4.4
(79)
1,378
riders
26
rides
Touring cycling routes around Selattyn And Gobowen traverse a diverse landscape on the Anglo-Welsh border, characterized by rolling hills and picturesque countryside. The region offers a mix of terrain, from the relatively flat Llangollen Canal towpaths to more demanding ascents in the Shropshire Hills. Cyclists can expect routes that provide expansive views across the Shropshire Plain and into the Welsh hills, integrating natural beauty with historical features. Notable features include the Dee Valley, Craig Sychtyn, and the UNESCO World Heritage…
Last updated: April 28, 2026
4.3
(4)
26
riders
44.4km
03:00
710m
710m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
24
riders
54.7km
03:41
840m
840m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(1)
16
riders
42.4km
02:28
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
18.4km
01:06
70m
70m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
49.7km
02:57
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Chirk Tunnel is a canal tunnel near Chirk, Wales. It lies on the Llangollen Canal, immediately northwards of the Chirk Aqueduct. It is 421 metres (460 yd) long and has a complete towpath inside. The tunnel is claimed to be the first in Britain to have a towpath running through it (along with its shorter neighbour, Whitehurst Tunnel). However, Berwick Tunnel on the Shrewsbury Canal was open by 1797 and included a towpath throughout its 970-yard (890 m) length. As the tunnel at Chirk is completely unlit, a torch/flashlight is necessary for anyone walking through the tunnel, as it is pitch black in the centre. A wooden handrail along the entire length prevents walkers from falling into the canal.
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no cyclevtrails other than the driveway up to castle but nice tearoom.
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Interesting to walk through and take a wander on the adjacent aquaduct
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Great little place. Helped me out with a new pedal when mine broke.
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Great bike shop at the Oswestry car park where you can get your bike fixed and serviced. Good café where you can talk to fellow cyclists. They also do a weekly cycle ride from here every Sunday morning.
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Whittington Castle is a castle in northern Shropshire, England, owned and managed by the Whittington Castle Preservation Fund. The castle was originally a motte-and-bailey castle, but this was replaced in the 13th century by one with buildings around a courtyard whose exterior wall was the curtain wall of the inner bailey. As a castle of the Welsh Marches, it was built on the border of Wales and England very close to the historic fort of Old Oswestry.
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There are 26 touring cycling routes around Selattyn and Gobowen, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These include 2 easy routes, 12 moderate routes, and 12 difficult routes, catering to various skill levels and preferences.
Yes, there are easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride. One such option is the Whittington Castle – Whittington Castle loop from Gobowen. This 18.4 km route features minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for families or those seeking a gentle introduction to touring cycling in the area. The Llangollen Canal towpath, mentioned in the region research, also offers flat, traffic-free sections suitable for easy cycling.
The region offers a varied landscape, from tranquil country lanes and rolling hills with panoramic views across the Shropshire Plain and into Wales, to more rugged terrain like Craig Sychtyn with its steep wooded banks. You can also experience the vibrant natural colors of the Dee Valley and unique ecological landscapes such as the Fenns, Whixall and Bettisfield Mosses National Nature Reserve.
Yes, many routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the The Mere at Ellesmere – The Boathouse loop from Gobowen, which takes you through tranquil settings around The Mere, and the The Last Inn – Glyn Climb loop from Gobowen, offering significant elevation gain through rolling hills.
The area is rich in history. You can cycle past or near impressive sites such as the ancient Offa's Dyke Path and the Iron Age Old Oswestry Hill Fort. The UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Chirk Aqueduct & Viaduct are also accessible, often via the Llangollen Canal towpath. Chirk Castle, a 13th-century Marcher castle, is another notable attraction with routes leading through or past its grounds.
The touring cycling routes in Selattyn and Gobowen are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging climbs to scenic canal paths, and the integration of natural beauty with historical landmarks.
Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Chirk Castle Gates – Chirk Tunnel loop from Gobowen offer substantial elevation gain, with over 840 meters of ascent over 54.7 km. This route also incorporates historical landmarks like Chirk Castle and the Chirk Tunnel, adding to the adventurous experience.
Yes, the region features several natural beauty spots. The The Mere at Ellesmere – The Boathouse loop from Gobowen takes you around the beautiful Mere at Ellesmere. Additionally, the nearby Fenns, Whixall and Bettisfield Mosses National Nature Reserve offers a unique ecological landscape, and the Llanymynech Rocks Nature Reserve is another point of interest.
Yes, the region's rolling hills and elevated points provide expansive panoramic views. You can expect stunning vistas from areas like Selattyn Hill and the Old Oswestry Racecourse. Routes around Craig Sychtyn also offer impressive views across to the Tanat Valley and the Berwyn Mountains, providing memorable scenic stops.
The varied landscapes of Selattyn and Gobowen can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, ideal for longer rides. While some routes might be accessible in winter, it's always advisable to check local conditions, especially on unpaved sections or higher elevations.
While the routes listed here are primarily day loops, the region is well-connected. The Llangollen Canal towpath, which features in several routes, is integrated into National Cycle Network routes 84 and 85, offering potential for longer journeys and connections to a wider network of cycling paths.
The region is dotted with villages and towns that often host cafes and pubs, providing convenient stops for refreshments. While specific establishments aren't detailed in the route descriptions, popular starting points like Gobowen and destinations like Ellesmere (with 'The Boathouse' mentioned) are good places to find amenities. Exploring the local villages along your chosen route will likely reveal suitable options.


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