Cycling is one of the best ways to soak up the unspoilt landscapes and experience the unique features of the environment and villages of North Shropshire. It is ideal cycling terrain; quiet lanes and country roads, easy gradients and yet amazing views. These cycle routes have been chosen to suit a range of interests and abilities, the shortest route being 10 miles and the longest 29½ miles. Cycled over a day, with a picnic lunch or a stop at a local pub, this really is a great way to explore the area.
Ellesmere Cycle Rides Route 5: To West Felton, Ruyton XI Towns & Baschurch (10 mile)
This is the shortest route at 10 miles, with an option of 29½ miles and is suitable for more experienced cyclists as it includes some cycling on steep inclines and busy roads. En-route, you could enjoy a picnic at the canal near Lower Frankton or, if you choose to take the longer route, stop off for refreshments in the bustling villages of Ruyton-XI-Towns and Baschurch.
Places of interest:
Ellesmere
Ellesmere is the heart of Shropshire’s ‘Lake District’ and features a delightful glacial mere which attracts an abundant amount of wildlife. This pretty town boasts medieval streets, Georgian houses and half timbered buildings, and has hosted a weekly market since originally being granted a charter by Henry III in 1221. Whilst in the town, you could take the opportunity to visit the impressive church of St Mary or stroll along the towpath of the Llangollen canal, as designed by the legendary Thomas Telford.
Ruyton-XI-Towns
The origin of this villages name is said to date from the 12th century, when John le Strange, who held the manor of Ruyton, acquired two other local manors. This made Ruyton the major Manor of eleven nearby townships, and therefore ‘Ruyton of the Eleven Towns’.
Baschurch
Baschurch is centred around the Church of All Saints, which dates from the 13th and 14th centuries. It is believed a battle took place a mile or so north of the village of Baschurch where stands the ancient fortress now know as The Berth. More recently this site has been suggested as being the resting place of King Arthur!
Ride directions
Step 1
Leave Ellesmere along Brownlow Road (signed NCR Route 455). Turn right onto B5068. After passing the national speed limit signs, take the first left toward Crickett and Perthy (signposted Cycle Route 31). Follow the road towards Perthy, passing over a former railway bridge
Step 2
At the next T-junction turn left towards Ridge, Ellesmere and Oswestry
Step 3
In Perthy take the first right towards Ridge and Oswestry
Step 4
Take the second turning on the left (unsigned)
Step 5
At the T-junction with the A495 turn left and then first right towards Lower Frankton
Step 6
Follow the road over the canal, round to the left and then back over the canal. At the next T-junction turn right (unsigned).
Step 7
turn left at the T-junction, then take the second turning on the left and rejoin the longer version of this route
Step 8
Cycle past Hordley Church. At the T-junction turn right towards Tetchill and Ellesmere
Step 9
Follow the road through Tetchill and continue towards Ellesmere. Return to Ellesmere along Birch Road