The longest riverside path in Britain

The River Severn, known in Wales as Afon Hafren, is one of the finest rivers in the land. At around 210 miles (338 km) it is certainly the longest. The river itself has shaped and moulded both the history and the scenery through which it flows. It is the combination of the contrasting settlements along the river, the castle towns, rural hamlets, market centres, inland ports and cathedral cities together with the diverse landscapes of mountain and saltmarsh,gorge and forest which make the Severn Way unique.

The pure waters of the river support almost all native species of freshwater fish, whilst the many mammals,birds and other wildlife make the valley a paradise for nature lovers. The headwaters are the realm of the salmon and that remarkable bird the dipper. Overhead you may catch glimpses of goshawks, red kite and peregrines. Further downstream mink, otters and elvers are found,whilst on the estuary is the famous Slimbridge Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust Reserve.

From the Welsh mountains to the Cotswolds

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.

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.

A unique walking experience

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.

Explore the Severn Way - Britain at its best.