Walking the Severn Way

Discover the Severn Way, a 215-mile (344km) journey that follows the course of the UK’s longest river from the wild heights of Plynlimon plateau in mid-Wales, through the superb landscapes of Powys, Shropshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire, including the tranquil Hafren Forest, before reaching the Bristol Channel at Severn Beach. Ideal for walkers with long-distance walking experience, the Severn Way’s official route is divided into 22 manageable daily stages, with options to tailor the walk to your ability and timeframe. The comprehensive Cicerone guidebook allows for flexible itineraries, whether you wish to complete the route over three weeks, walk shorter sections, or explore day walks and route variants, including a scenic variant start over Plynlimon and an onward ‘Bristol Link’ into the city centre. Explore a rich tapestry of history and geography as you follow the River Severn’s path, visiting lively market towns and villages such as Llanidloes, Welshpool, Shrewsbury, Ironbridge, Worcester, and Gloucester. The route weaves together threads of trade, commerce, civil war, and the lives of ordinary folk, finishing at Severn Beach or continuing onward on the Bristol Link to the heart of Bristol.Enjoy the River Severn’s unspoilt scenery and abundant historic interest, from ancient river crossings and industrial heritage to peaceful woodlands and meadows. Along the way, you’ll find welcoming pubs and tea rooms, as well as opportunities to discover the region’s unique hospitality and character.The Severn Way can be walked throughout the year, but the best time is between May and September, when the landscapes are at their most vibrant. Each stage includes detailed guidance, with advice on tackling longer stretches, riverside walking, and hilly terrain.Each section features a detailed route summary table with start and finish points, distances, ascent and descent, and practical advice on accommodation, public transport, and facilities at key locations including Llanidloes, Newtown, Shrewsbury, Ironbridge, Worcester, Tewkesbury, Gloucester Docks, and Severn Beach.Navigate the Severn Way confidently with Ordnance Survey 1:50,000 maps, featuring clear overlays that show each stage of the route.Discover the varied wildlife and habitats of the Severn Valley and surrounding countryside, from woodland birds in the upper reaches to a wealth of wetland and riverbank species further south. Points of interest are highlighted in each section to help you make the most of your visits along the way. Plan your Severn Way adventure with confidence and immerse yourself in the history and landscapes along Britain’s longest river, with the comprehensive support of the Cicerone guidebook.