Clee Hills

The Clee Hills rise in southern Shropshire near Ludlow, forming the highest land east of the Urals until the Welsh Marches. Two main peaks dominate the range: Brown Clee Hill reaches 540 metres and Titterstone Clee Hill stands at 533 metres. The hills stretch for 24 kilometres north to south, with the lowest point just under 300 metres. A road between Ludlow and Bridgnorth runs between them, offering clear views of both summits. Quarrying has shaped the landscape, and radar towers crown each hilltop, visible for many miles. The hills mark the eastern edge of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Views from the Clee Hills cover eight counties and several mountain ranges. On clear days Snowdonia, the Brecon Beacons and the Peak District appear on the horizon. Wolverhampton’s Molineux stadium can be seen to the east, while the Severn Valley lies just beyond the western slopes. The hills were carved by glaciers in the last ice age and stand out above the surrounding countryside. In summer the green slopes attract walkers from the Black Country and beyond. Winter brings sudden blizzards that can close roads without warning. Wildlife thrives on the hills, with peregrines, kestrels and barn owls often spotted. Adders, rabbits and skylarks share the slopes, and rare birds such as woodchat shrike have been recorded. The village of Cleehill sits halfway up Titterstone Clee Hill between Ludlow and Cleobury Mortimer. The hills inspired A. E. Housman’s poem and Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael mysteries. Their unusual prominence even appears on the Hereford Mappa Mundi, making them a landmark in both landscape and culture.