Deriving from the Welsh Colunwy, it shares its very early Brythonic root with the two rivers Colne, in Lancashire and Essex, each of which has a town of the same name on its banks.

Clun was on the historic drove road where flocks and herds were driven from Wales to the markets in the Midlands and London.

[9] The town's name is taken from that of the River Clun (Welsh: Colunwy), which flows from west to east through the settlement.

Craven Arms, Bishop's Castle and Ludlow are the neighbouring Shropshire towns, and Knighton, which is in Wales, is 7 miles (11 km) to the south.

The town centre on the north bank of the River Clun lies 185 metres (607 ft) above sea level while the oldest part of the settlement, by St George's Church on the south bank, is a little more elevated, at 193 metres (633 ft).

In addition to Clun Bridge there is also a ford further downstream, at Waterloo, which has recently been made usable to most motor vehicles, A third crossing point, a footbridge just upstream of Clun Bridge, connects the town's main car park to the castle grounds.

It is said that the population of the town is now smaller than it was during the flourishing days of the wool trade in England centuries ago.

[13] The nave includes Norman columns, but the entire church apart from the tower was rebuilt extensively by the Victorian architect G. E. Street in 1877.

[14] Clun is a popular starting point for walkers who wish to explore the Shropshire Way, the Jack Mytton Way or the local circular walks.

On the Craven Arms Road there are a number of small businesses (mostly at "The Green Industrial Estate"), as well as the local fire station.

Renowned for its great nursery, the school is situated near the church where it holds its annual nativity and various festivals and plays, open to children and parents.

There are two community centres: the Memorial Hall (dedicated to local dead of both World Wars whose names are listed on boards indoors) in the north,[17] which hosts community events such as sports days and flicks in the sticks (regular showings of films and plays), and can also be rented out for weddings; and the Hightown Community Room, located in the south There is also a Youth Hostel at Clun Mill, just to the north of the town.

Local people of all ages flock to exhibit their marrows, Victoria sponges and flower arrangements in the show tent.

In terms of television, the town is covered by BBC Midlands Today and ITV News Central both broadcast from Birmingham.