VISIT Herefordshire has launched a new in-depth visitors guide to the Mortimer Trail, the 30 mile linear walking trail which explores the English and Welsh borderlands and is a particularly enticing way for walkers to enjoy the dramatic autumn landscapes.

In addition, the campaign sees the introduction of a new initiative, the Mortimer Trail Challenge, with a launch event inviting hikers and trail runners to tackle the ‘trail in a day’ in October.

The trail runs between Kington in north west Herefordshire and Ludlow just over the border in Shropshire to the north east and can be easily walked in anything between two or five days in either direction. The autumn colours are particularly stunning on this trail in October and November and a visit to Hergest Croft Gardens in Kington can be incorporated featuring the National Collection of Maples which offer a fiery blaze.

This trail is so called as it runs through the heart of the ancient lands of the then ambitious Mortimer family, holders of the most powerful of the Norman earldoms and follows the legacy of past conflicts in this area over a succession of hills, ridges and valleys.

It passes through areas rich in history featuring dramatic Iron Age hill-forts such as Croft Ambrey set on a 300-metre high ridge to the north of Croft Castle, as well as ruined castles, ancient woodland meandering across landscapes touched by the three rivers of the Teme, the Arrow and Lugg.

There are impressive views out to the Black Mountains, Radnor Hills and the Malverns as well as villages and abundant wildlife to be enjoyed.

The trail can be arranged independently with downloadable maps and tips on how best to organise a visit included in the new online guide with recommendations on where to stay, eat and drink along the way. Walking is moderate with several steep climbs and stunning scenery to enjoy the impressive autumn colours, as well as good food, real ales and ciders and providing atmospheric overnight stops in pretty villages such as Titley and Aymestery.

Alternatively Wheely Wonderful, a locally based walking specialist, offers the Mortimer Trail as a four night and three day self guided trip conveniently organising all transfers including parking and luggage porterage between stops.