as you wish it to be. The river falls well over 1,500 feet (470m) during its first dozen or so miles. The Severn Way reflects this descent with steep paths and scrambles beside waterfalls leading down to forest tracks in Hafren Forest. In total contrast is the peaceful, easy walking along the stretch of towpath of the old Montgomeryshire Canal, with idyllic miles interspersed with waterside pubs and unspoilt villages.

The Severn Way does not simply follow riverside paths but is routed to help the walker make the most of the countryside. In mid-Wales, for example, bridleways and paths are used to follow tributary valleys or climb to ridgetop view points, adding a fresh aspect to the Way. Much of the route outside the larger settlements is on quiet paths and tracks well away from public roads and motor traffic.

The Severn Way is in mountain country between the source and Llanidloes. From Llanidloes to the sea the route encounters gentler countryside, but walking boots or stout shoes are still the sensible option. The vagaries of the climate mean waterproofs and a warm sweater are also advisable for much of the year.

The lower, tidal stretches of the Severn Way below Gloucester should also be treated with respect. Avoid walking onto the mud and sand banks at low tide: they conceal deep channels, hidden gulleys and quicksand. Always take sensible precautions, leaving yourself free to enjoy to the full the marvellous countryside and heritage along the walk.

Fit, healthy and experienced walkers accustomed to long days of walking will encounter no difficulty in tackling the Severn Way, but it would be foolish even to think about setting off if you have not previously done any extended walking or had to carry a heavy pack. Getting yourself into condition is neither an arduous nor an unpleasant process, and every walk you do in preparation will make your experience and enjoyment of the Way all the better.

The Severn Way is waymarked throughout its length. However, work to standardise this is on-going and waymarks are susceptible to floods and vandalism.

More information

You can find much more information on the official Severn Way website, www.severnway.com. You might also find it useful to purchase a guidebook, either from the website or from shops along the route. The path is also marked on Ordnance Survey maps and on Waterscape.com's online mapping.