Cycling UK unveils new multi-day cycle loop, linking eight heritage sites

Cycling UK has unveiled a new, multi-day cycle route, named Marcher Castles Way, connecting some of the best roads, bridleways and cycle paths the West Midlands and Wales has to offer.

The name of the route combines the medieval word for borderland with ‘castles’, highlighting the history of the four strongholds riders will pass that were built to battle the Welsh advances into England.

Crossing the English and Welsh border eight times, the full route starts in the Shrewsbury before taking in the Roman city at Wroxeter, the Ironbridge and crossing over Offa’s Dyke.

The route covers 180 miles (290km) and is best suited for a mountain or gravel bike.

Prehistoric and medieval ruins can be found along the route offering riders the opportunity to take in centuries of history on their adventure ride.

Despite being shorter than King Alfred’s Way, Rebellion Way and the Great North Trail, Marcher Castles Way covers several key valleys and hills with around 16,500ft (5,000m) of climbing.

Cycling UK has also developed shorter options to the main route, linking in with other existing cycleways and transport links, to provide riders with the option of doing three separate shorter loops, ideal for people only in the area for the weekend or building their confidence with off-road riding.

These shorter loops also offer a feel of the landscape and terrain, and just enough off-road to know what to expect on the full route.

Despite Marcher Castles Way not being formally waymarked, it does incorporate signposted paths such as the Jack Mytton Way for several sections and parts of the National Cycle Network.

Adventurers can download the route file to a GPS cycling computer or smartphone from the Cycling UK website.

Those downloading the route file will also receive a summary of the main safety and navigation tips along with guidance about respect for the countryside and historic monuments the route passes.

The printed guide for Marcher Castles Way will start shipping early 2025 with the full range of short loop options and suggested itineraries for the full route.

Sarah Mitchell, chief executive at Cycling UK, said: “Cycling UK’s new route, Marcher Castles Way, provides endless options for people looking to explore the West Midlands and Wales. Riders can choose to break up the loop into stages, use public transport to visit different points, or take on the challenge of the whole ride.

We know exactly what benefits come with cycling and we can’t wait to see and hear all the incredible stories that come from riders enjoying this epic route.”