Ashford Bowdler

Settlement in Shropshire

England

Ashford Bowdler

Canoe tour, River Teme Certain cunning is required to operate in a country with archaic laws forbidding all sorts of activities that would be normal elsewhere (which is why I refuse to live in England). A previous landowner here had to fight off constant requests from other landowners to close the river. This was firmly resisted here as it was claimed that you could not own the flowing water.
There used to be a lot of traffic on the river but as access points to the river were blocked off (poor parking was a common complaint), this has become a rare sight. Even more unusual, as the water levels were very low. Lots of lining required I should imagine. — Canoe tour, River Teme Credit: Richard Webb

Ashford Bowdler is a small and picturesque village located in the county of Shropshire, England. Situated approximately four miles south of the market town of Ludlow, it is nestled in the beautiful countryside of the English-Welsh border region. With a population of around 200 residents, Ashford Bowdler is known for its tranquility and rural charm.

The village is characterized by its traditional stone cottages and historic buildings, which give it a distinct and timeless atmosphere. The centerpiece of the village is the St. Andrew's Church, a Grade II listed building that dates back to the 12th century. This stunning church boasts a unique architectural style and features several notable medieval elements.

Surrounded by rolling hills, Ashford Bowdler offers breathtaking views and ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The nearby Clee Hills, part of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, provide a stunning backdrop for hiking, cycling, and exploring the countryside. The village also benefits from its proximity to the River Teme, which offers opportunities for fishing and leisurely walks along its banks.

Despite its small size, Ashford Bowdler has a strong sense of community and a range of amenities. The village has a well-regarded primary school, a village hall, and a local pub that serves as a gathering place for residents and visitors alike.

Overall, Ashford Bowdler is a charming and idyllic village that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life. With its historic buildings, natural beauty, and welcoming community, it is a hidden gem in the heart of Shropshire.

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Ashford Bowdler Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.335416/-2.712391 or Grid Reference SO5171. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Canoe tour, River Teme

Certain cunning is required to operate in a country with archaic laws forbidding all sorts of activities that would be normal elsewhere (which is why I refuse to live in England). A previous landowner here had to fight off constant requests from other landowners to close the river. This was firmly resisted here as it was claimed that you could not own the flowing water. There used to be a lot of traffic on the river but as access points to the river were blocked off (poor parking was a common complaint), this has become a rare sight. Even more unusual, as the water levels were very low. Lots of lining required I should imagine.

Richard Webb

River Teme, The Ashfords

Looking upstream from within the water. The banks have been fenced off to prevent grazing or erosion by cattle. This is a major change and improvement in the management of the river.

Richard Webb

River Teme

Chub in shallow water on a sunny morning. They were taking the odd gulp of air to supplement the lower oxygen levels in the warmer water.

Richard Webb

River Teme, The Ashfords

Downstream view with normal Summer water levels.

Richard Webb

Weir, Barretts Mill

The ever decaying weir which was damaged by a collision with a tree in the 18th century and has been steadily collapsing ever since.

Richard Webb

Crowded skies

Sometime ago the air traffic lanes changed. Now a lot of transatlantic traffic passes over South Wales and Hereford. A morning view showing lots of contrails over Herefordshire and the Black Mountains. The River Teme is in the foreground.

Richard Webb

River Teme

An upstream view along one of the quieter stretches.

Richard Webb

River Teme

The river is always a green shade in Summer (unless its 2007 and flooding). The colour goes well with the electric hues of damsel flies. The dead tree is popular with another show off - kingfishers.

Richard Webb

Alder coppicing

Alder trees alongside the Teme are being cut back. This is part of the SSSI management, coppicing prevents large trees toppling into the river which can cause some spectacular erosion.

Richard Webb

River Teme by Barratt's Mill

Downstream of the ruined weir. Taken shortly before the trees were coppiced.

Richard Webb

River Teme, Barratt's Mill

There is a small wooded island here, just downstream of the weir.

Richard Webb

Exposed sandstone

You will see rock like this over in the Black Mountains, but it is rarely exposed on the plain. The sandstone alternates between a hard rock and then layers of crumbly marl. This makes the river rather dangerous as there are flat slabs of sandstone under the water which are then undercut, providing a place where currents can pin a body. This has been the cause of several drownings locally. The river was once deeper here as the photograph was taken from a weir. The weir was breached c. 1880 by a tree in a flood.

Richard Webb

A49 north of Woofferton

Colin Pyle

Park Lane, Richards Castle

MrC

New electricity pole

The 1967 version is being replaced.

Richard Webb

New electricity pole

The line went in in 1967 and now the poles are being replaced.

Richard Webb

Weir, Barratt's Mill

The weir was breached in a flood around 1880 and the gap has widened a lot in the last few years.

Richard Webb

Weir, Barratt's Mill

The Ashford Carbonel side of the breached weir, butted into a sandstone crag. The weir is deteriorating rapidly after first being breached in the 1880's.

Richard Webb

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Ashford Bowdler is located at Grid Ref: SO5171 (Lat: 52.335416, Lng: -2.712391)

Unitary Authority: Shropshire

Police Authority: West Mercia