This Lesser-known Region Has Been Called the 'Little Switzerland' of England-and It Has Quaint Towns and Gorgeous Walking Trails

"Flanked by the Welsh border and sprinkled with quaint villages and ancient forts, Shropshire's hills are a wonderful place for a serendipitous stroll. So the story goes, the Victorians referred to this quiet corner of England as "Little Switzerland." While that's being a tad generous to its blustery ridges-there are no snowcapped mountains here-Shropshire is an underrated delight. And it's not just spectacular walking you'll find here either."

"Shrewsbury is a great base for exploring Shropshire, and Drapers Hall is representative of the town's fascinating history. Set inside an immaculately preserved 15th-century Tudor building, this six-room boutique hotel looks every inch its roughly 500 years, especially its low oak beams and large stone fireplace. The half-timbered Wool Suite is particularly splendid, and having to duck your head to enter the bathroom only adds to its character."

"Located in the bucolic countryside just outside Ludlow, The Lodge is a beautiful 18th-century manor house-though its real charm is the hospitality shown by owner Arabella Salwey. Not only does she advise on how to walk the nearby Mortimer Forest, but she'll also cook dinner and breakfast. If you get in touch and book ahead, local charcutier Paul Faulkner will drop by and prepare a majestic venison dinner and discuss his passion for quality game (what he doesn't know about deer isn't worth knowing)."

Shropshire features rolling hills, quaint villages, ancient forts, and dramatic walking terrain that invites exploration. The region earned the nickname "Little Switzerland" despite lacking high mountains. Shrewsbury provides a historic base with boutique options like Drapers Hall, a preserved 15th-century Tudor building, while nearby Ludlow offers country manor hospitality at The Lodge with owner-hosted meals and local game dinners. Walking highlights include the heather-covered moorland and the Long Mynd plateau within Carding Mill Valley. Roman ruins and high-quality dining complement outdoor activities, creating a varied rural destination experience.

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