Lightspout Waterfall walk
This delightful walk starts at Carding Mill Valley at the heart of the Long Mynd and takes you on a sometimes challenging ascent to the picturesque Lightspout Waterfall. While following the stream to the 4-metre cascade, look out for interesting geological features, rare plants and enjoy an abundance of wildlife from stonechats to red kites.
Slippery near waterfall
Closer to the waterfall areas may become slippery due to the water.
Total steps: 9
Total steps: 9
Start point
Carding Mill Valley, grid ref: SO445945
Step 1
If you are starting from the Chalet Pavilion follow the stream uphill to the site of the former top car park (follow the green trail markers).
Step 2
Continue up the valley (following the green trail markers) on the stony track to the left side of the stream.
Step 3
When the valley divides 500 metres later, take the left-hand fork, up crude "pitched" stone steps into the narrow Lightspout Hollow.
Step 4
Rising above the stream, the rocky path snakes uphill around interlocking spurs before opening out, 500 metres on, below Lightspout Waterfall.
Step 5
Use the steep stone steps to the right of the waterfall, bear left at the top of the steps, and then continue to follow the stream.
Step 6
As the path splits bear right following the green trail arrows.
Step 7
As you reach the crest of the hill continue straight until you pick up another main, rocky path to descend.
Step 8
Follow this path (Mott's Road) as it winds down next to another stream.
Step 9
Once you have regained the main valley path, retrace your steps to return.
End point
Lightspout Waterfall, grid ref: SO431951
Trail map
More near here
The Burway Loop: a walk to the top of the Long Mynd
Take a challenging walk from Carding Mill Valley up to the highest point of the Long Mynd, which offers impressive views across Shropshire and beyond.
New Pool Hollow walk
This shorter walk through the valley ends with beautiful views of the reservoir and beyond.
The Pipe Walk at Carding Mill Valley
This walk is a great way to see some beautiful views and also to really get to the heart of 'those blue remembered hills', as mentioned in the poem by A E Housman.
The Long Mynd and Ratlinghope walk
A challenging 10-mile circular walk taking in both sides of the Long Mynd, with impressive views over Shropshire and a halfway stop at the pub for refreshments.
Get in touch
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
Outdoor activities at Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd
Enjoy the great outdoors at Carding Mill Valley and the Shropshire Hills. Find out about the best routes and keeping yourself safe while out walking and cycling on the Long Mynd.
Things to do at Carding Mill Valley on the Long Mynd
Explore the great outdoors at Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd. Enjoy a bracing walk, a challenging bike ride, a wild swim, have fun with the family or just take in the views.
Visiting Carding Mill Valley and the Shropshire Hills with your dog
Carding Mill Valley is a one pawprint rated place. Explore miles of footpaths and open countryside with your dog at Carding Mill Valley and the Shropshire Hills. Find out how to keep the wildlife and your dog safe on your visit.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Learn about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor. Find out how they help us care for precious places and the exclusive discount available for National Trust supporters.
Staying safe at National Trust places
The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Walking in Shropshire and Staffordshire
Find out about the best walking routes around Shropshire and Staffordshire, including gardens, parkland and estates, ideal for family walks.
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.