Church Stretton Town Centre
Church Stretton Town Centre
Highlight • Settlement
Church Stretton Town Centre
Cycling
5.0
(61)
Hiking
5.0
(3)
Road cycling
5.0
(2)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
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Shropshire Hills National Landscape
Tips
October 22, 2023
Cycling
August 16, 2019
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Church Stretton Town Centre
5.0
(1)
28
riders
42.6km
03:02
750m
750m
Embark on the Pole Bank loop from Church Stretton, a challenging touring bicycle ride through the Shropshire Hills National Landscape. This 26.5 miles (42.6 km) route, with a significant 2454 feet (748 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 3 hours and 1 minute to complete. You will navigate quiet country roads, stone forestry tracks, and grazed grassy upland paths, experiencing a mix of unpaved, gravel, natural, and asphalt surfaces. The trail features tough climbs and steep descents, leading you across heather-clad moorland with expansive views, especially from Pole Bank, the highest point on the Long Mynd.
Rated as difficult, this loop demands good to very good fitness levels due to its demanding climbs and descents. Be prepared for varied terrain; some paths can be loose and gravelly, and you might encounter singletrack sections. Inexperienced cyclists may find it necessary to dismount on particularly steep descents. The route starts from the historical market town of Church Stretton, providing convenient access to this rewarding journey.
As you cycle, keep an eye out for wild ponies and sheep roaming freely across the common land. The trail also passes through serene woodland areas like Rectory Wood and Townbrook Valley, and the popular beauty spot of Carding Mill Valley. You will traverse parts of The Portway, an ancient track along the crest of the Long Mynd, historically used by Neolithic traders. From Pole Bank, at 516 meters (1692 feet), you can enjoy impressive 360-degree panoramas, often extending into Wales on clear days, and even spot gliders from the nearby Midland Gliding Club.
5
riders
72.7km
04:41
790m
790m
The National Byway Church Stretton Loop offers a challenging touring cycling experience through the dramatic Shropshire Hills. You will navigate diverse terrain, from quiet country roads to well-made stone forestry tracks and even grazed grassy upland paths. Expect significant climbs and descents as you traverse the vast, whale-backed plateau of the Long Mynd and the distinctive, jagged volcanic crags of Caer Caradoc. This difficult 45.1-mile (72.7 km) route involves gaining 2580 feet (786 metres) in elevation, typically taking around 4 hours and 40 minutes to complete. The effort is rewarded with expansive panoramas across the Shropshire Plain and into Wales from elevated points.
Church Stretton serves as an excellent starting point for this touring cycling adventure, providing convenient amenities for your trip. You will find parking options, various cafes, restaurants, and accommodation facilities in the town. The route is generally signposted in one direction, typically anti-clockwise, which helps ensure a safer and more straightforward ride. Plan your visit to allow ample time to enjoy the journey and the services available before and after your ride.
This route stands out for its unique geological features and the sheer variety of landscapes it covers within the Shropshire Hills National Landscape. Beyond the physical challenge, you will encounter the striking volcanic crags of Caer Caradoc, a site with ancient hillforts, adding a layer of historical interest to your ride. The Burway Climb is a particularly notable section, offering some of the most rewarding views and a true test of your cycling prowess.
4.5
(2)
8
riders
39.9km
02:45
640m
640m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure with the Church Stretton loop from Craven Arms, a 24.8-mile (39.9 km) route through the dramatic Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This difficult ride, taking around 2 hours and 44 minutes, features a significant 2101 feet (640 metres) of elevation gain. You will navigate a mix of quiet country roads, stone forestry tracks, and grazed grassy uplands, with steep gradients around the prominent Long Mynd and the volcanic crags of Caer Caradoc, offering panoramic views across the Shropshire Plain.
Prepare for a demanding ride that requires very good fitness, as some segments may be unpaved and challenging. While the area offers a range of routes, this specific loop is considered hard. Consider an electric bike if you prefer assistance on the steeper sections. The region is highly rated by the cycling community, so you can expect a well-regarded experience.
This route immerses you in the natural beauty of the Shropshire Hills AONB, often called the "Gateway to the Marches." Beyond the ride itself, you can explore local attractions like Acton Scott Historic Working Farm or the Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre. The area is also known for unique experiences, such as observing gliders in action on the Long Mynd.
Details
Informations
Elevation 200 m
Weather
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Tuesday 16 June
21°C
13°C
48 %
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Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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