The 210 miles of the River Severn, the UK’s longest river, run from the heights of Plynlimon in mid-Wales down to the Bristol Channel at Severn Beach, through the historic counties of Shropshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire.

As well as a largely downhill walk through peaceful landscapes such as the superb Hafren Forest, easily accessible from the pretty towns along the route, the Severn Way, which follows its course, is also a packed with historical and geographical interest.

The Severn Way can take more than three weeks to walk. There is however, much to be said for tackling the Way over a number of visits. For example from the source at Plynlimon to Shrewsbury; Shrewsbury to Bridgenorth; Bridgenorth to Tewskesbury; Tewkesbury to Severn Beach,

Divided into four sections that correspond with the four main counties (Powys, Shropshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire) through which the River Severn flows, this guidebook offers all the information walkers need to make the most of their backpacking trip, from source to sea.