Start: Shrewsbury
Distance: 290km/180-mile
Terrain: Roads, trails, off road
Bike Types: Mountain bikes, Hybrid, Gravel bike
Grading: Moderate / Challenging
The Marcher Castles Way cycle route is a 290km/180-mile cycle route consisting of of a variety of terrains including on road sections, gravel, farm tracks and rocky climbs and descents. The route starts in Shrewsbury along quiet lanes to Wroxeter and the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, Ironbridge. From here the route climbs Wenlock Edge giving the rider excellent views from Much Wenlock to the top of the Clee Hills before the descent into Ludlow and crossing into Wales at Presteigne.
The route continues further into Wales before turning back towards the Shropshire Hills where the terrains becomes challenging with climbs up Cordon Hill, Stiperstones, and Long Mynd giving the rider great views and spectacular descents. The route then continues to the spa town of Church Stretton and another climb at Caer Caradoc before heading back to Shrewsbury to complete the circle. Towns on the route include Shrewsbury, Wroxeter, Ironbridge, Wenlock Edge, Ludlow, Church Stretton, Newtown and Montgomery.
The Marcher Castles Way is best done on a mountain bike or gravel bike. It depends on rider preference. A MTB will give lower gears on the climbs whilst a gravel bike will be quicker on the roads and trails.
The Marcher Castles Way offers a good blend of challenge, reward and wonderful scenery. Constant hills and gradual climbs make it a challenging route and requires a good level of fitness. The route is usually done in 4 to 7 and consists of 5,200 metres of climbing.
Accommodation
Anton Guest House, Shrewsbury. Conveniently located a short walk from Shrewsbury town centre with free parking . Lots of shops, bars, cafés and restaurants.
Pelham Grove, Shrewsbury. For those arriving by car, we offer ample, safe, and secure off-road parking, with plenty of space for all of our guests.
The Talbot Inn, Much Wenlock. An ideal base from which to explore the ancient landscapes and townscapes of Shropshire.
Henwick House, Ludlow. Ideal for cyclists with Marcher Castles Way Cycle Route. Ideal for walkers rambling the Shropshire Way.
The Green Dragon, Ludlow. Perfect base for exploring. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
