Kinver Edge and Rock Houses
Explore unique sandstone rock houses inhabited until the 1960s, set amidst beautiful woodlands with an ancient hillfort.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Kinver Edge and Rock Houses
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore unique sandstone rock houses inhabited until the 1960s, set amidst beautiful woodlands with an ancient hillfort.
"A small NT property with amazing staff and volunteers. It is a very unusual place."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails can be hilly and uneven, so sturdy walking shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Check Cafe Hours
The cafe and visitor centre can close early, especially on weekends. Visit first if you want tea and cake! :coffee:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Restored Rock Houses
Holy Austin Rock
Step back in time in these unique cave dwellings carved into sandstone, inhabited until the 1960s.
Kinver Edge Hillfort
Summit of Kinver Edge
Explore the remnants of an Iron Age hillfort offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Woodland Trails
Various paths across Kinver Edge
Wander through beautiful woodlands with clearly marked paths, perfect for a family stroll or a longer hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
National Trust Membership & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails can be hilly and uneven, so sturdy walking shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Check Cafe Hours
The cafe and visitor centre can close early, especially on weekends. Visit first if you want tea and cake! :coffee:
Explore All Levels
The rock houses are spread across different levels, so take your time to discover each unique dwelling. :housewithgarden:
Bring Water & Snacks
Especially if you plan on tackling the longer walks, having refreshments on hand is a good idea. :apple:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails can be hilly and uneven, so sturdy walking shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Check Cafe Hours
The cafe and visitor centre can close early, especially on weekends. Visit first if you want tea and cake! :coffee:
Explore All Levels
The rock houses are spread across different levels, so take your time to discover each unique dwelling. :housewithgarden:
Bring Water & Snacks
Especially if you plan on tackling the longer walks, having refreshments on hand is a good idea. :apple:
Dog-Friendly Trails
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the trails, making it a great spot for a family outing with pets. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kinver Edge for its unique historical rock houses and beautiful woodland walks. The friendly and informative staff are a highlight, enhancing the experience of learning about the dwellings' past. While parking can be a challenge on busy days, the overall atmosphere and scenic beauty make it a highly recommended destination for a day out.
"Absolutely beautiful pieces of history here. So well kept and well restored. Fascinating place to see and hear how people made homes out of rocks in this hill. And beautiful views of you walk up to the old iron age fort. National trust members enter for free! It's only access to the rock houses that need paying for the rest of the area is free to explore, and there are beautiful real old rock houses in the free areas to explore!"
S M
"Saw this on George Clarke’s National Trust unlocked and wanted to visit. Very helpful guides on site, 2 cave homes on the bottom level unconverted caves on the mid level and what now resembles terraced housing on the top level has even had a mortgage on this portion provided by the Halifax building society.
Definately worth a visit and there are surrounding walks with further caves such as Nanny’s Rock. Also please see the loaf of bread on the table in the parlour with George Clarkes signature on the underside….enjoy"
Lynn Mumford
"Very interesting to walk around the rock houses and learn of their past from the super friendly team. Lovely sunny day to enjoy the views, tea and cake at the tea rooms, before an uphill walk to the hill fort site. All walkways clearly marked, we'll definitely be back to explore again."
Nigel Roberts-Green
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kinver Edge is located near Stourbridge. You can reach it by car, with public parking available nearby. For public transport, local bus services run to Kinver village, followed by a walk to the site.
There isn't dedicated National Trust parking directly at the site. Public parking is available, but it can fill up quickly on busy days, especially weekends. Arriving early is recommended.
Cycling is a great way to reach Kinver Edge, with various routes through the countryside. Secure your bike appropriately once you arrive.
The rock houses are accessed via walking trails from the visitor centre area. Some paths can be steep and uneven, so comfortable footwear is essential.
Due to the natural terrain and steps within the rock houses, full accessibility for wheelchairs and pushchairs can be challenging. Some main paths are manageable, but exploring the rock houses themselves may require assistance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an admission fee for the National Trust site which includes access to the restored rock houses. National Trust members get free entry.
Admission fees vary, but a typical adult ticket is around £8.50. It's always best to check the official National Trust website for the most current pricing.
You can walk around Kinver Edge and enjoy the hillfort and woodland trails without paying for the rock house entry. However, to explore the restored dwellings, admission is required.
National Trust members get free entry. Look out for potential family tickets or group discounts on the National Trust website.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the National Trust's official website for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the unique rock houses, hike to the Iron Age hillfort for views, and enjoy woodland walks. There's also a cafe and visitor centre.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the rock houses, the hillfort, and enjoy a walk. Some visitors spend longer if they do extended hikes.
Yes, dogs are welcome on the walking trails at Kinver Edge, provided they are kept under control.
These sandstone dwellings were inhabited from the late 18th century until the 1960s, making them Britain's last occupied cave dwellings.
Yes, there is a cafe at Kinver Edge where you can enjoy refreshments, including tea and cake.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique architecture of the rock houses, the panoramic views from the hillfort, and the atmospheric woodland paths. The restored interiors also offer great shots.
Photography is generally allowed inside the rock houses, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash if it might disturb the historical setting.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light for landscape and architectural photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing details.
As a National Trust property, drone usage is typically restricted to protect the wildlife and historical integrity of the site. Always check specific site rules.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the rock houses and expansive views. A standard zoom lens is versatile for trails and details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The woodland trails are perfect for little legs to explore, and the chance to climb up to the hillfort offers a sense of accomplishment and great views. Tips for families:
* Wear sturdy shoes: The paths can be uneven and hilly.
* Pack snacks and drinks: Keep energy levels up during your explorations.
* Visit the cafe: A treat at the cafe can be a great motivator for kids.
* Engage with staff: National Trust volunteers are often happy to share stories about the rock houses, making it more interactive for children.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
The woodlands are beautiful throughout the year, offering a tranquil escape. Hiking highlights:
* Explore the different routes: From short loops to longer treks, there's a trail for every fitness level.
* Enjoy the views: The summit of the hillfort offers expansive vistas of the surrounding countryside.
* Discover the rock houses: Integrate a visit to the historical dwellings into your hike for a unique cultural element.
* Consider the Centenary Walk: This 2-hour trail is a popular option for a good overview of the area.
📸 Photographers
Capturing the interiors, with their restored features, provides a glimpse into a bygone era. Beyond the dwellings, the woodland trails offer atmospheric shots with dappled light filtering through the trees. The hillfort at the summit provides opportunities for sweeping landscape photography, showcasing the rolling countryside.
Remember to bring a wide-angle lens for those expansive views and a standard zoom for details. Be mindful of the weather, as dramatic skies can add to the mood of your photographs. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fascinating History of the Rock Houses
+1 This makes them some of the last cave-like homes to be occupied in England. The National Trust has undertaken significant restoration work to preserve these historical sites and offer visitors a glimpse into the lives of those who called them home. +1Life in the rock houses was simple yet resourceful. Residents adapted the natural caves, adding windows, doors, and chimneys to create functional living spaces. Some accounts mention residents serving tea to visitors, highlighting a unique aspect of their community life. The restoration efforts have brought back the character of these dwellings, allowing visitors to imagine the daily routines and challenges faced by the inhabitants.
The site also boasts an Iron Age hillfort on its summit, indicating human presence in the area for thousands of years prior to the rock houses being inhabited. Exploring the rock houses is like stepping into a living museum. Each dwelling offers a different perspective on how people adapted to their environment. The Holy Austin Rock houses are particularly well-preserved and restored, showcasing what life might have been like in the 1930s.
The combination of natural landscape and human ingenuity makes Kinver Edge a truly special place to visit.Exploring the Trails and Views
At the top of Kinver Edge, you'll find the remnants of an Iron Age hillfort. While not as prominent as some other hillforts, it provides a sense of the area's ancient past and offers rewarding panoramic views across the Staffordshire countryside.
On a clear day, you can see for miles, making the climb well worth the effort. The varied terrain means some paths can be steep and uneven, so wearing appropriate footwear is highly recommended. Many visitors, including families with children and dog owners, find Kinver Edge to be an ideal destination for a day out. The combination of historical interest, natural beauty, and accessible walking routes makes it a versatile attraction. The opportunity to explore the rock houses and then enjoy a scenic walk provides a well-rounded experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit